What to Do If You’re Stopped for DUI in Michigan?
Let’s be honest—no one plans to get pulled over for drunk driving.
But it happens.
And what you do (and don’t do) in those few minutes can make a huge difference in what happens next.
This isn’t about telling you to drive drunk. Don’t do that. Ever.
This is about protecting yourself if you find yourself in that situation. Because a DUI in Michigan isn’t just a ticket. It can wreck your record, your job prospects, your license, and even your freedom.
Here’s what you need to know.
1. Stay Calm and Be Polite
Your attitude can make or break this encounter.
✅ Don’t argue.
✅ Don’t mouth off.
✅ Don’t get defensive or aggressive.
Police officers write reports. Judges read them.
Acting belligerent or uncooperative will almost always come back to haunt you in court.
2. You Have the Right to Remain Silent
You don’t have to answer questions like:
✅ “How much have you had to drink tonight?”
✅ “Where are you coming from?”
You can politely say:
“I’d like to remain silent.”
Police will try to get you talking. They’re trained to look for slurred speech, contradictory stories, and admissions.
Anything you say can—and will—be used against you.
3. Hand Over License, Registration, Insurance
In Michigan, you do have to provide these documents when asked.
✅ Have them ready.
✅ Don’t fumble around too long—that can look suspicious.
But once that’s done? You don’t have to answer questions about your drinking.
4. Field Sobriety Tests Are Voluntary
Here’s something most people don’t know:
In Michigan, roadside field sobriety tests are voluntary.
✅ Walk-and-turn.
✅ One-leg stand.
✅ Horizontal gaze nystagmus (eye test).
You can say:
“I’d prefer not to do any field sobriety tests.”
There’s no legal penalty for refusing these.
But remember: if you refuse, they may still arrest you if they think they have probable cause.
5. PBT (Preliminary Breath Test) on the Roadside
This is the small handheld breath test they offer during the stop.
✅ Refusing it is a civil infraction (small fine, no points on your license).
✅ BUT it’s not a crime to refuse it if you’re over 21.
Refusing the PBT is very different from refusing the big test at the station.
6. Implied Consent: The Chemical Test at the Station
If you’re arrested for DUI, Michigan’s Implied Consent law kicks in.
✅ You must take the chemical test (breathalyzer or blood draw) at the station.
✅ Refusing this leads to a 1-year license suspension and 6 points on your record.
You can still be charged with DUI without that test, but you’ve now made things harder on yourself by losing your license automatically.
7. Don’t Lie or Make False Statements
Silence is golden. Lies are dangerous.
✅ Don’t make up stories.
✅ Don’t claim you’re sober if you’re not.
You have the right to remain silent. Use it.
8. Don’t Consent to a Search
If they ask to search your car?
You can say:
“I do not consent to any searches.”
If they have probable cause, they’ll do it anyway. But don’t give them permission.
9. After Arrest: Don’t Talk Without a Lawyer
If you’re arrested, don’t try to explain it away in the back of the cruiser or at the station.
✅ Ask for a lawyer immediately.
✅ Don’t answer questions until your lawyer is present.
Your best defense is not handing them extra evidence.
10. The Consequences Are Real
Michigan takes DUI seriously.
✅ Jail time—even for a first offense.
✅ License suspension.
✅ Fines and court costs.
✅ Points on your driving record.
✅ Higher insurance rates.
✅ Mandatory alcohol education.
✅ Possible ignition interlock device.
Repeat offenses? Harsher penalties. Felony charges possible.
The Bottom Line
If you’re facing a DUI charge in Michigan, don’t go it alone.
✅ Know your rights at the stop.
✅ Be polite but firm.
✅ Don’t talk your way into a conviction.
And after arrest? Call a lawyer.
Ready to Talk?
At Newburg Law, we help people navigate DUI charges with real-world advice and strong defense strategies.
✅ Honest answers.
✅ Knowledge of local courts.
✅ A plan to protect your record and your future.
📲 Contact us today if you’re facing a DUI charge. Don’t wait until it’s too late.