Michigan OWI Road Block

Over the past few years, you may have seen more than one Michigan OWI road block suddenly pop up at a nearby intersection or neighborhood road. Also known as sobriety checkpoints, these stops are designed to catch impaired drivers and prevent overall drunk driving. Unsurprisingly, as roadblocks become more and more common, the chance of encountering one also increases. While the process can be rather intimidating, knowing what to expect can help you if you are ever stopped at a Michigan roadblock.

Most OWI incidents occur late at night or very early in the morning. As a result, you are more likely to encounter roadblocks during these times. During a roadblock, the officers in charge will typically stop every other vehicle or use a similar pattern to check a random sample of drivers. If you are selected, the officer in charge may ask if he or she can search your vehicle. Although you may feel as if you must comply, it is important to know that you can refuse this request, as the officer has no probable cause to perform a search.

The officer may also ask you to step out of your vehicle to perform a field sobriety test, such as walking in a straight line, reciting your alphabet, or balancing on one foot. Once again, there are no legal grounds for this, so you have the right to politely decline the officer’s request.

Finally, the officer may ask you to take a breath test in order to determine your blood alcohol content (BAC). While you can refuse this test as well, be aware that you can be charged with OWI if you do not comply. This is due to the state’s Implied Consent Law, which requires drivers to submit to chemical testing if an officer requests a blood, breath, or urine test.

It is unclear whether roadblocks actually help prevent OWI, as recent studies by The National Highway Traffic Safety indicate that more arrests are made when an officer is patrolling. Despite this information, however, many police departments regularly perform sobriety checkpoints.

If you were recently charged with OWI after being stopped at a Michigan OWI road block, you should obtain legal representation as soon as possible. With over a decade of experience in OWI defense, attorney Patrick T. Barone is here to help. Contact Barone Defense Firm today for your free consultation. 

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