While stopped at an OVI checkpoint, the officer might suspect that you are under the influence of alcohol and might choose to perform a field sobriety test. If they discover you are intoxicated, you might be charged with an OVI and face various punishments when convicted. You can receive typical penalties such as fines and prison time. But you might also be required to use an interlock device, and a GPS might track you.

GPS Tracking Devices

A GPS tracking device, also known as an ankle monitor, is meant as an alternative to harsher punishment. The court might limit where you are allowed to go. Your location is tracked 24/7. If you try to remove it or damage it, doing so will immediately send a message to law enforcement. A GPS tracking device aims to ensure you abstain from drug or alcohol use by restricting where you are allowed to go.

Ignition Interlock Devices

An ignition interlock device is another technology that prevents you from operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. Once installed in your car, you must breathe into the device to start the car. You might also be required to pull over periodically to breathe into the machine. It will behave like a breathalyzer and detect whether you have consumed alcohol.

How to Avoid Harsh Penalties

The punishments for an OVI are very harsh and can significantly impact your life. Therefore, if you think you are not guilty of an OVI after you underwent a field sobriety test at a checkpoint, an OVI attorney can help you build a solid case.

One of the problems with field sobriety tests is that they are often not objective. In many cases, if the officer believes that you are already guilty, the field sobriety test only exists to build further evidence that you are intoxicated.

The Legality of the Checkpoint

The checkpoint must also be carried out lawfully. For example, the police must inform the public that they will establish a checkpoint before doing so. The police are also required to carry out the checkpoint so that they do not show bias. For instance, they do not have to stop every vehicle but must stop vehicles in a pattern that does not show prejudice.

Stopping every third vehicle is an example of a pattern that doesn't show bias. However, if your OVI attorney believes that the police did not conduct the checkpoint legally, this fact could assist you during your legal case.

Talk to an OVI defense lawyer for more information.