Learning Your Rights in a No Refusal Zone
While Missouri state law deems that drivers have consented to blood tests while suspected of driving drunk under its "implied consent" law, you may refuse to submit to the test. If you do refuse, a police officer could file a search warrant to draw your blood. However, what happens if you’re pulled over in one of Missouri’s No Refusal Zones?
Missouri’s No Refusal Zones: Explained
No Refusal Zones were created to combat the common practice of drivers refusing field sobriety tests, police and prosecutors gaining less evidence, and defense attorneys aggressively fighting their client’s rights.
A Missouri police officer can obtain a search warrant for a blood alcohol test in a No Refusal Zone almost automatically after a driver refuses a breathalyzer. The difference in procedure here is how quickly a cop can expedite their request to draw blood.
Where are there No Refusal Zones in Missouri?
Before this measure was enacted, St. Louis officials noted that the refusal rate for a field sobriety test was almost 50%. In addition to St. Louis, Greene County Christian County, Franklin County, and St. Charles Country have implemented No Refusal Zones.
Contact Our Experienced Springfield DUI Lawyer Today
If you’ve been forced to take a blood test after being accused of driving drunk, an experienced Missouri DWI lawyer can help defend your case and protect your rights. At Cole & Martin Attorneys at Law, LLC, we take every case extremely seriously and want you to feel prepared and confident when facing your charges.
Our attorneys answer any questions, address your concerns with honesty, and provide you with your legal options to pursue a favorable outcome. To book your free consultation, contact our team today by calling (417) 213-5441 or filling out our online form.