If you've been charged with a DUI, don't automatically accept the consequences, especially if you weren't actually under the influence. Police officers have a specific set of requirements to follow when they pull you over for a DUI. Those requirements don't always meet the criteria for a DUI conviction. But, many people are too afraid to fight the charges in court, or they don't know that they need to have attorney representation for their DUI charges. Unfortunately, that can lead to a wrongful conviction for DUI, which will stay on their record for years to come. If you've been charged with a DUI, hire an attorney right away, especially if you're not guilty. There are defenses you can use to fight the charges. Here are just four of them. 

You Weren't Behind the Wheel of the Car

If you weren't behind the wheel of a car when you were arrested for DUI, hire an attorney as soon as you can. If you were outside of your car, a police officer may have seen you acting as if you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you're unaware of your rights, you may accept the charges that are brought against you, especially if you were under the influence. But, if you weren't in the car, you weren't driving under the influence. If that's the case, you should talk to an attorney right away. 

You Have a Confirmed Medical Condition

If you were pulled over for a suspected DUI, and you failed the field sobriety test, don't let that convince you to plead guilty to the charges. This is especially important if you suffer from a confirmed medical condition. There are some medical conditions that can cause you to be unsteady on your feet. If that's the case, you might not be able to successfully complete the physical portions of the field sobriety tests. Talk to an attorney about your medical condition before you accept a plea for your DUI charges. 

You Just Can't Drive in a Straight Line

If you have a problem staying between the lines of your lane, fight those DUI charges. Many people have trouble driving in a straight line, especially new drivers, and the elderly. If that's the problem you have, it doesn't make you an unsafe driver. It also doesn't mean you're guilty of driving under the influence. If you just happen to have trouble with straight lines, an attorney can help you avoid a DUI conviction. 

You had Other Reasons for Red Eyes

If you've been charged with a DUI, the arresting officer may have used the condition of your eyes as a determining factor. If that's the case, now's the time to hire an attorney. There are other reasons to have red, watery eyes. This is especially true if you were in the middle of an emotional breakdown, or were experiencing an allergy flare-up. Before you accept a DUI conviction, discuss the cause of your red eyes with a DUI attorney.

For more information about how a DUI attorney can help you with your case, contact a local legal office.