ACP428 What To Do If You Are Pulled Over For A DUI?

As a career pilot, we try to protect our job through prudent planning, budgeting, and training. I often get asked questions about what to do when pulled over by the police to protect our pilot certificate and career. Should I take the sobriety test or not?

To help me answer this question Chris Pezalla is an attorney with the sponsor of this episode, the Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC. In addition to being an attorney, Chris is an airline pilot flying the Boeing 777 around the world.

Talking Points:

If I am pulled over and asked to take a sobriety test, what should I do?

Be professional and truthful. Anything you say can end up in a police report.

Always take the breathalyzer and blood tests. This advice is specific to pilots.

Failing to get a BAC alcohol level recorded will cost you your medical certificate.

Even if pleading guilty to the DUI, get a blood alcohol test.

14 C.F.R. § 61.15(e), which mandates that all Pilots, Flight Instructors, and Ground Instructors certified under FAR Part 61 to report any Motor Vehicle Action (MVA) related to drugs or alcohol to the FAA in writing within 60 calendar days.

The 60-day period begins when your driver’s license is suspended.

What is a roadside suspension?

Can I wait until after my court case to file the 60-day report? (No)

Considerations for Light Sport, BasicMed, and Class III medical.

Reporting on your next and all future medical applications.
This is not the end of your career.

Links:
www.strumorlaw.com
https://www.strumorlaw.com/Resources.asp

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