In today's world, it is important to remember how technology and the different types of social media can negatively hurt you. This is even more true for those who are facing a driving under the influence charge. Social media can now offer another perspective to law enforcement that can be used against you in your DUI defense.
There are so many types of social media and technology available that allow the user to engage with their family, friends, fans and the world at large. The intent for these platforms is to help create more connections and build bridges between people. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, live streaming channels, and many other types are a great way for people to stay connected and share information.
However, these same platforms also allow the world at large to get a front-row seat to any of your personal mistakes. Granted that is not their intent, but when people make mistakes on social media it seems that they instantly start trending and get a lot of negative attention. For example, a woman in Florida recently was driving under the influence of alcohol while using the social media platform Periscope. It is a live streaming platform where people can view the lives of the host in real-time. This woman was driving drunk and disclosed that on the live stream. The police were called by one of her viewers and were given the link to the stream. The police were then able to locate the woman because of the landmarks in the video. The authorities found her damaging property and her vehicle and made an arrest due to the social media video. The video evidence is incredibly incriminating and nearly guarantees that she will be charged with a DUI.
This example provides good insight into why social media can be a powerful tool for both positive influence but also negative as well. This woman was arrested due to her drunk driving and the proof of her drunken state was captured on a social media video. The social media also provided additional evidence that can be used to make her DUI charge stick. It is important to remember that social media can be a harmful tool when used improperly.
It is our goal that everyone who is responsible enough to get behind the wheel chooses to do so without the influence of alcohol. We also hope that people are not choosing to use social media while they are driving as this presents another safety risk. However, using social media can bring additional risks to those who are facing a driving under the influence charge. If you find yourself in a situation where you are facing a DUI charge and need an experienced DUI attorney contact us to learn how we can provide you with the wisdom, guidance, and counsel that you need in this trying time.