If you've been pulled over while driving and a police officer requests that you take a breathalyzer test to determine your blood alcohol level, you are free to refuse.
However, in New York state, that means your driver's license will automatically be suspended for six months plus a fine of up to $500 will be assessed.
How can that be?
The above predicament results from a premise under law known as "implied consent".
New York's implied consent law states that any person who operates a motor vehicle in the state shall be deemed to have given consent to take a chemical test of one or more of the following: breath, blood, urine, or saliva, for the purpose of determining the alcoholic and/or drug content of the person's blood.
NY lawyer discusses NY's "implied consent" law:
What is Implied Consent in New York?
NY lawyer on the consequences of refusing to "blow":
DWI & DUI In New York: Should You "Blow" or Take a Breathalyzer if Arrested for Drunk Driving in New York
I was not Intoxicated. But have a prior record of dwi
At this point you should avoid posting to internet discussion sites, stop discussing this event with anyone BUT your attorney!
You have the right NOT to incriminate yourself, as well as the right to remain silent.
You should IMMEDIATELY fully avail yourself of those rights, in addition to the right to an attorney.
If you are convicted of another DWI, your life will be turned inside-out.
Your finances will be pilfered.
Your ability to drive LEGALLY has (or soon will be) taken from you.
Obtaining vehicle insurance will become extremely expensive, if NOT impossible.
You MIGHT be required to install (if you are legally allowed to drive in the future) an expensive and inconvenient "interlock" device.