Blog: DUI/DWI

Aug 11, 2021

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) are often used interchangeably. However, in each state – including Maryland – there are often important differences between these two crimes. One such example is the sentencing that comes with a guilty verdict or plea, as there is an important distinction between the two. What are the penalty differences? DWI For DUI, the penalties are starker. You can be fined up to...

What factors affect your alcohol absorption rate and BAC

Jul 30, 2021

Many individuals get a DUI in Maryland because they don’t realize that their blood alcohol concentration is higher than the legal limit. There are some things that affect how quickly an individual absorbs alcohol. Here’s more information about some of the factors that affect an individual’s alcohol absorption rate and BAC. Medications Certain medications may affect how quickly someone is able to absorb alcohol as well as their BAC. Before an individual mixes...

What is reasonable suspicion for a DUI stop?

Jul 26, 2021

When it comes to most arrests, police need to have a warrant. However, this is not always the case. If an officer has reasonable suspicion to believe that someone is committing a crime, they may stop that individual without a warrant. This is the case when crimes are being committed and when police stop someone they believe is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Laws vary from state to state, but in states...

When you are pulled over at a DUI checkpoint

Jul 23, 2021

Being pulled over at a DUI checkpoint in Maryland can be stressful. Often, checkpoints are seen as an invasion of privacy. However, motorists are required to stop at them so that police can locate drunk drivers. They are normally situated in areas where there is a higher instance of accidents related to alcohol. It’s important to know what to expect after being pulled over at a sobriety checkpoint. What are the laws on drinking...

Can you get a DUI the day after you were drinking?

Jul 10, 2021

All states enact stiff penalties to reduce drunk driving accidents and keep roads safe. You may think you can avoid a DUI in Glen Burnie, Maryland, by sleeping it off. However, you can still get charged with a DUI the next day if you get pulled over by an officer. Overview of DUI laws Police officers commonly use Breathalyzers to check if individuals are driving above the legal limit for BAC, or blood...

May is boating safety month in Maryland

May 28, 2021

With the official start to Maryland’s boating season just days away, the Maryland Natural Resources Police is encouraging Marylanders to take proper precautions to ensure waterway safety. Last year, Maryland had 155 reportable boating accidents; 64 of those accidents caused injuries and six were fatal, resulting in a total seven deaths. These numbers are down from the previous year, when Maryland saw 144 reportable boating accidents, 65 injury accidents and 16 fatal accidents resulting...

Boating season 2021 could see a high number of BUIs, BWIs

May 14, 2021

Memorial Day is the start of the boating season for Maryland boat owners. And, this year, with the restrictions put in place because of the coronavirus ending, the season will be stronger than ever. That means a lot of watercraft will be on the waterways. Sailing or powerboating on a hot summer day often involves cold drinks including water, beer and wine. Although recreational boaters often drink while driving the boat, boating under the...

What is probable cause for a DWI in Maryland?

Feb 8, 2021

When a Glen Burnie area resident is pulled over for a DUI they can be scared and uncertain about their future. Everyone knows that a Reasonable suspicion In order for a police officer to pull someone over they must have reasonable suspicion. Swerving Weaving Erratic braking Driving above or below speed limit Drifting into other lanes Driving without headlights on Unexplained slowing or stopping...

How to challenge a breathalyzer test

Dec 28, 2020

Preparing a defense against drunk driving charges in Ocean City is important because so much is on the line when drunk driving charges are involved. Accused drivers should be familiar with their options, including how to challenge a breathalyzer test if they find themselves facing drunk driving charges because of a failed breathalyzer test. Breathalyzer test challenges Breathalyzer tests Proper training Administered according to training Breathalyzer test used on list...

As holiday season starts up, so do drunk driving incidents

Nov 11, 2020

As the holiday season starts up, it’s easy for drivers to find themselves in a position where they are drinking and driving. According to the National Highway and Safety Administration, drunk driving accidents increase during the holiday season. Starting Thanksgiving until New Year’s Day, there are more alcohol-related accidents than at any time of year. Nationally, over the past five years, 300 people on average died in drunk driving crashes the week between Christmas and...