Cleveland Workers Compensation Lawyer Blog

In recent years, most state and local governments have tightened, and more aggressively enforced laws pertaining to driving and alcohol consumption. Prosecution of those charged is more rigorous, and the prescribed penalties more painful. The stiffer laws enjoy public support, and there’s little reason to believe that the current trend won’t continue.

The best way that a motorist can protect themselves from the horrors of an alcohol impairment charge is to never drink anything within two or three hours of getting behind the wheel. Even very low levels of consumption can lead to arrest and conviction under Maryland laws. It’s even more important to avoid alcohol in any quantity when driving at night. Enforcement personnel are more alert to the smallest driving or automobile irregularity after dark. They’re more likely to make a pull-over for somewhat trivial matters, then gather evidence of alcohol use. Any alcohol aroma or watery eyes will inevitably lead to formal tests—tests that can lead to major problems

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious charge in Maryland, and in Howard County. Drivers tested for alcohol consumption will be charged with DUI if their blood alcohol content (BAL) registers .08 or above. A reading of less than .08 won’t necessarily get you off the hook. Maryland laws allow drivers to be charged with Driving While Impaired (DWI) if their BAL registers more than .01 and less than .08.

The penalty for DUI in Maryland, is a fine of up to $1,000, and can lead to a year in jail. The lesser offense of DWI carries a maximum fine of $500, and not more than 90 days in jail. These are serious penalties, and can have far reaching impacts on a person’s life and livelihood that extend well beyond the legal punishment. Drivers charged with DUI/DWI in Howard County should not delay seeking advice and counsel from a Howard County DUI lawyer.

Here’s some steps to follow for drivers who do get charged with DUI/DWI

1. Get the services of a Howard County DUI lawyer.

2. Get a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) hearing within 10 days of arrest to protect driving privileges while awaiting trial.

2. Enroll in an alcohol education program before your court date. It’s a good way of putting a positive spin on your case for the judge.

3. Remember that no one’s guilty until the judge pronounces it. Don’t let panic set in and prevent you from responding intelligently and logically.

Article by David Z., Associate Attorney at Shapiro & Mack - Howard County’s premier criminal defense firm. Dave Z., also competes in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, training at Baltimore MMA school, Crazy 88 bjj.