Every state may have a variations of laws that differ from other states. This is no different than those that apply to drinking and driving. Today we will discuss the laws that apply to citizens in the state of Maryland when drinking and driving.
First, let’s talk about the penalties of drinking and driving, or drinking under the influence, or driving while intoxicated. The State of Maryland prohibits drinking under the influence when your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. This is a standard level of BAC across the United States which considers the driver impaired. It is a little different for minors and commercial drivers who are driving under the influence. For minors, their BAC has to be under 0.02%, and has a zero tolerance policy for these minors which could result in a license suspension or revoking a license. A commercial driver must have a BAC under 0.04%.
But for drivers over the age of 21, it is not enough for you to be under the BAC level of 0.08%. Maryland has strict driving laws, and you can still be charged with a DWI (driving while impaired) which is having a BAC between 0.04% - 0.08%. So it may be best to not drink and drive! Here are some penalties for folks who are caught while drinking and driving:
For 1st Offenders: A DUI can land you up to a year in jail with up to a $1,000 fine and a 6 month license suspension. A DWI can give you up to 2 months in jail with up to $500 fine, and a 6 month fine.
For 2nd Offenders: A DUI can land you up to 2 years in jail with up to a $2,000 fine and are required to have an Ignition Interlock Device for their vehicle. A DWI can give you up to a year in jail, with a up to a $500 fine and a 1 year license suspension.
For 3rd Offenders: A DUI will land you up to 3 years in jail, with a $3,000 fine, and a 18 month minimum suspension of their license. A DWI has all of the same penalties, and will require an Ignition Interlock Device for the vehicle.
If you find yourself in a position where you’re in trouble with drinking and driving, be sure to call the Law Offices of Nicholas J. Del Pizzo today!