In Maryland, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol or while under the influence of a controlled, dangerous substance. Impaired driving is a serious offense and carries stiff penalties, including fines, loss of driving privileges, and even jail time.
It is essential to be aware of the laws and regulations in Maryland pertaining to impaired driving so that you can make informed decisions about when and how to travel safely.
Here are some crucial points you need to know about Maryland’s impaired driving laws.
1. It Is Illegal to Operate a Motor Vehicle While Impaired in Maryland
This includes driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a controlled dangerous substance. The legal limit for alcohol consumption is .08 grams per deciliter of blood and .05 grams per deciliter for commercial vehicle operators. If you are found to be driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher, you can be charged with driving while impaired.
2. Anyone Operating a Motor Vehicle Submit to a Chemical Test
Maryland law requires that anyone operating a motor vehicle submit to a chemical test of their blood, breath, or urine if requested by a police officer. Refusing to submit to a chemical test can result in the suspension of your driver’s license for up to 120 days and could be used as evidence in a criminal trial.
3. Maryland Has a Zero-Tolerance Policy for Drivers under the Age of 21
This means that if you are under 21 and are found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02 or higher, you can be charged with driving while impaired, even if your BAC is below the legal limit of 0.08.
4. Driving While Impaired Will Face a Mandatory Fine of $1,000, and up to One Year of Imprisonment
If you are convicted of a first offense of driving while impaired in Maryland, you will face a mandatory fine of $1,000 and up to one year of imprisonment. You may also lose your driver’s license for up to six months and be required to complete a substance abuse program. Subsequent offenses will result in more severe penalties, including longer jail sentences and higher fines.
5. Driving While Impaired May Be Required Installing an Ignition Interlock Device
If you are arrested for driving while impaired in Maryland, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle. An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer attached to the vehicle’s ignition system that requires a clean breath sample in order for the vehicle to start.
The device must be installed and maintained for the duration of the license suspension, which is typically six months.
6. Driving While Impaired Is a Serious Offense That Can Have Severe Consequences
If you are charged with driving while impaired, you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your rights and defend you against the charges.
Conclusion
Maryland impaired driving laws are strict and vital for public safety. It is essential to be aware of the laws and regulations in place to avoid hefty fines and other penalties. Waldorf Injury Lawyers z
It is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher, and it is essential to remember that this limit is lower for commercial drivers and drivers under the age of 21. They may face a fine of up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail.
Refusal to take a chemical test can automatically suspend your license, and repeat offenses can result in jail time. Additionally, it is illegal to drive under the influence of any drug, including both illegal and legal substances. Awareness of these laws is essential for staying on the right side of the law, being safe on the road, and avoiding costly penalties.
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