Drunk Driving: How Can It Affect You?
The holiday season may be drawing to a close, but alcohol consumption doesn’t stop just because the festivities do. And unfortunately, many individuals in Maryland and across the country make the poor choice to drive after drinking.
Don’t be misinformed — drunk driving is a serious offense that can endanger the lives of yourself and others on the road. At Murphy, Falcon & Murphy, we have helped hundreds of clients in Baltimore and the nearby areas obtain legal assistance for auto accident cases that arose as the result of drunk drivers. This means we’re acutely aware of the long-term consequences, and today we’re doing our part to make sure you’re informed about what drunk driving is, how it can affect you, and the legal steps you can take if you’re involved in a drunk driving accident.
Drunk Driving: Know the Laws & Limits in Maryland
In Maryland, the legal intoxication limit is 0.08%. It is illegal to operate any motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription drugs. If you are caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of 0.08% or higher, you will be arrested and charged with a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated). You could also face other penalties such as fines, jail time, and a suspended license.
How To Keep Yourself Safe
To keep yourself safe, the most important (albeit obvious) thing to do is to make sure you are not drinking and driving. There are several steps you can take to ensure you do not get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. First, always have a designated driver. Make sure your designated driver is sober and well-equipped to take the wheel. Second, if you are drinking by yourself, plan ahead and make sure you have a ride home. There are many options such as ride-sharing services, public transportation, or having a friend pick you up. Finally, if you are hosting a party, ensure that all guests have a safe way home so you are not held responsible if an accident occurs.
How To Keep Others Safe
In addition to making sure you are not drinking and driving, it is also important to do what you can to keep others safe. If you see someone who is intoxicated, do not let them drive. Offer to call a cab or take them home yourself. Additionally, if you are on the road and you see someone who is driving erratically, get out of the way and report them to the police as soon as possible.
Steps To Take Following an Accident
If you are involved in an accident in which you or the other party was driving under the influence, there are several steps you should take. First, call 911 and stay on the scene until the police arrive. During their questioning process, remember that you have the right to remain silent, meaning you don’t have to answer any incriminating questions they ask you. Second, seek follow-up medical attention for anyone who is injured. Third, contact your insurance company and provide them with all the necessary information.
Finally, contact an experienced car accident attorney in Maryland who specializes in drunk driving cases. Make sure they have an established record of success and that they’ll advocate for your rights under the law. Murphy, Falcon & Murphy offers free consultations, during which we’ll walk you through your options and explain how you may be entitled to compensation if you were injured or your vehicle was damaged.
The dangers of drunk driving are real and can have serious consequences for everyone involved. If you’ve been on either end of a car accident due to drunk driving in Maryland, we encourage you to get in touch with our auto accident lawyers in Baltimore. We can provide you with the legal advocacy you need to get your life back to normal.