Category Archives: Field Sobriety Tests
Factors that affect blood alcohol content level
There are many different factors that can affect how quickly a person’s blood alcohol content rises after drinking alcohol. In Maryland, and in all other states in the U.S., it is illegal for drivers to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol content level at or above 0.08, states the Governors Highway Safety Association…. Read More »
Studies show breath tests are not always accurate
Breath test devices may not always give accurate BAC results, which could result in an erroneous DUI conviction. Although having a few drinks when going out to dinner is not illegal in Maryland, driving while intoxicated is against the law. People who are suspected of drinking and driving may be pulled over by a… Read More »
Maryland may soon have some of the toughest DUI laws
A bill that would expand Maryland’s ignition interlock program to all DUI offenders has passed the House of Delegates. The Maryland House of Delegates recently passed House Bill 1342 in a unanimous vote, paving the way for the state to soon see a major increase in penalties for people convicted of impaired driving, according… Read More »
Counties throughout Maryland increase sobriety checkpoints for holidays
Field sobriety checkpoints were deemed legal by the Supreme Court in 1990. Maryland officials are planning on using these checkpoints during the holidays. Tis the season to be merry — for many, this can mean enjoying holiday parties with loved ones, friends and colleagues. Unfortunately, it can also mean spending time at a sobriety… Read More »
Three common defenses to drunk driving charges in Maryland
Those facing DUI charges have options. Getting charged with driving under the influence (DUI) is an intimidating occurrence. Those who find themselves facing these charges may be tempted to rush through the process on their own, hoping to get a “good deal” and move on with their lives. Before agreeing to anything, it is… Read More »
Bill proposes stricter ignition interlock laws for MD drunk drivers
A new bill in Maryland would require all drivers convicted of drinking and driving to use an ignition interlock device. According to WBOC16, the Maryland General Assembly is currently looking at a bill that would strengthen the penalties convicted drunk drivers in the state face. If this bill is passed, those convicted of drunk… Read More »
What happens after a Maryland driver refuses to take a breath test?
After refusing a breath test, drivers have a certain period of time to request a hearing and defend why their license should not be suspended. In Maryland, it is illegal for drivers to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol content level at or above 0.08, states the Governors Highway Safety Association. If a… Read More »
Field sobriety tests aren’t always accurate
Field sobriety tests are commonly used among law enforcement to catch drunk drivers, but their accuracy has been disputed. Now that school has started again, many students in Maryland have reason to celebrate. Sporting events, college parties and reconnecting with friends can be exciting, as well as the promise of a fresh new academic… Read More »
How reliable is the walk-and-turn test?
If you’re pulled over for a traffic stop and the officer suspects that you’ve been drinking, you’ll likely be asked to take a variety of roadside sobriety tests. One of these is called the walk-and-turn (WAT) test — which requires you to walk a straight line, heels touching toes, and turn without losing your… Read More »
What are the 3 field sobriety tests sanctioned by the NHTSA?
Police or patrol officers often use formal and informal field sobriety tests to help them determine if the driver of a motor vehicle is impaired. The Breathalyzer is a formal test that measures the amount of alcohol in a driver’s breath. In Maryland, a person who registers over the legal limit of .08 blood… Read More »