Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog
Driving under the influence (DUI) often carries devastating consequences, including serious injury or death. The harm from a DUI accident is even more severe when the victim is a motorcyclist. Because motorcycles lack the same safety protections as other vehicles, motorcycle riders may suffer more severe injuries in a drunk driving accident. For that reason, it is all the more important to take steps to stay safe if you suspect a driver is operating their vehicle under the influence.
Recently, a news outlet reported that a motorcycle driver died in a DUI accident. According to the news article, the driver of a Kia was traveling northbound while under the influence when he struck a motorcycle. The car and motorcycle hit the median before they stopped on the left shoulder of the highway. The driver of the motorcycle was ejected from his motorcycle and died at the scene.
What Are the Penalties for Driving Under the Influence in Maryland?
Maryland imposes serious penalties for operating a vehicle under the influence. The state distinguishes between Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and Driving While Impaired (DWI). Motorists with a Blood Alcohol Concentration of 0.07% of higher will face a DWI conviction, while a BAC of 0.08% or higher could lead to a DUI conviction. Accordingly, the penalties for a DUI are more severe than a DWI. In Maryland, a DWI conviction can result in a $500 fine and up to two months in prison. A convicted DWI driver will also face a six-month license suspension. In Maryland, the penalties for drunk driving increase based on the number of DWI convictions on a person’s record. A second DWI offense carries up to a $500 fine and a one-year prison sentence, along with a license suspension between nine and twelve months. A DUI conviction carries a maximum of one year in prison and a $1,000 fine. A driver with a DUI conviction may also receive a six-month license suspension. A second offense could result in $2,000 in fines, up to two years in prison, and a one-year license revocation.
What Should You Do If You Encounter an Intoxicated Driver?
While not all accidents are completely preventable, you can follow a few safety tips to avoid an intoxicated driver. First, pay attention to your surroundings to determine if a driver is operating their vehicle erratically. Maintain a safe following distance and speed in case a driver swerves in between lanes or comes to a sudden stop. If you suspect a person is driving under the influence, immediately pull over. Attempting to pass an intoxicated driver may lead to a collision if the driver suddenly changes lanes or begins speeding. Instead, try to avoid the driver to the fullest extent possible. Once you have safely pulled over, report the driver to local authorities. An intoxicated driver places everyone else on the road in danger. Calling the authorities can help apprehend the driver and potentially save lives, including the life of the intoxicated driver.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland DUI Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Maryland DUI motorcycle accident, contact Lebowitz & Mzhen to discuss your case. The personal injury attorneys at our firm possess decades of combined experience serving clients throughout Prince George’s, Charles, Baltimore, and Montgomery County. We understand that motorcycle accidents often result in significant physical injury and personal hardship. The attorneys on our team will work diligently to help recover compensation on your behalf. For a free initial consultation, call our office at 800-654-1949.