Drinking and driving can land you in hot water, even if your car isn’t moving. Many folks don’t realize that in Maryland, the law can slap you with a DUI even after you park your vehicle.
It’s a tricky situation that may catch many by surprise. Knowing the ins and outs of Maryland’s restrictions might save you from a world of trouble.
What counts as “driving” under Maryland law
In Maryland, you don’t have to be cruising down the highway to get a DUI. If the cops think you have physical control of your vehicle while you’re under the influence, you could be in for a rough night. This means the law could arrest you on suspicion of a DUI even if your car’s just sitting there.
Here’s what might get you in trouble:
- Keys in the ignition: This shows you could start driving anytime
- Sitting behind the wheel: Looks like you’re ready to hit the road
- Engine running: This suggests you may be about to take off
- Where you’re parked: On the street is worse than in a parking lot
These factors do not automatically mean you’ll face charges, but they don’t help your case. In the end, it may be up to the police to determine if you had control of your car.
If you’ve had a few too many, calling a cab or using a ride app is way smarter than trying to sleep it off in your car.
Factors that may influence a DUI charge while parked
A bunch of things can affect whether you’ll end up with a DUI charge. The time, how drunk you seem, and how you act when the cops show up all matter.
Even if you’re just trying to snooze until you’re sober, the police might still arrest you. The consequences can be brutal – fines, losing your license and maybe even jail time.
Knowing the DUI laws can help you stay out of trouble. If you do end up facing charges, seeking expert help might be your best bet to protect yourself and your future.