Those who are pulled over under suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol will often be asked to take a BAC (blood alcohol content) test to determine if they are indeed over the legal limit for driving. In Maryland, this is .08 for most drivers. The BAC test is usually done on site with a breathalyzer, and Maryland drivers have already implied they will consent to this test at the moment of obtaining their driver’s license. Those suspected of a DUI (driving under the influence) charge will likely benefit from taking the test and contacting a DUI lawyer in Worcester County, MD as quickly as possible.
Maryland is an implied consent state. As mentioned before, when a person obtains their driver’s license, they automatically agree to take the BAC test if they are ever pulled over under suspicion of driving under the influence. If they do not take the BAC test when they are stopped, it doesn’t mean they’ll avoid a DUI charge; tas there are other ways for the officer to determine if the person was under the influence. Additionally, refusing to take the test is a 120-day license suspension the first time, and one year each time if it happens multiple times.
Typically, refusing to take the test can be used against them as the prosecution can argue they knew they would be over the legal limit and thus refused to be tested. However, if they take the test and it was over .08, and they hire a lawyer quickly, the lawyer might be able to prove the device was not operated properly, not properly calibrated, or for other reasons did not present an accurate result. This can end with the BAC test results being dismissed, which can help with having the charges dismissed.
It’s usually a good idea to go ahead and take the BAC test when required as there are consequences for not doing so, even if the person avoids a conviction. As soon as possible, however, the person will want to contact a DUI lawyer in Worcester County, MD to get the help they need for their case. This can help them avoid a conviction even if the BAC level was over the legal limit for Maryland. Those who need a lawyer can contact Ocean City Lawyer.
