If an officer pulls me over for a burnt out taillight or other similar problem, could I still go to jail for a Glen Burnie, MD DUI?

Everyone makes mistakes. Sometimes, drivers drink too much alcohol and get behind the wheel when they shouldn’t. A police officer may end up pulling them over for something that has nothing to do with drinking and driving, then discover they are intoxicated. Here, an Anne Arundel County drunk driving attorney discusses if you can receive a Glen Burnie, MD DUI during this traffic stop.

Receiving a DUI

It doesn’t matter why the officer pulls you over; if he or she thinks you are intoxicated you could go to jail. If there is reason to believe you have been drinking, the officer may then ask you to perform a field sobriety test or blow into a breathalyzer. If you blow above a .08 or display other signs of being under the influence, you may go to jail.

Signs of Intoxication

Upon pulling you over, the officer will pay attention to your behavior and look for other signs of drunk driving in Maryland. If your speech is slurred or your eyes are bloodshot, you may be suspected of being under the influence. Additionally, if you smell like alcohol, chances are high you will be asked to perform field sobriety tests.

What Should I Do?

If an officer suspects you are under the influence of alcohol, it is best to be polite and courteous. Any rudeness or disrespectful behavior may be held against you and make the Glen Burnie DUI situation worse. Instead, stay civil with the officer and it may help your case.

If you’ve received a Glen Burnie, MD DUI, your first call should be to your lawyer. An experienced Maryland DWI attorney can help you with your case and possibly make you feel better about your situation.

Give the law offices of Jimeno & Gray, P.A., a call at (410) 590-9401 to speak with a lawyer about your case. Request your free copy of the book The ABCs of DWIs in Maryland, written by lawyer Gregory Jimeno, when you call.