Maryland DUI laws just got tougher on October 1
Recently on our DUI forum a user asked, I live in the State of Maryland. I know that DUI laws are complicated. I also heard that some new laws have been passed. How is the common citizen supposed to understand and keep abreast of all the Maryland DUI laws if they are changing all the time?New Maryland DUI laws
You are right to be concerned. Laws change all of the time, and some drivers are charged and convicted for a criminal offense without ever knowing they were breaking the law. With that in mind, lets take a look at some Maryland DUI laws that will be instituted beginning October 1, 2016. Noahs Law and increased ignition interlock device usage The first law which has been passed and which is probably the most well-known is SB 945, also known as Noahs Law. This law was passed and signed by Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan on May 19, 2016. The bill, which was created after slain Montgomery County Police Officer Noah Leotta was killed by a driver on Rockville Pike while working as part of a holiday task force fighting drunk driving, is considered a big win for advocates against drunken driving. This law requires increased usage of ignition interlock devices by certain Maryland drivers. Advocates of this device argue that because the device prevents intoxicated drivers from starting their cars through an alcohol detection system, that it substantially reduces the risk of drunk driving. Under this law, drivers are required to participate in Marylands Ignition Interlock Program for the following convictions:- Driving under the influence of alcohol
- Driving while impaired while transporting a minor under the age of 16
- Driving while intoxicated with an initial breathalyzer test refusal
- Homicide or life-threatening injury by motor vehicle while DUI or DWI