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Whats the difference between a DUI and DWI in Maryland?
Question:
Whats the difference between a DUI and DWI in Maryland?
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Maryland uses both the DUI and DWI designation for those caught driving while under the influence of some sort of intoxicant. The two designations refer to different thing and have consequences that vary as well.
In the case of DWI, the individual is being charged with "Driving While Intoxicated." This is the top alcohol related infraction. It refers to the fact that your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was found to be at .08% or higher. This has severe consequences attached to it in Maryland. The driver is automatically given 12 points, which is an immediate revocation of the person's license. The fine for a first offense of DWI is $1,000. A second offense is $2,000. These amounts added with court costs and the cost of hiring an attorney set the driver back a lot. Before he/she is done, the DWI charge can cost upward of $10,000.
A DUI "Driving Under the Influence," on the other hand is not quite as egregious an infraction, though still quite serious under Maryland law. A DUI is received when the driver is found to have a BAC between .04% and .07%. A DUI charge is generally the result of those who have a lower BAC level but nevertheless fail a field sobriety test. The officer dealing with the driver allowed a certain amount of leeway in his determinations. The penalty for a DUI is 8 points on the driver's record and a $500 fine. This is the same for both first and second offenses. Should jail time be necessary it ranges between 60 days for a first offense and as long as a year for a second offense.
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