Towson Drug DUI Defense Lawyer

Attorney Defending Against Drug DUI Charges in Towson, Maryland

Maryland law takes driving under the influence of drugs very seriously, and the penalties for a conviction can be severe, including hefty fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. Being arrested for DUI in relation to drug use in Maryland can be an overwhelming experience. In this situation, you may face uncertainty about how to proceed, and you may be concerned about the potential consequences of a conviction and the ways they could impact your life.

When dealing with charges related to intoxicated driving, having a skilled DUI defense attorney on your side is crucial. Attorney Kirk Seaman has been recognized by his peers and colleagues as an experienced, aggressive, and trustworthy advocate, and he can provide you with invaluable guidance and help you craft a strategic defense to protect your rights and your future. To build a successful strategy for defense against a drug DUI charge, call 410-837-6077 today to discuss your legal options with our team.

Common Drugs Associated with DUI in Maryland

While alcohol remains a leading reason people are charged with intoxicated driving, drug-related DUIs are becoming increasingly common in Maryland. The substances involved in these cases vary, but they may include:

1. Marijuana: Despite the legalization of marijuana in Maryland, driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal. Marijuana use can impair a person's motor coordination, reaction times, and judgment, all of which are critical for safe driving.
2. Prescription Medications: Certain prescription drugs, even when they are taken as directed, can impair a person's ability to drive. Common medications that may lead to DUI charges include painkillers, sedatives, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications. Drugs like oxycodone, benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax or Valium), and sleep aids (e.g., Ambien) are particularly notable for their potential to impair driving abilities.
3. Illicit Drugs: Illegal substances such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and LSD can severely impair a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. These drugs often cause extreme intoxication, leading to erratic driving behavior that can result in traffic stops and subsequent DUI charges.
4. Over-the-Counter Medications: Even certain medicines taken to address cold and flu symptoms, such as those containing diphenhydramine (found in Benadryl), can cause drowsiness and impair driving. Drivers may not realize that taking these medications before driving could lead to a DUI charge. The combination of certain medicines with alcohol can also lead to intoxication and DUI arrests.

How Police Test for Drug DUI in Maryland

In Maryland, law enforcement officers use a combination of observational techniques and scientific tests to determine whether a driver is under the influence of drugs. The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Traffic Stop and Initial Observations: A police officer may stop a vehicle if they observe erratic driving behavior or other signs of impairment, such as swerving, speeding, or failing to obey traffic signals. During a traffic stop, the officer will be looking for any signs of drug impairment, such as bloodshot eyes, dilated pupils, slurred speech, or an unusual smell in the vehicle.
2. Field Sobriety Tests: If the officer suspects drug use, they may ask the driver to participate in field sobriety tests. The purpose of these tests is to gauge the driver's level of intoxication based on their balance, coordination, and cognitive function. Typical field sobriety tests consist of the walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, and horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) evaluations. Although these assessments are commonly used to detect alcohol impairment, they may also be used to identify signs of drug influence.
3. Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Evaluation: In some cases, a specially trained officer known as a Drug Recognition Expert may be called to the scene of a traffic stop or to a police station to conduct a more thorough evaluation. The DRE will typically conduct a 12-step evaluation, which includes physical examinations, interviews, and tests to determine whether a driver is impaired due to the use of drugs, and if so, what category of drugs may be involved.
4. Chemical Testing: Maryland law permits the use of blood, urine, or saliva tests to detect the presence of drugs in a driver's system. These tests are usually conducted at a police station or hospital after the driver has been arrested. Unlike alcohol testing, which can be conducted with a breathalyzer, drug testing typically requires a blood or urine sample, which is then analyzed in a laboratory for the presence of drugs.

Challenging a Drug-Related DUI Accusation

Defending against a drug DUI charge in Maryland requires a thorough understanding of the law and the scientific principles underlying drug testing. Our team will challenge the reliability and accuracy of field sobriety tests, the procedures followed during the arrest, and the validity of any chemical tests administered. It may be argued that the substances detected did not impair the driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. Every situation is unique, and the best defense strategy will depend on the specific facts and circumstances of the case.

Contact Our Towson, MD Drug DUI Attorney

If you are facing a drug DUI charge in Maryland, it is crucial to act quickly to protect your rights. A DUI conviction can have lasting effects on your life, including your driving privileges, employment opportunities, and personal reputation. Attorney Kirk Seaman can provide the legal support you need, advocating on your behalf and striving to secure the best possible outcome in your case. Call 410-837-6077 today or contact us to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how our firm can assist you in navigating this challenging legal situation. Your future is too important to leave to chance—get the legal help you need today.