As most residents of Maryland realize, drunk driving is a serious crime even if the only violation is an excessive blood alcohol content (BAC). Unfortunately, the neurological consequences of intoxication often lead to other serious crimes that compound the criminal charges that may be leveled against the person charged with DUI. A recent incident on I-695 in Baltimore demonstrates this phenomenon.
At about 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 20, 2020, Maryland state troopers from the Golden Ring Barrack received an alert concerning a three-vehicle crash on I-695 near the Dulaney Valley Road in Baltimore County. The officers first observed that the driver of a 2017 Hyundai Sonata struck two persons who were each attempting to replace flat tires on their respective vehicles. Further investigation revealed that the driver of the Hyundai appeared to be intoxicated.
The officers found that the Hyundai appeared to have drifted into the left shoulder where it struck both individuals and both vehicles. The Maryland State Police Crash Team is continuing the investigation of the accident. The driver of the Hyundai was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. Further charges, including assault with a motor vehicle are pending a conference between the investigating officers and the Baltimore County State’s Attorney.
The fact that two individuals who do not appear to have been at fault suffered physical injuries means that the allegedly intoxicated driver could be charged with assault. The exact nature of the charge will not be known until the prosecutor’s office makes a decision about the nature of the offense. If the defendant is charged with any crime beyond drunk driving that involves an assault, the defendant if convicted could face a significant period of incarceration and a substantial fine. Anyone facing similar charges may wish to consult an experienced criminal attorney for advice. A capable lawyer can evaluate the evidence, suggest potential defense strategies and, if appropriate, assist in negotiating a favorable plea agreement.