If you are a Maryland resident and have more than one DUI conviction, you should know that you have exited the “only one DUI” territory and entered a more serious space, because having more than one DUI conviction is serious, and the courts view it that way.
Let’s begin by breaking down the consequences of a first DUI. Even the first time, there are serious repercussions for operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
First DUI
The first time, the court may suspend your license, you may have to pay fines and you could spend time in jail. It all depends on the circumstances and the seriousness of the offense.
Second DUI
When you enter “multiple DUIs” territory, as you would with a second DUI, the court may look at the situation differently. The court may wonder why you did not learn the lesson the first time.
Courts in Maryland may take your license for longer periods of time, sometimes months or years. The possibility of going to jail increases significantly and you will have to pay thousands of dollars in fines.
Third DUI
If police catch you driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs for the third time, you can be in serious trouble. You can safely assume you will not be able to drive for a long period of time, jail time is likely and the fines you will have to pay are substantial.
In addition, after all of this, you will have a record that says police have arrested you and a court of law has convicted you three times for DUIs. This can affect every area of your life, from education to loans, housing, employment and any other part of life where someone may investigate your past.
Remember that the choices you make every time you get behind the wheel can affect you for years to come. If you have a DUI conviction, make sure you do not get another one, and take steps to avoid that from happening, because the consequences can truly be devastating.
The state is unforgiving of these crimes because they are avoidable and they show a lack of responsibility, which you should have if you are driving. It is not only your life that you are risking, but also the lives of drivers around you, passengers in your vehicle and pedestrians. Remember this before you get back on the road.