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Every year, many people miss out on potential compensation because they fall victim to myths about taking legal action. Whether you’ve been injured in a car accident or your loved one was hurt due to medical malpractice, understanding the realities of filing a lawsuit in Maryland is important. Misconceptions can prevent people from asserting their rights and receiving the justice they deserve. In this blog, we’re clearing up some of the most common myths about filing a lawsuit in Maryland so you can feel confident about your next steps.

Myth 1: Filing a Lawsuit in Maryland Means You’re Going to Court

One of the biggest misunderstandings is that filing a lawsuit in Maryland automatically means a lengthy trial. In reality, many lawsuits are settled out of court through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration. While it’s true that some cases go to trial, your attorney will work to get you a fair resolution without needing a courtroom battle. If your case does end up in court, our legal team will prepare you every step of the way.

Myth 2: There Is No Rush to File a Lawsuit

Another common myth is that you can file a lawsuit whenever it’s convenient for you. Unfortunately, Maryland law imposes strict deadlines known as statutes of limitations. For example, in most personal injury cases, you have three years from the date of the incident to file a claim. Missing these deadlines could mean losing your right to compensation forever. If you’re considering filing a lawsuit in Maryland, it’s best to speak to an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Myth 3: Only Cases with Lots of Damages Are Worth Filing

Some people think they need to have a massive injury or millions of dollars in financial losses to justify legal action. However, that’s not true. Filing a lawsuit in Maryland can be appropriate even if the damages seem “small” at first. Whether it’s a minor car accident or a slip-and-fall accident that left you out of work for a couple of months, your case still matters. The harm you’ve suffered deserves recognition and possible compensation.

Myth 4: You Don’t Need the Help of an Attorney

Some people believe they can manage the legal process on their own. Technically, you can file a lawsuit without a lawyer, but it’s rarely a good idea. Filing a lawsuit in Maryland requires an understanding of state laws, legal procedures, and court deadlines. Even small mistakes in filing paperwork or presenting evidence can hurt your case. A skilled Maryland attorney will ensure your claim is properly prepared and increase your chances of success.

Myth 5: Lawsuits Are All About the Money

Another myth about filing a lawsuit in Maryland is that it is just about financial gain. While compensation is often one piece of the puzzle, lawsuits are also about holding individuals, companies, or institutions accountable. They help prevent future harm, improve safety standards, and promote fair treatment. Filing a lawsuit can also help you get emotional closure or spark changes in policies that will help prevent others from going through what you went through.

Myth 6: The Process Takes Years

While some legal cases are complex and take time, not all lawsuits drag on for years. Many are resolved in months, especially if both parties are open to settlement. Filing a lawsuit in Maryland does not mean you’re automatically locked into a years-long ordeal. Your case’s timeline will depend on the nature of the case, the evidence available, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. A good attorney can help move things along efficiently.

Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your Legal Needs

If you were injured in an accident, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.

In 2025, using social media is second nature for most people. While it can be fun to post photos, share updates about your life, and comment on the world, what you post online could become a focal point of your personal injury case. When you’re involved in any legal situation, an innocent post could end up doing more harm than good. Whether you’re posting a selfie or checking in at a location, here are some of the ways that your social media activity could impact your personal injury case.

Private Posts Aren’t Always Private

Many people assume that their privacy settings protect them, but in a personal injury case, that’s not necessarily true. Defense attorneys and insurance companies may scour your public profiles for evidence that can be used to challenge your claim. Even private posts can sometimes be subpoenaed during the discovery process. A photo, video, or comment on a public profile that you thought was harmless might be twisted to suggest that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claimed.

For example, imagine receiving a severe back injury in a car accident. During your personal injury case, you post a picture that shows you lifting up your niece or playing sports. Even if the image doesn’t tell the full story, it could be used to raise doubts about the severity of your back jury and put your case in jeopardy.

Social Media Can Contradict Other Evidence

Consistency is key in any personal injury case. Your statements to doctors, lawyers, and the court must align with what you do and what documentation you provide to the court. If you are making claims that concern emotional distress or physical limitations, remember that insurance companies can take advantage of smiling photos of you on vacation or enjoying nights out with friends.

Insurance adjusters may argue that your upbeat posts contradict your claims of pain, suffering, or reduced quality of life. It doesn’t matter that social media often only shows the highlights of your life and moments where you feel happiest. Perception can make a huge impact on your case, and photos and videos that could be twisted by an insurance company can create a false picture of what your life is really like.

Tagging and Check-Ins Can Jeopardize Your Case

It’s not just your own posts that matter during a personal injury case! If your friends tag you in photos or check you in at locations, it can also create problems. For example, your friend might tag you in a post at a hiking trail or in a photo of you attending a party. Even if you were only present for a short time and didn’t engage in strenuous activity, it may cast doubt on your physical limitations or emotional distress.

To protect your personal injury case, it’s a good idea to ask friends and family not to tag you in posts or photos while your claim is pending. Depending on what social media platforms you are on, you can also disable tagging features and further limit who can see your online activity.

Our Best Tips for Navigating Social Media During a Personal Injury Case

If you’re currently involved in a personal injury case, here are some tips for navigating social media:

• Set all of your profiles to private. While this doesn’t make your posts completely safe, it adds a layer of protection.
• If possible, avoid posting at all until your case is resolved.
• Let family and friends know about your situation so they avoid posting about you or tagging you in photos, videos, or check-ins.
• Don’t delete old posts from your social media profiles. Deleting content after a case is filed could be seen as destroying evidence, which could hurt your claim.
• Don’t discuss your case online. Avoid posting about your accident, injuries, treatment, or legal proceedings. You never know what small statement could come back to haunt you in the future!

Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your Legal Needs

If you are involved in a personal injury case or you have questions about your rights after an accident, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.

It is estimated that 14% of drivers, or approximately one in seven, drive without insurance. Unfortunately, just like drivers with insurance, these motorists can get involved in accidents that do permanent damage to vehicles and the people in them. If the other party in your car accident case is an uninsured driver in Maryland, what are your options? Is it still possible to receive damages? Here’s what everyone should know.

Why Are Uninsured Drivers So Dangerous?

Despite Maryland law requiring all drivers to carry auto insurance, some individuals still operate vehicles without coverage. Whether due to financial hardship, negligence, or other issues, an uninsured driver in Maryland puts others at serious risk. Additionally, uninsured drivers create more complications in the aftermath of an accident. If a driver without any insurance causes a crash that injures you, recovering compensation is more complicated because you cannot simply call their insurance provider to start the process.

Can Your Own Insurance Company Help?

Maryland law requires all auto insurance policies to include Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This coverage is designed to protect you if you’re hurt by an uninsured driver in Maryland or a hit-and-run motorist who can’t be identified. UM coverage typically includes both bodily injury and property damage. When you file an uninsured motorist claim, you are essentially making a claim against your own insurance company for damages that would have otherwise been paid by the at-fault driver.

While you may think your own insurance company will automatically be on your side, that isn’t always the case. Insurance companies often look for ways to reduce payouts, even for their own policyholders. That’s why, if you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver in Maryland, it’s critical to work with an experienced personal injury attorney. Your lawyer can help you with every step of the process, including everything from filing paperwork to preparing for arbitration. Don’t make the mistake of assuming your insurer will offer a fair amount without legal intervention.

Can You File a Lawsuit Against an Uninsured Driver?

Yes, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against an uninsured driver in Maryland. However, this route can lead to limited recovery. Most uninsured drivers lack financial assets or the ability to pay for your damages, which is often the reason they are uninsured in the first place. In some cases, a court may award you compensation, but actually collecting that money is another matter. Working with an attorney will help you ensure that you are pursuing options that lead to the best outcome possible, whether that is moving forward with a personal injury lawsuit or working with your own insurance company.

Why Is Working with an Attorney So Important?

If you’ve been injured by an uninsured driver in Maryland, don’t try to navigate the legal and insurance systems alone. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights, build a strong claim, and fight for the compensation you deserve. We’ve helped countless accident victims recover damages in difficult and complex cases, including those involving uninsured drivers in Maryland.

Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your Legal Needs

If you were injured in an accident, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.

There are over 100,000 car accidents in Maryland every year, and being involved in one of them can be scary and overwhelming. Because of all the stress involved, it’s easy to make mistakes that could hurt your chances of receiving compensation for your injuries. Whether it’s failing to gather evidence, not seeking medical attention, or speaking with the insurance company too soon, knowing what mistakes to avoid after a car accident can help protect your rights.

Not Calling the Police

One of the biggest mistakes to avoid after a car accident is not calling the police. A police report is crucial in documenting the details of the accident, including witness statements and the officer’s assessment of the scene. Without an official report, proving liability can be more challenging if you pursue a personal injury claim.

Admitting Fault at the Scene

It’s natural to feel shaken after an accident, but one critical mistake to avoid after a car accident is admitting fault. Saying “I’m sorry” or speculating about what happened could be used against you later. Instead, stick to the facts when speaking to the other driver, police, and your insurance company.

Not Seeking Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine after an accident, failing to get medical attention is a common mistake to avoid after a car accident. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not be noticeable immediately because of the adrenaline running through your system. A medical evaluation will ensure your injuries are documented.

Not Gathering Evidence at the Scene

If you’re able to do so safely, collect as much evidence as possible at the accident scene. Take photos and/or videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses too!

Talking with the Other Driver’s Insurance Right Away

Another major mistake to avoid after a car accident is speaking with the other driver’s insurance company before consulting a lawyer. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to make statements that could weaken your claim. An experienced Maryland personal injury lawyer can help you protect your interests.

Accepting the First Settlement Offer

Many insurance companies offer quick settlements to close a case before the full extent of your injuries is known. Accepting an early offer without consulting a lawyer is a costly mistake to avoid after a car accident. Once you accept a settlement, you typically can’t seek additional compensation later, even if your medical expenses continue to rise.

Waiting to File a Lawsuit

In Maryland, there is a statute of limitations of three years for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident. Waiting too long could result in losing your right to seek compensation. It’s best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Posting on Social Media

Social media can be used as evidence in your case, and one common mistake to avoid after a car accident is discussing the crash online. Even innocent posts about your activities could be misinterpreted and used to dispute your injuries.

Not Following Your Doctor’s Advice

Failing to follow medical advice is another mistake to avoid after a car accident. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries aren’t severe if you miss doctor’s appointments or don’t follow prescribed treatments. Stick to your treatment plan to ensure the best possible recovery and protect your case.

Not Hiring an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer

One of the biggest mistakes to avoid after a car accident is trying to handle your claim alone. Insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to minimize payouts, and without legal representation, you may not receive fair compensation. A skilled Maryland personal injury lawyer can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your Legal Needs

If you were injured in an accident, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.

When you suffer an injury due to someone else’s negligence, one of the ways to seek compensation is through a personal injury case. While medical expenses and lost wages are relatively easy to calculate, determining the value of pain and suffering is more complicated. Understanding how pain and suffering are calculated can help you ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages.

What Is Pain and Suffering?

While many people are familiar with the term “pain and suffering” in the context of a personal injury case, most don’t understand what it means and how it is calculated. Pain and suffering refer to the physical and emotional distress experienced due to an injury. This includes not only the immediate pain caused by the injury but also long-term effects like chronic pain, mental health challenges, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Unlike medical bills, which have a clear financial value, pain and suffering are subjective and require careful evaluation.

How Can Pain and Suffering Be Calculated?

There is no one perfect formula for calculating pain and suffering in a personal injury case. However, attorneys and insurance companies typically use two methods: the Multiplier Method and the Per Diem Method.

The Multiplier Method

The Multiplier Method calculates pain and suffering by multiplying the total economic damages (like medical bills and lost wages) by a number typically ranging from 1.5 to 5. The severity of the injury determines the multiplier. For example, they might use 1.5-2 for minor injuries and 5 for serious injuries with lifelong consequences.

For example, if your medical bills and lost wages total $50,000 and a multiplier of 3 is applied, your pain and suffering damages would amount to $150,000, bringing your total compensation to $200,000.

The Per Diem Method

The Per Diem Method assigns a daily rate to your pain and suffering and multiplies it by the number of days you were affected. This method is often used for short-term injuries with a clear recovery period. For example, if the daily rate is $200 and you take 180 days to recover, your pain and suffering damages would be $36,000.

What Factors Can Influence Pain and Suffering Compensation?

Since pain and suffering are subjective and not the same for everyone, several factors influence how they are calculated in a personal injury case. Some of the things considered include:

• Severity of the Injury: More serious injuries generally result in higher compensation to reflect their seriousness.
• Impact on Daily Life: If the injury prevents you from working or enjoying daily activities, your compensation may be higher.
• Length of Recovery: The longer it takes you to recover, the greater the compensation you will often receive.
• Medical Treatment Required: Surgeries, physical therapy, mental health treatment, and long-term care can increase the value of your pain and suffering.
• Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health issues can increase the amount awarded.
• Strength of Evidence: Medical records, expert testimony, and personal accounts will all strengthen your claim.

Is There a Limit to Pain and Suffering in Maryland?

In Maryland, there is a cap on non-economic damages, including pain and suffering, in a personal injury case. As of early 2025, this cap is $950,000 for personal injury claims, and it typically increases every year. In cases involving wrongful death with multiple beneficiaries, the cap is higher. Understanding these limits is essential when pursuing compensation.

Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your Legal Needs

If you were injured in an accident, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to working with insurance companies. Knowing how to communicate effectively and protect yourself can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. How can you avoid the most common mistakes that many drivers make?

Safety First

Before contacting your insurance company, ensure your safety and the safety of others at the scene. Call 911 if necessary and seek medical attention for any injuries. Your health comes first! If it is safe to do so, document the scene by taking photos or videos of the vehicles, damage, license plates, weather conditions, and the surrounding area. Collect contact information from witnesses and the other driver(s), including their insurance details. This evidence can be critical when dealing with insurance adjusters.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Most insurance policies require you to report accidents promptly. Contact your insurer as soon as possible to inform them of the incident. Provide basic details about the accident, but avoid giving lengthy or detailed recorded statements until you’ve consulted with an attorney. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault or liability. The words that you say can and will be used against you later.

Work with an Experienced Attorney

Navigating the insurance claims process can be challenging, especially when dealing with significant injuries or disputes over fault. An experienced personal injury attorney can protect your rights throughout your car accident claim, handle communications with insurance companies, and negotiate on your behalf to secure fair compensation.

Never Assume Insurance Is On Your Side

If the other driver’s car insurance company contacts you, be cautious about what you say. Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but their goal is to minimize the payout for your car accident claim. You are not obligated to provide a recorded statement or extensive details to the other driver’s insurer without legal guidance. Politely decline until you have consulted your attorney.

Additionally, even if you believe you may have contributed to the accident, avoid admitting fault to either car insurance company. Determining fault is a complex legal matter that involves examining evidence and laws, and the confusion of a car accident can lead some drivers who are definitively not at fault to wrongly admit guilt. Admissions of fault can jeopardize your claim and reduce your compensation.

Don’t Rush to Settle Your Car Accident Claim

Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly to minimize their costs. While it may be tempting to accept a fast payout, doing so could leave you with inadequate compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Consult with an attorney to evaluate whether the settlement offer is fair before agreeing to anything.

Know the Tactics Insurance Companies Use

Insurance adjusters may use a variety of tactics to reduce or deny your claim. These can include:

• Downplaying your injuries: Adjusters might argue that your injuries are less severe than they actually are.
• Disputing liability: They may claim you were partially or fully at fault to reduce their liability.
• Delaying the process: Prolonging the claims process can pressure you into accepting a lower settlement as you struggle to cover your bills and living expenses.

Being aware of these tactics can help you stay prepared and respond appropriately.

Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your Legal Needs

If you are dealing with injuries in the aftermath of a car accident, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.

Meeting with an attorney for the first time can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve never worked with one before. The good news is that your initial consultation is an opportunity to discuss your legal issue, understand your options, and determine if the attorney is the right fit for your needs. Here are our best tips for preparing for your initial consultation.

Know What the Initial Consultation Is For

The initial consultation with your attorney is not just about explaining your case. It’s also a chance for you to evaluate the attorney’s experience, communication style, and approach. In the same vein, the attorney you’re meeting with will assess your situation to determine if they can assist you. Keep in mind that this first meeting is typically a preliminary discussion and not a deep dive into your case.

Bring Relevant Documents

To help the attorney understand your situation, bring all relevant documents to your initial consultation. These might include things like:

• Contracts or agreements
• Court orders
• Medical records (for personal injury or medical malpractice cases)
• Police reports
• Correspondence, such as emails or letters
• Financial records
• Any other paperwork related to your legal issue

Organize these documents chronologically if possible, as this will make it easier for the attorney to follow the timeline of events. Depending on your case, your attorney may ask for these documents in advance or ask to make copies of them.

Prepare a Quick Summary of Your Case

Before your initial consultation, it’s a great idea to write a brief summary of your situation. It can be hard to gather your thoughts on the spot, so this will save you and your potential attorney time. Make sure that you include key facts, dates, and any steps you’ve already taken. Be concise but thorough and focus on the most relevant information.

Think About What Questions You Have

Your consultation is a chance to get answers to your questions. Writing them down beforehand ensures you won’t forget anything important. Consider asking questions like:

• What is your experience with cases like mine?
• What are the possible outcomes of my case?
• What is your approach to handling cases?
• How will we communicate, and how often?
• What are your fees, and how are they structured?

Legal matters can be complex, and the solutions aren’t always straightforward. Be open to the attorney’s advice and recommendations, even if they’re not what you expected.

Be Honest About Your Case

It’s essential to provide accurate and complete information during your consultation. Attorneys rely on the facts you provide to assess your case and give advice. Leaving out details or misrepresenting the situation could lead to misunderstandings or an inaccurate assessment of your case. Remember that an attorney’s job is to provide legal advice and represent your best interests, so your openness will allow them to help you as much as possible.

Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your Legal Needs

If you are involved in a personal injury case or think that you need the help of an attorney, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.

Medical records play a critical role in personal injury cases, as they provide key evidence to substantiate your claim and establish the extent of your injuries. By understanding how to properly utilize medical documentation, you can strengthen your case and improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation. How could medical records be used in your personal injury case?

Show How Serious Your Injuries Are

Medical records provide a detailed account of the injuries you sustained as a result of the accident you were involved in. These documents can include things like diagnosis reports, imaging results like X-rays or MRIs, treatment plans, and doctor’s notes. This evidence not only validates the existence of your injuries but also demonstrates their severity, which is important for determining the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Establish a Link Between the Accident and Your Injuries

To succeed in a personal injury case, you must be able to show that your injuries were caused by the accident in question. Medical records create a clear timeline by documenting when your injuries were diagnosed and treated. For example, if you sought immediate medical attention after your car accident, your medical records from visiting the emergency room later that day will show a direct link between the accident and your injuries.

Demonstrate the Lasting Impact of Your Injuries

Some injuries have lasting effects that require ongoing treatment or result in permanent disabilities. Medical records help your legal team show the long-term implications of your injuries. Documents like prognosis reports, physical therapy notes, and specialist visit notes can all help when you are seeking compensation for future medical expenses and reduced earning capacity.

Corroborate Your Personal Testimony

Your personal testimony about the pain and challenges you’ve faced since the accident can be backed up by medical records. For example, if you describe persistent pain since your injury, your doctor’s notes and test results can provide objective evidence to support your claims. Because your testimony and the medical documentation match, it will strengthen your credibility.

Refute Attempts to Minimize Your Injuries

Insurance companies and other defendants may try to downplay your injuries to reduce the compensation you receive. Medical records serve as a powerful counter to these tactics, as they will help you show indisputable evidence of your condition. If an insurer claims your injuries are pre-existing or unrelated to the accident, detailed medical documentation can show that is not the case.

Show How Much Has Been Spent on Treatment

Comprehensive medical records will include detailed billing information, which is essential for calculating the economic damages for your case. Your records will itemize expenses like emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments. This financial evidence is crucial when negotiating settlements or presenting your case in court.

How Can You Manage Your Records?

To make the most of your medical records in your personal injury case, make sure that you keep things organized. To manage your records:

• Keep Copies: Request copies of all medical records related to your treatment, including test results, prescriptions, and bills.
• Organize Documentation: Maintain a well-organized file of your medical records for easy reference.
• Share with Your Attorney: Provide your attorney with complete and accurate records to help them build a strong case.

Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your Legal Needs

If you were injured in an accident, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.

As a commercial driver’s license (CDL) holder, your livelihood depends on your ability to operate a vehicle. In Maryland, a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Impaired) conviction can have devastating consequences, not only for your career but also for your personal life. Understanding the unique legal standards and penalties CDL holders face is essential to protecting your future.

CDL Holders Are Held to Stricter Standards

CDL holders are held to higher standards than non-commercial drivers. While the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for most drivers in Maryland is 0.08%, CDL holders are considered over the limit with a BAC of 0.04%. This stricter threshold applies even if the driver is operating a personal vehicle at the time of the offense. Additionally, any DUI/DWI offense is reported to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) and can lead to immediate consequences for your CDL, regardless of whether you were on or off duty.

What Are the Immediate Consequences of a DUI or DWI?

A DUI/DWI conviction can result in severe penalties for CDL holders in Maryland:

1. License Disqualification: For a first offense, CDL holders typically face a one-year disqualification from operating commercial vehicles. If the offense involves the transportation of hazardous materials, the disqualification period increases to three years. A second offense often leads to a lifetime CDL disqualification, though reinstatement may be possible after 10 years in certain cases.
2. Employment Challenges: Most employers in the transportation industry have zero-tolerance policies for DUI/DWI convictions. Even if reinstatement is possible, finding employment as a commercial driver with a DUI/DWI on your record can be extremely challenging.
3. Personal Vehicle Impact: DUI/DWI penalties also apply to your standard driver’s license, which could lead to additional fines, points on your license, or mandatory participation in alcohol education programs.

Is There Hope?

Yes, CDL holders are held to the same standard as everyone else—innocent until proven guilty. If you are able to avoid a conviction, you can mitigate most of the damage to your career. If you’ve been charged with a DUI/DWI in Maryland, it’s crucial to act quickly:

1. Consult an Experienced Attorney: A skilled attorney can help you understand your rights, explore possible defenses, and negotiate for reduced charges or penalties. Some of the most common defenses include challenging the validity of the traffic stop, disputing BAC test results, or proving procedural errors during your arrest.
2. Consider a Plea Bargain: In some cases, your attorney may negotiate for a lesser charge, such as reckless driving, which may carry less severe consequences for your CDL.
3. Rehabilitation Programs: Voluntarily enrolling in an alcohol education or rehabilitation program can demonstrate your commitment to improving your behavior and may influence sentencing outcomes.

How Can You Protect Your CDL?

The best way to protect your CDL is to avoid any and all situations that could lead to a DUI/DWI charge. All CDL holders should:

• Plan Ahead: Use a designated driver or ride-sharing service if you plan to consume alcohol. Remember that the BAC standard you are held to is stricter, so a couple of drinks could leave you with permanent consequences.
• Know the Limits: Understand how alcohol affects your body and avoid any amount of drinking if you are not able to sober up for an extended period of time before driving.

Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your Legal Needs

If you are pulled over under suspicion of driving under the influence, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.

The holiday season is here, which means that many police departments are conducting checkpoints to prevent drunk driving. The increase in drivers hitting the roads after indulging too much at holiday parties also means that many officers are more aggressive in pulling drivers over who may be driving under the influence or driving erratically. If you are pulled over under suspicion of driving under the influence, you may be asked to participate in field sobriety tests. While these tests can seem intimidating, understanding how they work and what your rights are can help you keep a cool head.

What Are Field Sobriety Tests?

Field sobriety tests are small, simple tasks that are designed to give police officers an indication of whether or not a driver is impaired by alcohol or drugs. The three most common tests that you might encounter in Maryland are:

1. The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test: This test evaluates involuntary eye movements when the driver follows a moving object, such as a pen or flashlight. The officer will watch for wobbles or jerks in your eyes as you follow the object from side to side.
2. The Walk-and-Turn Test: The driver will be instructed to walk in a heel-to-toe straight line, turn around, and return. The instructions are considered part of the test, as the driver starting the test before hearing the instructions can be a red flag for intoxication.
3. The One-Leg Stand Test: For this test, the driver must balance on one leg for about 30 seconds without swaying, using their arms for balance, or putting their foot down.

While those three tests are the most common, some other tests can be performed, like asking the driver to recite the alphabet.

Do You Have to Perform Field Sobriety Tests?

In Maryland, field sobriety tests are voluntary, which means that you are not legally required to perform them. Unlike refusing to take a breathalyzer test, Maryland does not impose any automatic legal penalties for refusing to take a field sobriety test. However, declining any of these tests may raise suspicions and could lead to an arrest if the officer believes other signs indicate impairment

What Happens If You Fail a Field Sobriety Test?

Failing a field sobriety test does not automatically mean you will be convicted of a DUI. It can, however, give the police officer probable cause to arrest you and conduct further testing, like a breathalyzer or blood test. It is crucial to consult with an experienced Maryland DUI attorney to understand your options and build a strong defense.

Are Field Sobriety Tests Reliable?

While field sobriety tests are widely used, they are not foolproof. Studies show they have various degrees of accuracy, with the horizontal gaze nystagmus test boasting a 77% rate of accuracy and the one-leg stand test considered only 65% accurate. A variety of factors like medical conditions, fatigue, nervousness, and uneven surfaces can significantly impact performance on field sobriety tests, even for people who are completely sober.

Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your Legal Needs

If you are pulled over under suspicion of driving under the influence, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.