The MVA uses license points in order to decide whether a driver should enroll in a Driver Improvement Program, be suspended from driving or have their license revoked after failing to follow driving laws. Points often accumulate after minor violations, such as speeding 15 mph over the limit, failing to use a turn signal, or running a red light, but only by 1 or 2 points for each violation. The penalties for DWIs and DUIs, on the other hand, are much more severe. In many states there are no points added in addition to the consequences of the charge, but in Maryland, 8 license points are added for a DWI, and 12 license points are added for a DUI.
Consequences of Point Accumulation
Having points on your license means that future violations will have greater consequences. If you had accumulated 5-7 license points within two years of receiving an additional violation, the MVA would require you to enroll in a Driver Improvement Program (DIP). For 8-11 points you’d receive a notice of suspension, and for 12 or more points you’d receive a notice of revocation. You are able to request a hearing within 15 days of the notice date to show cause for why the suspension or revocation of your license should not be imposed.
Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program
License suspension or revocation can be avoided through Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program, which allows offenders to operate their vehicles after using a breath analyzer to check their sobriety. If you receive a notice of suspension or revocation due to a DWI or DUI charge, you should also receive an Ignition Interlock Program-Participant Requirements form that provides application instructions. Participants must have this system installed in their vehicle by an approved service provider, surrender their driver’s license, and obtain a restricted driver’s license in order to continue driving without suspension.
Penalties for a DWI or DUI
While the accumulation of license points from a DWI or DUI can cause major consequences if you face an additional violation soon afterwards, there are also immediate penalties that result from these charges. Offenders will face fines and often spend time in jail, and penalties can be significantly higher with each additional offense, if you’re under the age of 21, or if there was a minor in the vehicle at the time of the arrest. The severity of these penalties depends on specific circumstances and the expertise of the offender’s attorney.
How Can Penalties for a DUI or DWI Be Reduced?
There are facts about each specific case that can significantly reduce penalties if an experienced attorney who understands this area of law presents the case. The Law Office of Elizabeth A. Lawrence offers high-quality legal representation, personal attention, and professionalism to help defend the harsh penalties of DWIs, DUIs, and other serious traffic offenses in Maryland and District of Columbia. Click here or call (410) 986-0088 to consult with an experienced attorney today.