How does Maryland compare with other states when it comes to DUI penalties and prevention? According to a recent study by WalletHub, not very well.

WalletHub ranked Maryland number 47 in the country, which makes it the fifth-most lenient state for DUIs. Washington, D.C., fared even worse, ranking 50th on the list, signaling that it is more lenient than every other state except South Dakota.

When it comes to accidents caused by drunk driving, the experienced team of legal professionals at Goldberg Finnegan believe that those who injure or kill others because of their poor decision to drive while intoxicated should be held responsible for their actions.

Contact our experienced attorneys today to determine if legal action is right for you.

To determine its ranking of the toughest states on drunk driving, WalletHub analyzed a number of variables, including:

  • Minimum jail time for first and second offenses
  • When a DUI is considered an automatic felony
  • How long a license is suspended after a DUI conviction
  • The amount states charge in fines
  • If and when an ignition interlock is required after a DUI

Based on this data, the study calculated a score for each state.

In a breakdown of the data collected, we see that Maryland has the second-weakest penalties in the country and ranks 32nd in prevention. D.C. was 31st in penalties and ranked 50th in prevention.

While both Maryland and D.C. rank poorly on this scale, our other neighbor, Virginia, outperforms most states. It boasts as the ninth-harshest state for DUI penalties and the 13th best DUI prevention rate in the nation.

Drunk driving is a serious problem across the country and accounts for 31 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities.

If you or someone you love is involved in an accident caused by an impaired driver, call our accident lawyers for a free consultation. An injury lawyer Silver Spring, MD from our law firm may be able to help you get the justice you deserve.