Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not only dangerous; it is against the law in Maryland. If you are caught, you can be charged with a DUI and face the loss of your rights, significant fines, and potentially even jail time.

Often, people share misinformation about drinking and driving, and that misinformation can lead people to make dangerous and costly mistakes. Today, we wanted to address some of the more common myths we have seen online and heard about from clients and others.

Myth #1: Drinking tea or coffee can sober you up

Caffeinated drinks might make you feel more alert and awake, but they do not induce sobriety. The only thing that can help you sober up after a night of drinking is time. It takes time for alcohol to make its way through your body and out of your system. It takes the liver one hour to metabolize alcohol from a single drink. Drinking tea or coffee will not make this process happen any quicker.

Myth #2: A DUI charge only happens if you are behind the wheel of a moving car

You do not have to be sitting behind the wheel of your vehicle to be charged with DUI in Maryland. A person who operates any gas-powered or electric-powered vehicle can be charged with DUI, including ATVs, electric bikes, and even lawn mowers.

Further, even if you are parked on the side of the road, or sitting the wheel in your own driveway, you may still face DUI charges.

Myth #3: You can drive safely after taking a nap

Taking a nap does not guarantee that your body has properly metabolized the alcohol you consumed. That is why you can still face DUI charges if you take a nap and then drive your vehicle. If anything, you should get a solid eight hours of sleep before getting back behind the wheel of your vehicle.

Myth #4: You can only be charged with DUI if your BAC is 0.08% or higher

It is entirely possible for you to face a DUI charge even if your blood-alcohol content (BAC) level is under 0.08%. Many people exhibit signs of impairment when their BAC is well below 0.08%, and it is illegal to drive with any level of alcohol in your system.

Myth #5: A breathalyzer is used to determine a person’s BAC

A breathalyzer is used to estimate your BAC level, not to determine the actual value. It is not out of the realm of possibility for a false positive to occur with a breathalyzer. A blood test is the only method used to determine your actual BAC.

If you are facing DUI charges, it is in your best interest to consult an experienced DUI defense attorney Carey Law Office represents clients throughout the state who are facing DUI and DWI charges. Please call 301-464-2500 or complete our contact form to schedule a consultation. We maintain offices in Bowie and Crofton.