When driving, you expect to get to your destination safely. However, sharing the road with a drunk driver can lower the likelihood of that happening. But what are the chances of being around a drunk driver when driving on Maryland roads?
Here is what you need to know:
It can be highly likely
Maryland made more than 70,000 impaired driving arrests from 2019 to 2023. Over 200,000 criminal citations for impaired driving offenses were issued over that period. This means arrests related to drunk driving are made regularly in the state. Hence, it can be highly likely to be around a drunk driver.
Certain factors can increase the likelihood. Firstly, 58% of impaired crashes in Maryland occur on Friday, Saturday or early Sunday. The time of the day is another crucial factor. Impaired driving crashes are significantly high from 5 p.m. through 3 a.m. And fatality incidents caused by impaired driving typically increase between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekends.
Additionally, while any driver can engage in drunk driving, study shows that 1 in 3 impaired drivers in Maryland is usually a 25 to 39-year-old. Impaired drivers in this age range are involved in more than 30% crashes that result in an injury or fatality.
Moreover, about 80% of impaired driving crashes in Maryland occur in the Baltimore and Washington metropolitan areas. With Towson being located within the Baltimore metropolitan area, with a concentration of restaurants and bars, the probability of being around a drunk driver can be high.
How can you spot a drunk driver?
If a driver around you is weaving, swerving, suddenly accelerating and decelerating, braking for no reason, tailgating, using turn signals incorrectly, or failing to yield, they may be drunk. You should keep a safe distance.
If a drunk driver hits you, you can hold them accountable for their actions. Consider legal guidance to fight for your rights.