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A St. Patrick’s Day DUI PSA – Know the Risks, Know Your Rights

Yollette Atkinson March 6, 2026

St. Patrick’s Day in Towson is one of the biggest celebration days of the year. From festive gatherings to packed bars and private parties, alcohol is often front and center. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most heavily enforced DUI weekends in Maryland.

As a Towson DUI defense attorney, I see the aftermath every year. A single decision to drive after “just a few drinks” can lead to arrest, license suspension, criminal charges, and serious financial and professional consequences.

I’m Lesley Atkinson of Atkinson Law, and this is your St. Patrick’s Day DUI Public Service Reminder:
Celebrate responsibly. Plan ahead. And know your rights.

🚔 DUI Enforcement in Towson on St. Patrick’s Day

Law enforcement agencies in and around Towson increase patrols and DUI checkpoints during holiday weekends. Officers are specifically watching for:

  • Swerving or drifting between lanes

  • Delayed reaction to traffic signals

  • Speed fluctuations

  • Equipment violations (tag lights, headlights, etc.)

  • Minor traffic infractions used as a basis for a stop

It doesn’t take extreme impairment to be charged. In Maryland:

  • 0.08% BAC or higher = DUI

  • 0.07% BAC = DWI (a lesser but still serious offense)

  • Impairment can be alleged even without a high breath result

⚖️ What To Do If You Are Stopped for DUI in Towson

If you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror:

1. Pull Over Safely and Promptly

Use your turn signal and stop in a safe location. Keep your hands visible on the steering wheel.

2. Be Polite — But Be Careful What You Say

You must provide:

  • Driver’s license

  • Registration

  • Proof of insurance

You do not have to answer incriminating questions such as:

  • “How much have you had to drink?”

  • “Where are you coming from?”

You may respectfully say:

“I prefer not to answer questions.”

3. Field Sobriety Tests Are Voluntary

In Maryland, roadside field sobriety tests (walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, eye test) are voluntary. You may decline.

4. Breath Test Decision Matters

If arrested, you will be asked to take a breath test at the station.
This is where administrative consequences become critical.

Do not argue roadside. Do not resist. Comply physically while protecting your legal rights verbally.

🛑 Your Rights During a DUI Stop

As a driver in Maryland, you have important constitutional protections:

✔ The Right to Remain Silent

You are not required to admit drinking or answer investigative questions.

✔ The Right to Refuse Field Sobriety Tests

These roadside coordination tests are not mandatory.

✔ The Right to an Attorney

If arrested, you have the right to consult with an attorney before making critical legal decisions (though timing is limited when deciding on a breath test).

✔ Protection Against Illegal Stops

Police must have reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle. An unlawful stop can impact your case.

Many people hurt their defense by oversharing. Calm, respectful silence is often your best protection.

📄 Administrative Consequences for BAC Refusal in Maryland

One of the most misunderstood parts of a DUI arrest is the administrative penalty for refusing a breath test.

In Maryland, refusal triggers an automatic license suspension through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), separate from your criminal case.

If You Refuse the Breath Test:

  • First offense refusal: 270-day license suspension

  • Second offense refusal: 2-year suspension

  • You may be eligible for an ignition interlock device instead of full suspension

If You Take the Test and Blow 0.08% or Higher:

  • First offense: 180-day suspension

  • Second offense: 1-year suspension

You only have 10 days from arrest to request an MVA hearing to potentially prevent or modify the suspension.

This is why speaking with a DUI attorney immediately is critical.

⚠ Criminal Penalties for DUI in Towson

In addition to MVA consequences, DUI convictions can result in:

  • Jail time

  • Fines

  • Probation

  • Mandatory alcohol programs

  • Points on your license

  • Increased insurance premiums

  • Permanent criminal record

For many professionals and students in Towson, a conviction can impact employment, security clearances, and educational opportunities.

🍀 St. Patrick’s Day Safety Tips

  • Use Uber, Lyft, or a designated driver

  • Stay overnight if you’ve been drinking

  • Monitor your alcohol intake carefully

  • Remember that time alone does not guarantee sobriety

  • When in doubt — do not drive

The cost of a ride share is insignificant compared to the cost of a DUI arrest.

📍 Charged with DUI in Towson? Call Atkinson Law Today.

If you or a loved one is arrested for DUI in Towson or Baltimore County, immediate action matters. Deadlines move quickly, especially regarding license suspension.

At Atkinson Law, I aggressively defend clients against DUI and DWI charges and challenge:

  • The legality of the traffic stop

  • Field sobriety testing procedures

  • Breath test reliability

  • Constitutional violations

  • MVA administrative suspensions

Every case has defenses. The earlier you act, the stronger your position.

📞 Schedule Your Consultation Now

If you have been stopped or charged with DUI in Towson, do not wait.

Call 410-882-9595 today to schedule a confidential appointment with Lesley Atkinson at Atkinson Law.

Your license.
Your record.
Your future.

Protect them.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.