How to Avoid a DUI on Fourth of July Weekend in Maryland

Fourth of July weekend brings together friends and families across Maryland, but it also leads to some of the most dangerous nights on the road each year. Crowds, fireworks, and parties often mean more drinking, and unfortunately, more drivers getting behind the wheel after celebrating. It only takes one bad decision to go from a night out to a criminal record.

With so many accidents caused by impaired driving, planning ahead becomes more than a good idea—it’s absolutely critical. Having a practical strategy for safely getting home is the surest way to stay out of trouble. If you end up facing charges for driving under the influence, it’s also essential to know what you’re up against and how the process works.

Tips to avoid a DUI this Fourth of July weekend

Every Fourth of July, celebrations often come with more police on the roads and stricter enforcement of Maryland’s DUI laws. No one wants their holiday memories overshadowed by an arrest. A little planning now can make a big difference later, whether you’re out driving, enjoying the water, or hosting at home. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Plan your transportation before the party

Planning can spare you an unexpected night in jail and long-term legal issues. If you know you’ll have a few drinks, line up your ride home before you get started.  Rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft remain solid options, especially if you’re in an area where taxis aren’t commonly on the roads.

Alternatively, you can choose a designated driver if you’re out with a group of friends. Make that decision before anyone has a drink, so there’s no confusion later. If there aren’t rideshare vehicles in the area and you can’t have a designated driver for whatever reason, consider buses or local shuttles.

No matter what you do, don’t get behind the wheel after drinking, or ride with another driver who has been drinking.

Be aware of DUI checkpoints and increased patrols

On July 4th, drivers may come across roadside sobriety checkpoints, especially near busy beaches, lakes, and popular city centers. Police use checkpoints to find drivers under the influence and get them off the road. If you enter a checkpoint or are directed to stop by a Maryland police officer, you must comply.

They will usually ask you for basic information, like your driver’s license, and check for signs that you’ve been drinking. Remain respectful and cooperative with officers, but remember you’re not obligated to give details that might be used against you.

Boating under the influence (BUI) is also illegal

Many people will be fishing, boating, or spending time on the water as part of their Fourth of July celebration. The same rules that apply to drinking and driving also apply to operating a boat.

Maryland Natural Resources Police watch for impaired boating activity on the Chesapeake and the state’s other popular lakes and rivers. They conduct stops similar to driver checkpoints when they suspect impaired boat operation. Boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal and carries penalties comparable to DUI penalties, so don’t assume that just because you aren’t behind the wheel of a car, you are safe from legal trouble.

Take host responsibility seriously – keep guests safe

For those inviting friends and family over, you still have responsibilities even if you aren’t driving at the end of the night. First, make an effort to put out water, soda, and food, along with any alcoholic drinks.

Closer to the time people plan on leaving your house, put the alcohol away and encourage people to drink water and other beverages. Ask people at your party if anyone needs a rideshare or a taxi ordered—or if necessary, a couch to sleep on.

Social host liability in Maryland

Some states have laws that let victims hold social hosts responsible if they give alcohol to a guest who gets drunk and then causes a crash. Maryland law isn’t as strict—social hosts won’t be liable for adults who cause a drunk driving accident after a party.

However, Maryland treats minors differently. If a person knowingly and willfully serves beer, wine, or liquor to someone under 21 and that minor causes a crash after drinking, the host can face criminal penalties for providing alcohol to an underage person in addition to possible civil liability. While you obviously won’t face DUI penalties, this is still a serious situation to find yourself in, and one that should be avoided at all costs.

What to do if you’re stopped and arrested for DUI

If you’re stopped and arrested for DUI, the steps you take next can make a big difference in how your case unfolds. Feeling nervous or even scared is normal, but you can protect your rights if you know what to do in the moment.

Remain calm and respectful

Getting pulled over by the police is always stressful, but arguing or becoming angry can make things more difficult. Pull over to a safe spot as soon as possible. Keep your hands where the officer can see them, and give them your driver’s license and proof of insurance when they ask.

Limit what you say

You don’t have to answer any questions the officer asks you about where you’re coming from or what you had to drink. Just give them your name and documents, but otherwise, limit what you say. There’s no reason to try to talk yourself out of the situation—if you’ve been drinking, trying to explain things away is almost always going to make the situation worse.

Know your rights – you can refuse a breathalyzer (with consequences)

If you are arrested for DUI or DWI in Maryland, you have the legal option to say no to a breathalyzer test at the police station, but this doesn’t mean there aren’t consequences. For your first refusal, the Motor Vehicle Administration will suspend your license for 270 days. If it is not your first time, they can suspend it for two years. The MVA does this even if you go on to beat your criminal case.

Prosecutors are allowed to tell a jury you refused to take an evidentiary test after your arrest. They might suggest you refused because you were hiding something. However, if you only refused the breath test at the roadside (the small handheld machine before an arrest), that fact cannot be mentioned at trial.

What to do if you’re arrested

Once arrested, do not resist, raise your voice, or argue with the officer. Let them know you want a lawyer right away. You have the right to remain silent and don’t have to say anything until you can speak with a lawyer. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

If you’re arrested and facing DUI charges, reach out for help from experienced legal counsel as soon as possible.

Contact Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law

If you have questions or need help, you can contact Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law. With over 20 years of experience handling all kinds of criminal matters, including DUIs, Drew Cochran will listen to your concerns and guide you through your options. Consultations are free, and you can reach out any day of the week. Help is available whenever you are ready to take the next step.