Three people were injured and one man was arrested on March 17 after an allegedly intoxicated suspect drove through a DUI checkpoint and led police on a high-speed chase. According to a report from NBC affiliate WBAL, the chase continued through the streets of Annapolis, attracting a police helicopter to assist with stopping the suspect. The man eventually crashed into an intersection at a red light, hitting three other cars and causing his own car to go up in flames.
How Did the Chase Begin?
The suspect, a 39-year-old man from Baltimore driving a 2008 Honda Accord, approached a DUI checkpoint being operated by the Maryland State Highway Patrol Office in Annapolis. According to the article, the vehicle plowed into the checkpoint and swerved off erratically, after which authorities gave chase.
The man led police on a chase that resulted in a helicopter being called in. After the helicopter gave chase and the police cars gave the man some distance, he crashed his car as he tried unsuccessfully to drive through an intersection. Three other vehicles were involved, and three people were taken to the hospital with minor injuries. The suspect was not injured and was arrested on charges of DUI, fleeing from police, and assault.
Maryland DUI Laws
In Maryland and D.C., it is against the law to operate a motor vehicle with a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of greater than .08%. A .08% BAC can result from as little as 1-2 drinks, depending on the situation. If a driver is involved in an accident while they are intoxicated, they will usually be charged with driving under the influence as well as any other charges they may be cited for. If someone is injured or killed by a drunk driver, the driver can face serious criminal charges in addition to civil liability to the victims of the accident.
The Civil Lawsuit for DUI Compensation
The victims of a drunk driving-related accident are entitled to recovery for the damages caused by the recklessness of the driver who decided to get behind the wheel and got in an accident when he or she was legally intoxicated. Accident victims can file a Maryland DUI accident lawsuit in the form of a personal injury action filed in state district court. If a victim can prove that the defendant was intoxicated, and that played a role in the accident, the plaintiff should receive compensation. Victims are regularly awarded damages for medical expenses, loss of work, pain and suffering, permanent disability, and other losses. Contacting a knowledgeable Maryland personal injury attorney shortly after an accident gives victims the best chance for a strong case.
Do You Need an Attorney?
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by a drunk driver, the Maryland personal injury attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen might be able to help you get the compensation that you deserve so that your life can get back on track. We have experience trying tough DUI cases, and we always put our clients first. Contact us for a free consultation and get some advice on your case today. Call us at 410-654-3600 or use the online form available on our website.
More Blog Posts:
Silver Springs DUI Accident Results in One Woman’s Death, Maryland Car Accident Attorney Blog, published March 3, 2015.
One Man Dead after Fatal Howard County Accident Involving Snow Plow and Icy Roads, Maryland Car Accident Attorney Blog, published February 24, 2015.