Traffic offenses represent the only time most of us will be in court facing even the potential of time in jail. Although the specifics of the laws relating to DWI/DUI vary among the three neighboring jurisdictions of Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, there are some generalities that will stand you in good stead in all three.
First and foremost—Do your absolute level best not to drive after you’ve been drinking, especially if you haven’t eaten or if you have been drinking carbonated beverages with your alcohol. Both factors will speed up the absorption of alcohol into your bloodstream and get you drunker faster. While it may seem self-evident, it doesn’t hurt to remind yourself of this so you can avoid being stopped.
If you ARE stopped—Cooperate! Being stopped by the police is a bad enough experience as it is. Antagonizing the officer or being cute will only get him or her annoyed. Being human, the officer will be tempted to take that frustration out on you in subtle ways that will not find their way into the police report and that will be difficult for you to prove. If you are tempted to be sarcastic, remember that the officer has a gun readily available and you don’t (or shouldn’t). Cooperation has its limits, though. Do NOT volunteer any information about what you have been drinking, how much, or how long ago. “I only had two beers, officer” will not help you either on the scene or in court.
