Marijuana vs. Alcohol

While the Washington Post Article presents some findings regarding marijuana usage, a case may be made in Maryland regarding the impairment of a driver under the influence, or impaired by marijuana while driving. Furthermore, in Maryland, a blood sample is required from a driver who is involved in any fatal accident, when police officer's suspect that the driver may have used any drugs and/or alcohol. 

Currently in Maryland it is against the law to drive, or attempt to drive while under the influence of alcohol, or while impaired by drugs and/or alcohol. In order to determine the level of any of those substances in someone's system, the police can use an intoximeter (breath test), or blood test. 

If a police officer believes that a person is under the influence or impaired by drugs and/or alcohol - the police officer will first attempt to administer an intoximeter test, then if the results of that test do not accurately reflect the level of impairment that the officer is detecting, the police officer will then call in a Drug Recognition Expert to administer additional testing. 

The Drug Recognition Expert is a police officer who has additional, extensive training regarding persons under the influence of drugs (legal or illegal). If the Drug Recognition Expert determines that an impairment exists, he or she will request a blood sample from the suspected impaired driver. 

Being charged with DUI or DWI is a serious matter that could affect the rest of your life. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration could suspend or revoke your driving privileges, and the State of Maryland courts could give you a fine or send you to jail.  With my experience as a former State Trooper and Prosecutor, i am in a unique position to assist with any questions.