Intoxicated Driver Stopped at Green Lights and Drove on Sidewalks

CONCORD, N. H. _ Driving on the sidewalks is not a good idea if you want to keep your driving privileges in New Hampshire.

That’s what a Milford, New Hampshire, man is finding out.

Police say Dwyane Marco, 33, was intoxicated on June 1 when he stopped at green lights and drove on sidewalks. A caller alerted Concord police and then kept following the impaired driver. According to reports, Marco continued driving to a parking lot and then got out of his vehicle and then went and sat down at a picnic table. When police arrived, he was standing outside his vehicle.

A police report indicates that the first officer who arrived at the scene didn’t smell alcohol on Marco’s breath and that the man had admitted to taking a Tylenol PM earlier that day. Marco allegedly told the officers that he was tired and had been trying to go to Dartmouth but couldn’t find the way. He says he was following GPS directions.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, it is in your best interest to speak to a DUI lawyer in New Hampshire as soon as possible after your arrest. You will not want to handle your case without an attorney who is well-versed in the state’s DUI and DWI laws.

Marco agreed to take field sobriety tests and the officer wrote in the report that he was swaying from side to side and leaning against the vehicle. He arrested Marco, saying he didn’t feel the man was in the “proper condition” to drive.

A search of Marco’s vehicle turned up a small bottle with marijuana in it. According to the officers, Marco “laid down on a bench and fell asleep,’’ while the search took place. The officers also found a GPS unit on the floor of the vehicle with no address logged in it.

The state of New Hampshire doesn't differentiate between substances when charging drivers with DUI. It doesn't matter if you're only using an over-the-counter drug, or a prescription drug. If you are impaired while driving an officer may stop you.

It's important that you seek the advice of a New Hampshire DUI lawyer who can help you understand the complexities of the law.

Authorities advise motorists to never drive after taking medication.

Cold medications and most prescriptions come with warnings about driving or operating machinery while using the drug. There is a good reason for this. Each drug can have a different effect on you.

Police officers look out for impaired drivers on the state's roads. And sometimes people see drivers, like Marco, who appear to be under the influence of a controlled substance and call 911.

What are signs of an impaired driver?

Some divers who are using drugs may actually fall asleep at the wheel. Others may be driving too fast or too slow. Or they could be swerving in traffic. If you get pulled over, you will want to consult with a DUI attorney in New Hampshire as soon as you are allowed.

When your case hits the court system, you’ll probably be faced with numerous issues you’ve never had to deal with, such as attending hearings, meeting with your attorney and going before a judge. Your attorney can help you understand the process.

You need to understand that a DUI arrest and conviction will cost you plenty of time and money. In addition to all the time you spend with your attorney and in hearings, you’ll also be ordered into treatment if you are found guilty of driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

You will be responsible for paying your attorney, along with any court fees and fines. If this is your first offense, for example, it will likely be considered a Class B Misdemeanor. A judge can send you to jail for up to six months and can fine you a minimum of $500.

There are other consequences. Your driver’s license will be suspended for nine months to two years, depending on the specifics of your case. And 6 points will be added to your driving record. This can cost you down the line in insurance costs as well.

A judge will also order you to complete an intervention program for impaired drivers, during which you’ll be evaluated for substance abuse issues.

So, as you can see, there are many facets to a DUI conviction. Please consult with a DUI lawyer in New Hampshire for advice.