Throughout the career of an experienced Maryland DUI lawyer, it is common to represent clients who have been charged with manslaughter after driving while intoxicated and causing a fatal car crash. Cases handled are much like the example of Melissa Rebe who was indicted on manslaughter and DUI charges following a fatal accident with a young cyclist. On October 20th, 2008, Rebe was driving south during the early morning hours when she ran a red light at 40th avenue and plowed into the teen on the bicycle. Nineteen year-old Jonathan Johnson was on his way to work when Rebe hit him after driving under the influence. According to witnesses on the scene, Johnson had the green light and the right away. Two days later, the teen died at the local hospital.
After the accident, Rebe had her blood alcohol content drawn and urine tests were conducted. Analysts determined that her THC levels were twice the level of criminal suspects that officers considered "impaired." Prosecutors maintain that Rebe was driving under the influence of marijuana when she ran the red light and hit Johnson. Perhaps she was also distracted by the McDonald's she had picked up just five minutes before the crash.
Regardless, Rebe maintains that she never saw him. "I ran a red light. I didn't see him," she explained at the scene. According to witnesses, Johnson was riding fast and wearing dark clothing, even though the sun hadn't risen yet. A lifelong Alaskan, Rebe had no prior convictions what-so-ever. Additionally, as this case happened over a year ago, Rebe has been since driving with a valid license with no further problems.
Even though Rebe was not driving drunk, she was still charged for driving under the influence. It is possible to be charged and convicted for driving while intoxicated, even if that person is not drunk. Driving under the influence of marijuana is still considered driving under the influence, and will result in a DUI charge. Conviction of driving while intoxicated charges will have life changing consequences including the loss of driving privileges, fines, and/or jail time. For the best legal advice possible, it is important to immediately contact a hard-working and aggressive Maryland DUI attorney.
Price Benowitz LLP published this article. Our attorneys have offices in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia. For more information about the firm, please visit the Maryland Criminal Attorney,Maryland DUI Lawyer and Maryland personal injury websites.
