Maryland § 8-738.1
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 8-738.1, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-738.1.
(a) If a person is involved in an accident while operating or attempting to operate a vessel that results in the death of, or a life–threatening injury to, another person and the person is detained by a police officer who has reasonable grounds to believe that the person has been operating a vessel or attempting to operate a vessel while under the influence of alcohol, while impaired by alcohol, while so far impaired by any drug, any combination of drugs, or a combination of one or more drugs and alcohol that the person could not operate a vessel safely, or while impaired by a controlled dangerous substance, the person shall be required to submit, as directed by the police officer, to a test of:
(1) The person’s breath to determine alcohol concentration;
(2) One specimen of the person’s blood to determine alcohol concentration or to determine the drug or controlled dangerous substance content of the person’s blood; or
(3) Both the person’s breath under item (1) of this subsection and one specimen of the person’s blood under item (2) of this subsection.
(b) If a police officer directs that a person be tested, then the provisions of § 10–304 of the Courts Article apply.
(c) Any medical personnel who perform any test required by this section are not liable for any civil damages as a result of any act or omission related to the test, not amounting to gross negligence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 8-738.1
What does Maryland Code § 8-738.1 cover?
Section 8-738.1 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 8-738.1?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 8-738.1" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 8-738.1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.