DUI Drugs

DUI Drugs

When most people hear “DUI,” they think of drunk driving and alcohol impairment. But driving under the influence doesn’t just refer to booze. Getting behind the wheel while impaired by drugs—both illegal and prescription—can also lead to DUI charges. In fact, drugged driving is an increasing problem on US roads today.

In this article, we’ll examine key issues related to drug DUIs, including:

• Types of drugs leading to DUI charges
• Common drug DUI scenarios
• Testing procedures
• Penalties
• Fighting drug DUI charges

Driving while impaired by any substance is dangerous and illegal. Understanding how drug DUIs work can help you avoid charges and make smarter choices on the road.

Types of Drugs Leading to DUI

A wide range of drugs can impair driving ability and lead to DUI charges. Common categories include:

• Marijuana – THC impairs coordination, focus, and reaction time.
• Opioids – Vicodin, oxycodone, heroin cause drowsiness and slow reflexes.
• Stimulants – Cocaine, methamphetamine lead to aggressive driving.
• Depressants – Xanax, Valium, Ambien cause drowsiness.
• Prescriptions – Many Rx meds like sleep aids and muscle relaxers impair driving.

Even some over-the-counter cold and allergy medications can potentially affect driving ability and lead to DUI charges if causing visible impairment.

Common Drug DUI Scenarios

Some of the most common scenarios that lead to drug DUI arrests include:

• Weaving or swerving all over the road
• Driving too slowly and impeding traffic
• Failing to signal turns or lane changes
• Hitting curbs or driving erratically
• Fallling asleep behind the wheel
• Exhibiting slurred speech or confusion
• Crashing into other vehicles or objects

When officers observe these types of clear signs of impairment during a traffic stop, they will suspect drug influence and investigate further. This often leads to field sobriety tests, blood draws, and DUI charges.

Drug DUI Testing Procedures

If an officer suspects a driver is impaired by drugs, typical testing procedures include:

• Field sobriety tests – Check coordination and balance.
• Blood test – Measures presence and levels of drugs.
• Urine test – Confirms drugs metabolized in system.
• Drug recognition exam – Specialist officer detects symptoms.

These tests allow officers to gather evidence to support the drug DUI charges. Refusing testing can also lead to additional penalties in some cases.

Penalties for Drug DUIs

Like alcohol DUI charges, drug DUIs involve both criminal and DMV penalties. These can include:

• Fines up to $1000 plus penalties
• Up to 6 months in jail
• Driver’s license suspension up to 1 year
• Probation and required DUI programs
• Vehicle impoundment or interlock device

Penalties increase for repeat drug DUI offenders. Having a DUI defense lawyer can help minimize the consequences.

Fighting Drug DUI Charges

Defending against drug DUI charges requires challenging the validity of the officer’s observations and testing procedures. Possible strategies include:

• Contesting cause for the traffic stop
• Questioning accuracy of field sobriety tests
• Raising doubt about blood/urine test results
• Disputing credentials of drug recognition examiner
• Arguing you were not “under the influence” by legal definition

An experienced DUI lawyer understands the intricacies of drug DUI cases and how to build an aggressive defense challenging impairment allegations. Don’t settle for the standard penalties. Explore your options.

Avoiding Drug DUIs

The best way to avoid drug DUI troubles is simple: Never drive while impaired by any substance, whether illegal, prescription, or over-the-counter. If you need to take medications, know the potential effects before getting behind the wheel. And always have a designated sober driver if you plan to use drugs recreationally. It’s just not worth the devastating DUI consequences. Make smart choices.