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Pennsylvania’s Laws on Drugged Driving (DUI-D)
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Pennsylvania’s Laws on Drugged Driving (DUI-D)
Driving under the influence of drugs (DUI-D), sometimes called “drugged driving,” is a big problem in Pennsylvania. Lots of folks don’t really understand the laws or think it’s no big deal to drive when they’re high. But it is a big deal — drugged driving can ruin lives. This article will break down Pennsylvania’s drugged driving laws so you understand the risks and can make smart choices.
What is drugged driving in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, you can get a DUI for driving under the influence of pretty much any drug — illegal, prescription, or over-the-counter. The law says it’s illegal to drive if:
- You have any amount of an illegal drug (like cocaine or heroin) in your system
- You have prescription drugs in your system that you don’t have a prescription for
- You have over-the-counter drugs in amounts that make it hard to drive safely
- You have any combination of drugs in your system (including alcohol) that affects your ability to drive
It doesn’t matter if the drug is legal or not. If it impairs your driving, it’s illegal to get behind the wheel.
How do police test for drugged driving?
Cops have a few ways to test if you’re driving high:
- Field sobriety tests – These are the balance and coordination tests police do roadside, like walking a straight line heel-to-toe or standing on one leg.
- Blood or urine tests – Pennsylvania has “implied consent” laws that require drivers to submit to chemical testing if police suspect drugged driving. Refusing the test leads to fines and license suspension.
- Drug Recognition Experts – Special cops trained to spot signs of drug intoxication like dilated pupils, tremors, and high pulse rate.
Penalties for drugged driving
A first offense drugged driving conviction can lead to:
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Fines up to $5,000
- 12-month license suspension
- Drug & alcohol safety classes
- Ignition interlock device installation
Penalties get worse for repeat offenses. Some other consequences include:
- Higher insurance rates
- Job loss
- Difficulty finding work in the future, especially for jobs requiring driving
Defenses against a drugged driving charge
There are a few ways a skilled DUI lawyer may get drugged driving charges reduced or dismissed:
- Challenge blood test results if there was contamination or faulty procedures
- Argue you weren’t actually impaired even if drugs were in your system
- Claim illegal search & seizure if police didn’t have probable cause for the traffic stop
- Allege improper administration of field sobriety tests
- Dispute the validity of drug recognition expert testimony
Tips for avoiding drugged driving
The best way to avoid a drugged driving charge is not to drive at all if you’ve taken anything that could impair your driving. But if you do drive after taking medication or other drugs, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t mix drugs with alcohol or other meds
- Pay attention to label warnings about driving
- Be extra cautious and drive defensively
- Don’t drive if you feel even slightly impaired
- Have a designated driver or take public transportation
Driving under the influence puts everyone on the road at risk. Make the smart choice and don’t drive impaired.
- Pennsylvania Drugged Driving – NORML
- Title 75 – PA General Assembly
- What You Need To Know About Drugged Driving in PA | DiCindio Law
- PA Drugged Driving Defense | Skilled | Experienced | McAndrewslegal.com
- Pennsylvania Drugged Driving Laws and Drug Metabolites – Applebaum & Associates