Prescription Drug Impaired Driving: What You Need to Know

Prescription drugs play a vital role in treating various medical conditions. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks associated with driving under the influence of these medications. In Beaver and throughout Pennsylvania, the law treats prescription drugs no differently than illegal substances in DUI cases.

Being charged with driving under the influence of prescription drugs is a serious matter. If you or a loved one find yourself in this situation, it’s imperative to seek immediate assistance from a skilled Beaver Drugged Driving Lawyer. With their expertise, they can navigate the complexities of your case and provide the necessary guidance.

Understanding the Consequences: Testing Twice the Legal Limit

Knowing the potential consequences is essential. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) tests twice the legal limit, you can face severe DUI penalties according to state laws. These penalties may include license suspension, imprisonment, and hefty fines.

Drugged Driving vs. Drunk Driving: Similarities and Implications

It’s worth noting that the laws regarding drugged driving are similar to those for drunk driving. Prescription drugs such as Ambien, Ativan, and Xanax often play a significant role in these cases. When law enforcement officers notice erratic driving behavior, like weaving, swerving, or driving below the speed limit, they can initiate a traffic stop. During this encounter, officers will look for physical indicators such as glassy eyes and slurred speech. They may also administer a Field Sobriety Test and request blood or urine samples.

To determine impairment due to drugs, officers rely on specially trained Drug Recognition Evaluators. These evaluators employ a multi-step program that closely monitors indicators like pupil dilation, blood pressure, pulse rate, and physical examinations. Understanding the severity of driving under the influence of prescription drugs, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential consequences in Pennsylvania’s three-tier system.

• First Offense: If convicted, a maximum prison term of six months, fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, a one-year license suspension, enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school, and potential participation in a treatment program can be imposed.

• Second Offense: For a second offense, penalties include a jail sentence between 90 days and five years, fines ranging from $1,500 to $10,000, an 18-month license suspension, mandatory enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school, treatment program requirements, and the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for one year.

• Third Offense: This offense carries severe consequences, including a prison term of one to five years, fines ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, an 18-month license suspension, mandatory enrollment in a treatment program, and the installation of an IID for one year.

A DUI conviction has long-term effects, such as a permanent criminal record that can hinder employment opportunities and lead to increased insurance premiums. In the unfortunate event of an accident resulting in death or injury, matters become further complicated and may result in a civil court trial.

Dealing with the Police: How to Safeguard Your Rights

When confronted with the police, it’s crucial to handle the situation with care. Follow these guidelines to protect yourself:

• Don’t attempt to flee upon arrest.
• Refrain from admitting to alcohol or drug consumption.
• Exercise your right to remain silent until you have a Beaver DUI Lawyer by your side.

Your Possible Defense Strategies

Driving under the influence of prescription drugs can be challenged. Your skilled drugged driving lawyer may employ the following defenses:

• Disputing your role as the driver of the vehicle.
• Questioning the legality of the stop and adherence to DUI checkpoint standards.
• Contesting impairment caused by prescription drugs.
• Challenging the proper administration and calibration of the testing equipment.

How Our Legal Team Can Assist You

At Logue Law Group, our dedicated Beaver criminal lawyers provide exceptional legal counsel and a robust defense. We will diligently work to discredit any evidence against you, safeguarding your rights and pursuing the best outcome.

To schedule a free initial consultation with our experienced Beaver criminal lawyers, reach out to us online or call (844) PITT-DUI or 412-389-0805. We are committed to guiding you through your legal challenges with confidence and expertise.