Driving Under the Influence of Drugs

Alcohol-related DUI has long been a leading cause of substance abuse fatalities in Pittsburgh. However, there is now a worrying surge in traffic fatalities involving drug impairment. The Pittsburgh police are taking action against this offense, actively apprehending drug users behind the wheel. The penalties for drug-related driving offenses are severe, highlighting the need for an experienced Pittsburgh Drugged Driving Lawyer who can provide a robust defense.

What You Need to Know?

Under the law, if controlled substances or metabolites are found in your bloodstream, or if a combination of drugs and alcohol impairs your driving abilities, you can be charged with DUI. It’s important to understand that drugged driving laws closely mirror those for drunk driving. Law enforcement officers are trained to detect signs of impairment that jeopardize road safety, such as weaving, driving below the speed limit, and failure to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. When pulled over, the police will assess physical signs of impairment, including glassy eyes and slurred speech.

In addition to field sobriety tests and other blood and urine tests, the police may involve Drug Recognition Evaluators. These experts utilize a well-defined, multi-step program to determine drug impairment. They also examine signs of drug abuse, such as injection marks, and assess factors like pupil dilation, blood pressure, and pulse rate. Moreover, the evaluation process includes a unique set of field sobriety tests specifically designed for drug-related DUI cases.

When it comes to DUI charges related to prescription drugs, consulting an experienced Washington Drugged Driving Attorney can provide crucial insights. It’s important to understand that even if impaired by medication, you can still be charged with DUI. Additionally, it’s vital to be aware of the highest level in the three-tier system for drug-related convictions, which entails stringent penalties. These penalties include:

First Offense: Up to six months in prison, fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, one year license suspension, and enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school. Participation in a treatment program may also be required.

Second Offense: Sentence of 90 days to five years in prison, fines between $1,500 and $10,000, 18 months license suspension, mandatory enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school and treatment program, and use of an IID (Ignition Interlock Device) for a year.

Third Offense: Severe repercussions such as one to five years in prison, fines ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, 18-month license suspension, mandatory treatment program, and installation of an IID for one year.

It’s important to keep in mind that a DUI conviction results in a permanent criminal record, which can potentially impact your career and lead to increased car insurance premiums. In the unfortunate event of an accident resulting in injury or death, the situation becomes even more complex as you may face additional civil court trials for damages.

What to Do When Police Pulls You Over?

• Don’t try to walk away from the situation or escape the arrest.
• Refrain from admitting to consuming alcohol or drugs.
• Avoid answering any questions or making statements without the presence of your trusted Washington PA criminal lawyer.

Your Probable Defense

Now, let’s talk about your probable defense. If you’re facing charges of driving under the influence of drugs, your Washington PA DUI Lawyer will work diligently to establish the following:

• Prove that you were not the driver of the vehicle.
• Challenge the lawfulness of the stop and point out any failures in the DUI checkpoint standards.
• Argue that you were not impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Question the validity of the test, including improper conduct and equipment calibration issues.

How Your Lawyer Will Help You?

Rest assured, your lawyer will be there every step of the way, providing guidance and offering the best legal counsel throughout your trial. Navigating a drugged driving charge requires the expertise of a skilled Drugged Driving Attorney in Washington.

Take the first step towards obtaining the help you need. Schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced Washington PA DUI lawyer from Logue Law Group. You can contact us online or simply give us a call at (844) PITT-DUI or 412-389-0805.