Driving Under the Influence of Drugs

Driving under the influence isn’t just about alcohol anymore. There’s a rising concern about drugged driving, and the Indiana police department is cracking down on offenders to ensure public safety. With penalties being extremely strict, it’s essential to have an experienced DUI attorney by your side to advocate for you. Below, we break down what you need to know about drug-related DUI charges, the testing process, and how an attorney can help.

What Qualifies as Drugged Driving in Indiana, PA?

Under Pennsylvania law, any controlled substances or detectable drug metabolites found in your system, or impairment caused by a combination of drugs and alcohol, can result in a DUI charge. Importantly, laws for drugged driving closely mirror those for alcohol-impaired driving. Specially trained officers look for tell-tale signs of impairment, including weaving across lanes, slow driving, or failing to maintain proper distance between vehicles.

When a driver is pulled over, police assess physical signs such as bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, or unsteady movements. If these are observed, officers may proceed to field sobriety tests, supported by advanced evaluations and chemical screenings. That’s why you need to seek help from an Indiana PA criminal lawyer for the best assistance.

How Do Police Determine Drug Impairment?

Field Sobriety Tests and Observations

Officers typically initiate field sobriety tests to gauge impairment. A failure to pass these basic tests often leads to further scrutiny. And the best way to do that is to hire an Indiana PA DUI attorney right away.

Drug Recognition Evaluators (DREs)

Drug Recognition Evaluators (DREs) are trained specialists who analyze the presence and influence of drugs. Their assessments follow a meticulous, multi-step process that checks factors such as eye pupil dilation, blood pressure, pulse rate, and injection marks.

Chemical Testing

Chemical blood or urine tests offer another critical layer of evidence. These tests can confirm the presence of drugs, including prescription medications, in your system. Remember, even legal prescription drug impairment can lead to a DUI charge. Understanding such nuances underscores the need for an experienced Indiana PA criminal lawyer to defend your case.

What Are the Penalties for a Drugged Driving Conviction in Indiana, PA?

Drug-related DUI convictions fall into the highest tier of penalties in Pennsylvania’s DUI classification system. Below is a breakdown of sentencing for first, second, and third offenses:

First Offense

• Up to 6 months in prison
• Fines between $1,000 and $5,000
• A 1-year driver’s license suspension
• Enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school
• Optional participation in a court-approved treatment program

Second Offense

• 90 days to 5 years in prison
• Fines ranging from $1,500 to $10,000
• An 18-month driver’s license suspension
• Mandatory treatment and alcohol highway safety education
• Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for one year

Third Offense

• 1 to 5 years in prison
• Fines between $2,500 and $10,000
• 18-month license suspension
• Mandatory participation in a court-approved treatment program
• Installation of IID for one year

Consequences Beyond Legal Penalties

A DUI conviction leads to a permanent criminal record. This can hinder your career opportunities, inflate your car insurance premiums, and jeopardize your personal relationships. Additionally, if an impaired driving incident causes property damage, injury, or death, you could face civil lawsuits in addition to criminal penalties.

Steps to Take if You Are Pulled Over by Police

The way you respond during a traffic stop can affect the strength of your defense. Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do if suspected of driving under the influence of drugs:

• Do Not Resist Arrest

Stay calm and cooperative. Resisting arrest can escalate the situation.

• Avoid Admissions

Refrain from admitting to using drugs or alcohol, even casually. Your statements can be used against you later.

• Do Not Answer Questions Alone

Politely decline to answer questions or perform tests until your Indiana PA DUI attorney is present.

• Know Your Rights

You have a right to legal representation. Request a lawyer immediately if you believe your rights are being violated.

Common DUI Defenses in Indiana, PA

A skilled Indiana PA criminal lawyer will explore multiple angles to build your defense. Potential strategies include:

• Challenging the Traffic Stop

If the stop wasn’t lawful or checkpoints didn’t meet state requirements, any evidence collected might be inadmissible.

• Questioning Drug Impairment

Evidence might suggest that you were not impaired, despite a drug presence.

• Scrutinizing Test Accuracy

Your attorney can examine whether any testing equipment was miscalibrated or improperly used.

• Establishing Lack of Operation

They could argue you weren’t driving the vehicle at the time of the alleged offense.

Why You Need a Seasoned DUI Attorney in Indiana, PA

Drugged driving charges are complex, involving both scientific evidence and criminal statutes. An experienced Indiana PA DUI attorney from Logue Law Group can provide the following support:

• Detailed guidance at every stage of your case
• A thorough review of the evidence collection process
• Challenges to inappropriate stops, testing protocols, or procedural errors

Our team is equipped with the knowledge and tools to offer the strongest defense possible, minimizing the impact of a DUI charge on your future.

Take Action Today

Facing a DUI charge doesn’t have to define your life. Get the legal help you need by contacting Logue Law Group. Call (844) PITT-DUI or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation with a trusted Indiana PA criminal lawyer today. Protect your rights and safeguard your future—we’re here to fight for you.

That’s why you need to seek help from an Indiana PA DUI attorney for the best assistance.