Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs

Prescription drugs are integral to treating various health conditions. However, it’s essential to recognize that driving while influenced by these medications can pose significant risks. Contrary to widespread belief, the legal system in Somerset, and across Pennsylvania, treats driving under the influence of prescription drugs no differently than driving under the influence of illegal substances.

If you or someone you care about faces charges for driving under the influence of prescription medications, seeking immediate help from a qualified Somerset criminal lawyer is critical. Their expertise can help you understand and handle the intricacies of such cases, ensuring you receive the best possible guidance.

What You Need to Know

Understanding the ramifications of a DUI involving prescription drugs is necessary. Exceeding twice the legal limit of BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) in these instances can result in severe DUI penalties, including suspension of your driver’s license, incarceration, and substantial fines under state law.

Drugged Driving vs. Drunk Driving

The laws governing drugged driving mirror those that apply to drunk driving. Prescription medications like Ambien, Ativan, and Xanax are frequently linked to such offenses. Law enforcement officers are trained to identify driving behaviors such as weaving, swerving, or driving unusually slow as signs of impairment. After making a traffic stop, officers look for physical symptoms like glassy eyes or slurred speech.

They may conduct a Field Sobriety Test and request blood or urine samples to confirm the presence of drugs. To further assess impairment, specially trained officers known as Drug Recognition Evaluators undertake a thorough examination, monitoring physical indicators including pupil dilation, blood pressure, pulse rate, and other diagnostic markers.

These investigations emphasize the gravity of drugged driving and its consequences under Pennsylvania’s three-tier DUI penalty system.

Pennsylvania’s Three-Tier DUI Penalty System

1. First Offense

• Imprisonment: Up to six months
• Fines: Between $1,000 and $5,000
• License Suspension: One year
• Additional Requirements:
  • Enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school
  • Potential participation in a treatment program

2. Second Offense

• Imprisonment: 90 days to five years
• Fines: Between $1,500 and $10,000
• License Suspension: 18 months
• Additional Requirements:
  • Mandatory attendance at an alcohol highway safety school
  • Completion of a treatment program
  • Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for one year

3. Third Offense

• Imprisonment: One to five years
• Fines: Between $2,500 and $10,000
• License Suspension: 18 months
• Additional Requirements:
  • Enrollment in a treatment program
  • Installation of an IID for one year

Long-Term Impact

A DUI can result in a criminal record, adversely affecting job opportunities and leading to increased insurance premiums. More severe consequences could arise if an accident involving injury or death occurs, potentially leading to civil court trials.

A reliable Somerset DUI attorney can help you address such charges while protecting your rights and navigating legal complexities.

What to Do During a Police Encounter

• Do Not Attempt to Leave: Leaving during an arrest can escalate the situation.
• Avoid Self-Incrimination: Refrain from admitting to using drugs or alcohol.
• Exercise Your Right to Silence: Do not make statements without a Somerset DUI attorney present.

Common Defenses Against a DUI Charge

Here’s how your Somerset criminal lawyer might defend your case:

• Disputing Vehicle Operation: Challenging the claim that you were driving the vehicle.
• Questioning the Stop’s Legality: Ensuring DUI checkpoints adhered to proper legal standards.
• Contesting Drug Impairment Claims: Disputing evidence provided regarding drug-related impairment.
• Test Administration Errors: Questioning whether the tests were conducted correctly and if the equipment was calibrated accurately.

How Working With a Lawyer Can Help

At Logue Law Group, our team of diligent Somerset DUI attorneys is committed to providing exceptional legal representation. When you choose us, we work tirelessly to scrutinize and discredit evidence brought against you, ensuring your rights are protected and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case.

Free Consultation

To schedule your free initial consultation with one of our seasoned Somerset criminal lawyers, contact us online or call (844) PITT-DUI. Our team is here to help you face your legal challenges with confidence and the support you need.