Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs in Erie

Prescription drugs are essential for managing various medical conditions. However, driving under the influence of these medications can lead to dangerous situations and legal consequences. According to Pennsylvania law, prescription drugs are treated in the same way as illegal substances in DUI cases.

If you or a loved one is facing charges for driving under the influence of prescription drugs in Erie, seeking immediate advice from an experienced Erie DUI attorney at Logue Law Group is critical. Our team has the expertise to guide you through the complex legal process and provide you with a strong defense.

What You Need to Know About DUI Penalties in Erie County

Understanding the potential penalties is vital. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level is found to be twice the legal limit under testing, you may face penalties such as license suspension, steep fines, and even imprisonment.

DUI Penalties in Pennsylvania’s Three-Tier System

First Offense

• Up to six months of imprisonment.
• Fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.
• One-year license suspension.
• Enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school.
• Possible treatment program enrollment.

Second Offense

• Jail time of 90 days to five years.
• Fines between $1,500 and $10,000.
• 18-month license suspension.
• Enrollment in a treatment program and highway safety school.
• Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for one year.

Third Offense

• Imprisonment of one to five years.
• Fines ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.
• 18-month license suspension.
• Mandatory treatment program participation.
• IID installation for a year.

A DUI conviction can have lasting consequences, including higher insurance premiums, a permanent criminal record, and limited employment opportunities. Additionally, if an accident involving death or injury occurs, it may result in severe complications, including civil court trials.

Drugged Driving vs. Drunk Driving

The laws for drugged driving closely resemble those for drunk driving. Common prescription drugs like Ambien, Ativan, and Xanax often contribute to cases of impaired driving. Erratic driving behaviors, such as swerving or driving significantly below the speed limit, often prompt law enforcement officers to initiate traffic stops.

Once stopped, officers may look for signs such as glassy eyes or slurred speech. Field Sobriety Tests, blood, or urine samples may also be required. Trained Drug Recognition Evaluators (DREs) may step in to assess impairment using a multi-step process, which includes examining eye movement, pulse rate, and blood pressure, among other factors.

Essential Tips for Handling a Police Encounter

If you’re stopped under suspicion of driving under the influence in Erie County, follow these essential tips to protect yourself legally and minimize complications:

• Avoid attempting to leave the scene of your arrest.
• Do not admit to consuming alcohol or drugs.
• Exercise your right to remain silent and refrain from making any statements without having your Erie criminal lawyer from Logue Law Group present.

Your Possible Defense Options

Driving under the influence of prescription drugs is illegal, but it doesn’t mean your case is without hope. An Erie DUI attorney can analyze your case and explore several potential defense strategies, such as:

• Challenging evidence that identifies you as the driver of the vehicle.
• Questioning the legality of the initial stop or the adherence to DUI checkpoint regulations.
• Contesting the claim that your prescription drugs caused impairment.
• Challenging the accuracy of test results, including calibration issues with equipment.

How the Logue Law Group Can Help

At Logue Law Group, our team of skilled Erie criminal lawyers is committed to being your advocacy partner throughout the legal process. We work diligently to challenge the evidence against you, protect your rights, and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

Why Choose Us?

• Personalized legal strategies tailored to each unique DUI case.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Erie County laws and regulations.
• Proven track record in defending drugged driving charges.

To schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced Erie DUI attorney, contact Logue Law Group online or call (844) PITT-DUI. With us by your side, you can confidently tackle any legal challenges.

When you or someone you care about faces a DUI charge in Erie County, remember that the consequences can be serious—but so can your defense. Partner with Logue Law Group for expert guidance, unwavering support, and the strongest possible defense.