Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs

Prescription medications are essential for treating a wide variety of health issues and medical conditions. Yet, it is critical for drivers to recognize the dangers and legal risks involved with operating a vehicle while taking these drugs. Many people are surprised to learn that the law in Harrisburg, and across the entire state of Pennsylvania, views prescription medication impairment exactly the same as impairment by illegal narcotics in DUI cases.

If you or a family member has been charged with driving under the influence of prescription medication, it is imperative to secure immediate representation from a qualified Harrisburg DUI attorney. A legal professional with this specific experience understands the intricacies of these complex cases and can provide the necessary direction to navigate the legal system in Dauphin County.

What You Need To Know?

Grasping the potential repercussions of these charges is vital. If chemical testing reveals a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) twice the legal limit—or if drug metabolites are found—you are subject to strict state laws. The penalties for these violations are harsh and can include the suspension of your driver’s license, significant time in prison, and heavy financial fines.

Drugged Driving Vs Drunk Driving

It is important to note that the statutes governing drugged driving are virtually identical to those for drunk driving. Common prescription medications, such as Xanax, Ativan, and Ambien, are frequently identified as major factors in these arrests. When police officers notice erratic driving maneuvers, such as swerving, weaving across lanes, or traveling well below the speed limit, they have probable cause to initiate a traffic stop. During this interaction, they look for physical signs of impairment, including slurred speech or glassy eyes. They may then conduct a Field Sobriety Test and demand urine or blood samples.

In many cases, law enforcement will utilize specially trained Drug Recognition Evaluators to decide if a driver is impaired by medication. These experts utilize a systematic, multi-step protocol, closely observing physical indicators such as pulse rate, eye pupil size, and blood pressure. Because the prosecution builds a heavy case, consulting with a legal professional who also has experience as a Harrisburg federal criminal lawyer can provide a strategic advantage in dismantling these technical evaluations.

Pennsylvania’s Three-Tier System

Recognizing the gravity of driving under the influence of prescription drugs is the first step in your defense. Pennsylvania utilizes a three-tier system for penalties, and it is crucial to understand what you might face:

• First Offense: A conviction here can lead to a prison sentence of up to six months, monetary fines between $1,000 and $5,000, and a license suspension lasting one year. You will likely be required to attend alcohol highway safety school and potentially enroll in a treatment program.
• Second Offense: If you are facing a second charge, the consequences escalate. A Harrisburg DUI attorney will warn you that this could result in jail time ranging from 90 days to five years. Fines increase to between $1,500 and $10,000, and license suspension extends to 18 months. Mandatory requirements include alcohol highway safety school, treatment programs, and the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for one year.
• Third Offense: This carries the most extreme penalties, involving one to five years of imprisonment. Fines range from $2,500 to $10,000, accompanied by an 18-month license suspension. Mandatory treatment and the installation of an IID for one year are also required.

A conviction leaves a permanent mark on your criminal record, which can hinder future employment opportunities and drastically increase insurance premiums. If the incident involved an accident resulting in injury or death, the situation becomes significantly more complex, potentially leading to civil court trials.

How to Deal With Police

• Do not attempt to flee the scene of the arrest.
• Avoid admitting to having consumed drugs or alcohol.
• Exercise your right to remain silent. Do not provide statements unless you have a lawyer present. Even if you are looking for a Harrisburg federal criminal lawyer, ensuring you have local representation for the DUI stop is your first priority.

Your Probable Defense

Driving while impaired by prescription drugs is a crime, but there are defenses available. Strategies your lawyer might use include:

• Challenging the assertion that you were the one driving the vehicle.
• Questioning the validity of the traffic stop or adherence to DUI checkpoint protocols.
• Contesting the claim that the prescription drugs actually caused impairment.
• Disputing the calibration of testing equipment or the administration of the tests.

How Your Lawyer Will Help You?

At Logue Law Group, our team of dedicated Harrisburg federal criminal lawyers is committed to providing top-tier legal counsel and constructing the strongest possible defense for you. When you retain us, we work tirelessly to challenge the evidence collected against you, safeguarding your rights and fighting for the best possible resolution.

To arrange a free initial consultation with a skilled Harrisburg DUI attorney, contact us online or call 412-387-6901. We are here to help you navigate your legal challenges with confidence.