Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs

Prescription medications play an essential role in managing and treating various medical conditions. However, it’s critical to understand the risks and legal implications associated with driving under the influence of these substances. Many people don’t realize that, under Pennsylvania law, prescription drugs are treated the same as illegal substances in DUI cases. This applies throughout the state, including in Mercer.

If you or someone you care about has been charged with driving under the influence of prescription drugs, seeking immediate legal assistance from a skilled DUI attorney or criminal lawyer is crucial. These professionals have the expertise to guide you through the legal complexities and build a robust defense.

What You Need to Know

Understanding the potential penalties and legal consequences of driving under the influence of prescription drugs is vital. If your blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeds legal limits or you’re found impaired by medications, you can face severe DUI penalties under Pennsylvania state laws. These penalties might include fines, license suspension, and imprisonment, among others.

Drugged Driving and Drunk Driving Similarities

The laws surrounding drugged driving closely mirror those for drunk driving. Prescription drugs like Ambien, Ativan, and Xanax are commonly cited as contributors to impaired driving incidents. Law enforcement officers are trained to identify suspicious driving behaviors such as weaving, swerving, or moving at unusually slow speeds.

If stopped, officers may look for physical signs of impairment, such as glassy eyes or slurred speech. They might also conduct a Field Sobriety Test or request urine or blood samples. To further determine impairment, police often rely on experts known as Drug Recognition Evaluators who follow a multi-step process, checking factors like pupil dilation, blood pressure, pulse rate, and other physical indicators.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s DUI Penalties for Prescription Drugs

If you’re a Mercer County resident facing DUI charges involving prescription drugs, it’s crucial to consult a Mercer Criminal Lawyer who understands the local legal system. Pennsylvania’s three-tier penalty system applies even when legal drugs cause impairment. Here’s a breakdown of what you might face:

First Offense

• Imprisonment: Up to 6 months
• Fines: $1,000–$5,000
• License Suspension: 1 year
• Additional Requirements:
  • Enrollment in alcohol highway safety school
  • Potential participation in a treatment program

Second Offense

• Imprisonment: 90 days to 5 years
• Fines: $1,500–$10,000
• License Suspension: 18 months
• Additional Requirements:
  • Enrollment in alcohol highway safety school
  • Mandatory treatment programs
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for 1 year

Third Offense

• Imprisonment: 1 to 5 years
• Fines: $2,500–$10,000
• License Suspension: 18 months
• Additional Requirements:
  • Participation in a treatment program
  • Installation of an IID for 1 year

A DUI conviction carries long-term implications that extend beyond legal penalties, such as a permanent criminal record, higher insurance premiums, and potential harm to employment opportunities. Furthermore, DUI cases that involve accidents resulting in injuries or fatalities could lead to civil lawsuits, significantly complicating the legal proceedings.

How to Respond During a Police Stop

If you are stopped by police on suspicion of driving under the influence, remember the following:

• Do not attempt to flee or leave the scene. This could worsen your legal situation.
• Do not admit to using drugs or alcohol. It’s wise to remain silent instead.
• Exercise your right to remain silent. Wait until your Mercer DUI attorney is present to provide any statements.

Developing Your Defense

Driving while impaired by prescription drugs is a serious offense, but a skilled criminal lawyer can develop a strong defense for your case. Potential strategies may include:

• Disputing the claim that you were driving the vehicle.
• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop or compliance with DUI checkpoint standards.
• Contesting whether your level of impairment was caused by prescription drugs.
• Questioning whether proper testing procedures and equipment calibration were followed.

How Your Lawyer Can Help

At Logue Law Group, our dedicated team of Mercer criminal lawyers specializes in providing top-tier legal representation tailored to your specific needs. By thoroughly analyzing every detail of your case, we work diligently to challenge the evidence against you and protect your rights.

We understand what’s at stake, and we will guide you every step of the way to ensure the best possible outcome.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

If you’re facing charges for prescription drug DUI in Mercer, don’t wait to get the legal support you need. Contact our team of experienced Mercer DUI attorneys today to schedule a free initial consultation. Call us at (844) PITT-DUI or fill out the contact form on our website. You don’t have to face this alone—we’re here to help.