Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs

Prescription medications play a vital role in treating a wide range of medical conditions. However, it is crucial to be aware of the serious risks associated with driving while under the influence of these medicines. Many people are unaware that in Morgantown, and throughout Pennsylvania, the law treats prescription drugs exactly the same as illegal substances in DUI cases. If your medication impairs your ability to drive safely, you can be charged.

If you or a loved one has been charged with driving under the influence of prescription drugs, it is vital to seek immediate assistance. Navigating the complexities of the legal system in Berks County requires professional guidance. It is essential to get help from a skilled Morgantown criminal lawyer who possesses the expertise to handle such sensitive cases and provide the necessary direction.

What You Need To Know

Understanding the consequences is essential. If you are found to be impaired—often measured against strict standards similar to testing twice the legal limit of BAC—you can face severe DUI penalties under state laws. These penalties are significant and may include license suspension, imprisonment, and hefty fines.

Drugged Driving Vs Drunk Driving

It is worth noting that the laws pertaining to drugged driving are quite similar to those for drunk driving. Common prescription drugs like Ambien, Ativan, and Xanax are often cited as significant contributors to these cases. When law enforcement officers in Morgantown observe erratic driving behavior, such as weaving, swerving, or driving below the speed limit, they may initiate a traffic stop. During the encounter, they will look for physical indicators such as glassy eyes and slurred speech. They may also administer a Field Sobriety Test and request blood or urine samples.

Officers utilize specially trained Drug Recognition Evaluators to determine if individuals are impaired by drugs. These evaluators employ a multi-step program, closely monitoring indicators such as eye pupils, blood pressure, and pulse rate, and conducting physical examinations. Because these evaluations can be complex, having a Morgantown DUI attorney on your side is critical. They can help you understand the severity of driving under the influence of prescription drugs and the potential consequences in Pennsylvania’s three-tier system.

First Offense

A conviction may result in up to six months of imprisonment, fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, a one-year license suspension, enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school, and potential enrollment in a treatment program.

Second Offense

If you face a second offense, penalties can include a jail sentence between 90 days and five years, fines ranging from $1,500 to $10,000, an 18-month license suspension, mandatory enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school, treatment program requirements, and the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for one year.

Third Offense

This offense carries the most severe repercussions. A Morgantown criminal lawyer will warn you that this includes one to five years of imprisonment, fines ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, an 18-month license suspension, mandatory enrollment in a treatment program, and the installation of an IID for one year.

A DUI conviction can lead to lasting consequences, such as a permanent criminal record impacting employment opportunities and increased insurance premiums. In the unfortunate event of an accident resulting in death or injury, matters become further complicated, potentially leading to a trial in a civil court.

How to Deal With Police

If you are stopped by police in Berks County, follow these guidelines:

• Refrain from attempting to leave the scene of the arrest.
• Avoid admitting to the consumption of alcohol or drugs.
• Exercise your right to remain silent and refrain from providing statements without a lawyer by your side.

Your Probable Defense

Driving is illegal under the influence of prescription drugs, but defenses exist. Possible defenses your Morgantown DUI attorney may employ include:

• Challenging the claim that you were the driver of the vehicle.
• Questioning the legality of the stop and the adherence to DUI checkpoint standards.
• Contesting impairment caused by prescription drugs.
• Questioning the proper administration of the test and calibration of equipment.

How Your Lawyer Will Help You

At Mountaineer Law Group, our team of skilled criminal lawyers is dedicated to providing exceptional legal counsel and the strongest defense for your case. When you choose us, we will diligently work to discredit any evidence gathered against you, protecting your rights and advocating for the best possible outcome.

We understand the local legal landscape. By hiring a Morgantown criminal lawyer from our group, you ensure you have a dedicated advocate. To schedule a free initial consultation with one of our experienced attorneys, contact us online or call (304) 381-3656. We are here to help you navigate your legal challenges with confidence.