Driving Under the Influence of Drugs

Drug impairment is increasingly becoming a significant concern on roads in New Castle. While alcohol-related DUIs have long dominated substance abuse traffic violations, recent reports indicate a troubling rise in accidents caused by driving under the influence of drugs. Law enforcement in New Castle has intensified efforts to apprehend those involved in drugged driving, with offenders facing severe legal repercussions. This is why it’s essential to consult an experienced DUI attorney who can provide strong legal representation and guidance through this challenging process.

What You Need to Know About Drugged Driving

Under Pennsylvania law, you can be charged with DUI if detectable levels of controlled substances or their metabolites are found in your bloodstream, or if your driving abilities are impaired by a combination of drugs and alcohol. Laws governing drugged driving in New Castle mirror those related to drunk driving, holding impaired drivers to high safety standards.

Law enforcement officers are rigorously trained to identify signs of impairment that could endanger road users. Key indicators include:

• Swerving or weaving between lanes,
• Maintaining speeds noticeably below the speed limit, and
• Failing to keep a safe distance from other vehicles.

When police pull over a suspect, they assess physical signs of drug abuse such as:

• Glassy or bloodshot eyes,
• Slurred speech, and
• Impaired motor coordination.

Additionally, drivers may be subjected to field sobriety tests, blood tests, and urine tests. Law enforcement often involves trained Drug Recognition Evaluators (DREs) who follow a strict, multi-step process to identify drug impairment. Evaluations include examining physical signs like injection marks, checking pupil reaction, and assessing blood pressure and pulse levels. Unique sobriety tests specifically designed to test for drug influence may also be performed.

Penalties for Drugged Driving in New Castle

Drug-related DUI convictions in Pennsylvania are assigned the highest tier penalties within the state’s three-tier system. These penalties are harsh and can have a lasting impact on your personal and professional life:

First Offense

• Up to six months in prison,
• Fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000,
• One-year license suspension,
• Mandatory enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school, and
• Possible court-ordered participation in a treatment program.

Second Offense

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

Third Offense

• One to five years in prison,
• Fines ranging from $2,500 to $10,000,
• 18-month license suspension,
• Court-mandated participation in a treatment program, and
• One year IID installation.

It’s crucial to understand that a DUI conviction results in a permanent criminal record, potentially affecting your employment prospects and significantly increasing car insurance premiums. If a drugged driving incident involves injuries or fatalities, the legal consequences become even more severe, often leading to civil court lawsuits for damages.

What to Do if You’re Pulled Over

If you are stopped by police for suspected drugged driving in New Castle, follow these crucial steps to protect your rights:

• Do not walk away from the scene, no matter the circumstances.
• Avoid admitting to using alcohol or drugs, as this may be used against you in court.
• Refrain from answering questions or making statements without first consulting a New Castle criminal lawyer. An attorney can help protect your interests during the investigation.

Your Possible Defenses

An experienced New Castle DUI attorney will work tirelessly to build a strong defense for your case. Potential defenses for driving under the influence of drugs include:

• You were not driving the vehicle at the time of the incident.
• The stop was unlawful, or the DUI checkpoint did not meet required legal standards.
• Evidence shows that you were not impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Tests were improperly conducted, or the equipment used was not calibrated correctly.

How Your New Castle DUI Attorney Will Assist You

Drugged driving offenses involve complex legal processes and require the expertise of a seasoned New Castle criminal lawyer. From initial consultations to courtroom representation, your attorney will:

• Analyze all evidence,
• Provide clear and concise legal advice,
• Work to reduce or dismiss charges, and
• Advocate for the best possible outcome on your behalf.

Take the First Step Today

Facing a DUI charge in New Castle can be an overwhelming experience, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Secure the assistance of an experienced New Castle DUI attorney who will fight to protect your rights and prevent long-term consequences.

To schedule afree initial consultation with a trusted lawyer from the Logue Law Group, contact us online or call (844) PITT-DUI today. Safeguard your future with the right legal representation.