Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs

Prescription medications are a lifeline for managing countless medical conditions. Yet, driving under the influence of these drugs poses significant risks. Many people are unaware that, in New Castle and across Pennsylvania, the law equates prescription medications with illegal drugs in DUI cases.

If you or a loved one has been charged with driving under the influence of prescription drugs, seeking immediate help from a skilled New Castle DUI attorney is critical. Their expertise can help you understand the legal landscape and protect your rights.

What You Need to Know

Understanding the penalties associated with DUI cases is essential. For example, testing at twice the legal limit of BAC can lead to severe consequences under Pennsylvania laws. Penalties include driver’s license suspension, jail time, and substantial fines.

Drugged Driving vs. Drunk Driving

The laws governing drugged driving are similar to those for drunk driving. Medications like Ambien, Ativan, and Xanax are frequently identified in such cases. Erratic driving behavior such as weaving between lanes, swerving, or significantly reduced speeds raises suspicion among law enforcement officers, prompting traffic stops.

Police officers are trained to look for signs of impairment like glassy eyes, slurred speech, and other physical indicators. They may conduct a Field Sobriety Test (FST) and collect blood or urine samples during their investigation.

Additionally, Drug Recognition Evaluators (DREs) play a vital role in identifying impairment caused by drugs. These specially trained officers perform thorough evaluations, including checking your pupil response, blood pressure, pulse, and conducting physical examinations. This process is all part of Pennsylvania’s stringent three-tier DUI penalty system.

DUI Penalty Tiers in Pennsylvania

1. First Offense

• Maximum six months imprisonment.
• Fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.
• One-year license suspension.
• Enrollment in an alcohol highway safety school.
• Potential requirement to join a treatment program.

2. Second Offense

• Jail time ranging from 90 days to five years.
• Fines between $1,500 and $10,000.
• An 18-month license suspension.
• Compulsory attendance at an alcohol highway safety school.
• Mandated treatment program enrollment.
• Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for one year.

3. Third Offense

• One to five years of imprisonment.
• Fines ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.
• An 18-month license suspension.
• Mandatory IID installation for one year.
• Requirement to participate in a treatment program.

A DUI conviction not only impacts one’s immediate circumstances but also leaves a permanent criminal record. This can hinder job opportunities, lead to increased insurance premiums, and complicate life further if there’s an accident resulting in injury or death. Such incidents could escalate the case to a civil trial.

How to Handle Police Encounters

Dealing with the police during a DUI stop requires care. Remember the following tips to protect your rights:

1. Do not attempt to flee the scene.
2. Avoid admitting to consuming drugs or alcohol.
3. Exercise your right to remain silent; speak only when your New Castle criminal lawyer is present.

Potential DUI Defenses

Driving under the influence of prescription drugs is illegal. However, a strong New Castle DUI attorney can present effective defenses such as:

• Disputing claims that you were the vehicle’s driver.
• Questioning the legality of the traffic stop or checkpoint procedures.
• Contending the claim that prescription drugs caused impairment.
• Challenging the proper calibration of testing equipment or the way tests were administered.

How a New Castle Criminal Lawyer Can Assist You

At Logue Law Group, our dedicated team of New Castle criminal lawyers is committed to delivering exceptional legal counsel and building a robust defense for your case. We will work diligently to challenge the evidence submitted against you, safeguard your rights, and strive for the most favorable outcome.

To schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced New Castle DUI attorneys, reach out to us online or call 844.PITT.DUI We’re here to help you face your legal challenges with confidence and clarity.