Driving Under the Influence of Drugs

A Growing Concern in Philadelphia

Alcohol-related DUIs have historically been a major cause of substance abuse-related deaths. However, there is now a disturbing increase in traffic accidents and fatalities caused by drug impairment. Law enforcement officials in Philadelphia are stepping up their efforts to combat this problem, frequently arresting individuals who are driving under the influence of drugs. Given the strict penalties for drug-related DUIs, getting representation from a skilled lawyer is essential to building a solid defense.

Understanding Drug-Related DUI Laws

What Counts as a Drugged Driving Offense?

Under Pennsylvania state laws, you can be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) if controlled substances or their metabolites are found in your blood, or if a mix of drugs and alcohol affects your ability to drive safely. The laws for drug-related DUIs are almost the same as those for drunk driving. Police officers look for signs of impairment that endanger road safety, such as weaving between lanes, driving too slowly, and following other cars too closely.

When you are pulled over, officers will check for signs like slurred speech and glassy eyes. They may also conduct field sobriety tests or ask for blood and urine samples, often with help from Drug Recognition Evaluators (DREs). If you find yourself in this situation, a Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer can provide the guidance you need.

The Role of Drug Recognition Evaluators (DREs)

Drug Recognition Evaluators have special training to spot drug impairment. Their multi-step evaluation includes looking for physical signs of drug use, such as needle marks, checking if pupils are dilated, and measuring blood pressure and pulse rate. DREs also use specific field sobriety tests designed to detect drug impairment.

Key Point: Even prescription medication can lead to DUI charges if they affect your driving. Talking to a Philadelphia federal attorney can help clarify these charges and build a strong legal defense.

Penalties for Drugged Driving in Philadelphia

Drug-related convictions in Philadelphia fall into the most severe category of a three-tier system. Here is what you could face based on the number of offenses:

First Offense

• Prison Sentence: Up to 6 months
• Fines: $1,000 to $5,000
• License Suspension: 12 months
• Additional Requirements: You must attend alcohol highway safety school and may need to join a treatment program.

Second Offense

• Prison Sentence: 90 days to 5 years
• Fines: $1,500 to $10,000
• License Suspension: 18 months
• Additional Requirements: You must enroll in an alcohol safety class, a treatment program, and use an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for one year. Consulting with a Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer is highly recommended if you are facing a second offense.

Third Offense

• Prison Sentence: 1 to 5 years
• Fines: $2,500 to $10,000
• License Suspension: 18 months
• Additional Requirements: You must participate in a treatment program and install an IID for a year.

A DUI conviction leaves a mark on your criminal record, which can hurt your job prospects and raise your car insurance rates. If an accident causes injury or death, you could also face a civil lawsuit for damages. Hiring an experienced Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer is crucial for handling these charges.

Steps to Take When Pulled Over

If an officer stops you because they suspect you are impaired by drugs or alcohol, it is important to stay calm and smart. Follow these tips to protect your rights:

• Do Not Resist Arrest: Be cooperative with the officer, but do not offer extra information.
• Avoid Admissions: Do not admit to using drugs or alcohol.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Do not make any statements without a qualified Philadelphia federal attorney present to guide you through the legal process.

Legal Defenses for Drug-Related DUIs

Potential Defense Strategies

An experienced Philadelphia federal attorney can review the details of your case and find possible defenses, such as:

• You Were Not Driving: Proving that you were not the one driving when the incident happened.
• Unlawful Stop: Arguing that the traffic stop or DUI checkpoint did not follow legal rules.
• Lack of Impairment: Showing that drugs or alcohol did not affect your driving.
• Testing Irregularities: Pointing out mistakes in testing procedures or equipment that was not calibrated correctly.

How a Philadelphia DUI Attorney Can Help

Dealing with DUI charges for drug impairment requires the legal skills of experienced attorneys. A capable Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer will guide you through the legal system, making sure your rights are protected and working to get the best possible result for your case.

To schedule a free consultation with a skilled Philadelphia federal attorney at Logue Law Group, contact us online or call (844) PITT-DUI today.