Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs

Prescription drugs are vital for managing numerous health issues. However, using them comes with potential risks, especially when getting behind the wheel. Many people don’t realize that in Steubenville, and across Ohio, driving under the influence of prescribed medication is treated just as seriously as driving under the influence of illegal drugs.

If you or someone you care about is facing charges for driving under the influence of prescription medication, it is crucial to get help from a knowledgeable criminal lawyer right away. They have the necessary experience to handle the complexities of these cases and provide the guidance you need.

What You Need to Know

It’s important to understand the potential penalties. If you are found to have twice the legal limit of Blood Alcohol Content (BAC), you could face significant DUI penalties under state law. These consequences often include a suspended driver’s license, jail time, and substantial fines. A qualified Steubenville DUI attorney can help you understand your specific situation.

Drugged Driving vs. Drunk Driving

The laws for drugged driving are very similar to those for drunk driving. Prescription medications such as Ambien, Ativan, and Xanax are frequently involved in these types of cases. If a law enforcement officer observes signs of impaired driving, like weaving, swerving, or driving unusually slowly, they may pull you over. During this traffic stop, the officer will look for physical signs of impairment, such as glassy eyes or slurred speech. They might also conduct a Field Sobriety Test and ask for a blood or urine sample.

To determine if a person is impaired by drugs, officers often use specially trained Drug Recognition Evaluators (DREs). These experts follow a detailed, multi-step process. They check various indicators including the pupils of the eyes, blood pressure, pulse rate, and also conduct physical examinations. Understanding the seriousness of these charges is vital, as Ohio uses a multi-tiered system for penalties. Hiring a Steubenville criminal lawyer can be crucial in navigating this system.

First Offense

A first-time conviction can lead to up to six months in jail, fines between $1,000 and $5,000, and a license suspension for one year. You may also be required to attend an alcohol highway safety school and could be ordered into a treatment program.

Second Offense

For a second offense, the penalties become more severe. You could face a jail sentence from 90 days up to five years, fines ranging from $1,500 to $10,000, and an 18-month license suspension. It is also mandatory to attend an alcohol highway safety school, complete a treatment program, and have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in your vehicle for one year. A Steubenville DUI attorney can help fight these charges.

Third Offense

A third offense carries the harshest consequences. This can include one to five years in prison, fines from $2,500 to $10,000, and an 18-month license suspension. You will also be required to complete a mandatory treatment program and use an IID for one year.

A DUI conviction can have long-lasting effects on your life. It can result in a permanent criminal record, which may affect your job prospects and cause your insurance premiums to increase. If an accident occurs that leads to injury or death, the situation becomes even more serious and could result in a civil court trial. A Steubenville criminal lawyer is essential in these complex cases.

How to Interact with Police

• Do not try to flee the scene of the arrest.
• Do not admit to taking any alcohol or drugs.
• Use your right to remain silent. Do not give any statements without a Steubenville DUI attorney present.

Your Potential Defense

Driving while impaired by prescription medication is illegal. However, there are several defense strategies your lawyer may consider:

• Challenging the assertion that you were the one driving the vehicle.
• Questioning whether the traffic stop was legal and if DUI checkpoint procedures were followed correctly.
• Disputing the claim that your driving ability was impaired by the prescription drugs.
• Arguing that the sobriety tests were not administered properly or that the equipment was not correctly calibrated.

How Your Lawyer Will Help You

At Logue Law Group, our team of dedicated Steubenville criminal lawyers is committed to providing outstanding legal representation and building the strongest possible defense for your case. When you hire us, we will meticulously examine all the evidence against you, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible resolution.

To arrange a free initial consultation with one of our experienced lawyers, contact us online or call (844) PITT-DUI. We are ready to help you face your legal challenges with confidence.