Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs

Prescription drugs play a crucial role in treating various medical conditions. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with driving under the influence of these medications. Contrary to popular belief, the law in Pittsburgh, and throughout Pennsylvania, treats prescription drugs no differently than illegal substances in DUI cases.

If you or a loved one has been charged with driving under the influence of prescription drugs, it is vital to seek immediate assistance from a skilled Pittsburgh Drugged Driving Lawyer. They possess the expertise to navigate the complexities of such cases and provide the necessary guidance.

What You Need To Know?

Understanding the consequences is essential. In the event of testing twice the legal limit of BAC, you can face severe DUI penalties as per state laws. These 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. Prescription drugs like Ambien, Ativan, and Xanax are often cited as significant contributors to such cases. When law enforcement officers 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, pulse rate, and conducting physical examinations. Understanding the severity of driving under the influence of prescription drugs, it is crucial to be aware of 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, including 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

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

Your Probable Defense

Driving is illegal under the influence of prescription drugs. Possible defenses your drugged driving lawyer 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 Logue Law Group, our team of skilled Pittsburgh 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.

To schedule a free initial consultation with one of our experienced Pittsburgh criminal lawyers, contact us online or call (844) PITT-DUI or 412-389-0805. We are here to help you navigate your legal challenges with confidence.