Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs

Prescription drugs play a crucial role in treating various medical conditions. However, it’s important to understand the risks associated with driving while using these medications. Contrary to what some might think, the law in Kittanning, and across Pennsylvania, treats prescription drugs the same as illegal substances in DUI cases.

Why You Need Legal Assistance

If you or someone you know is facing charges for driving under the influence of prescription drugs, it’s crucial to get help from an experienced Kittanning DUI lawyer immediately. They have the necessary skills to handle these complex cases and can offer the guidance you need.

What You Need to Know

Understanding the implications is vital. Testing above the legal BAC limit can lead to severe DUI penalties under state laws. These may include license suspension, imprisonment, and significant fines.

Drugged Driving vs. Drunk Driving

The laws for drugged driving are quite similar to those for drunk driving. Prescription drugs like Ambien, Ativan, and Xanax often play a major role in such cases. If law enforcement sees erratic driving, such as weaving, swerving, or driving below the speed limit, they may stop you. Officers might look for signs like glassy eyes or slurred speech and might conduct a Field Sobriety Test, asking for blood or urine samples.

Specially trained officers, known as Drug Recognition Evaluators, assess whether drivers are impaired by drugs. They use a multi-step process, checking indicators like pupil size, blood pressure, pulse rate, and conducting physical exams. Understanding the serious implications of driving under the influence of prescription drugs is essential, especially within Pennsylvania’s three-tier system.

Penalties Based on Offenses

• First Offense
  • Up to six months in prison
  • Fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000
  • One-year license suspension
  • Alcohol highway safety school enrollment
  • Possible treatment program enrollment
• Second Offense
  • Jail time between 90 days and five years
  • Fines ranging from $1,500 to $10,000
  • 18-month license suspension
  • Mandatory alcohol highway safety school
  • Required treatment programs
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for one year
• Third Offense
  • One to five years of imprisonment
  • Fines ranging from $2,500 to $10,000
  • 18-month license suspension
  • Mandatory treatment programs
  • Installation of an IID for a year

A DUI conviction can have long-lasting repercussions, such as a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment opportunities and lead to increased insurance premiums. In cases of accidents causing death or injury, the situation becomes even more complicated, possibly resulting in civil court trials.

How to Handle Police Interactions

• Do not attempt to flee from an arrest.
• Avoid admitting to the use of alcohol or drugs.
• Exercise your right to remain silent and avoid making statements without having a Kittanning criminal lawyer present.

Your Potential Defense Strategies

Driving under the influence of prescription drugs is illegal. A Kittanning DUI lawyer can use several possible defenses:

• Challenging the claim that you were driving the vehicle.
• Questioning the legality of the stop and adherence to DUI checkpoint standards.
• Contesting claims of impairment due to prescription drugs.
• Questioning the proper administration and calibration of tests and equipment.

How Your Lawyer Can Assist

At Logue Law Group, our skilled Kittanning criminal lawyers are committed to providing outstanding legal counsel and a robust defense for your case. When you choose us, we work diligently to challenge any evidence against you, ensuring your rights are protected and striving for the best possible outcome.

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