Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs

Prescription drugs are of utmost importance in the treatment of various medical conditions. However, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with driving under the influence of these medications. Contrary to common belief, in Butler and throughout Pennsylvania, prescription drugs are treated 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, immediate assistance from a skilled Butler Drugged Driving Lawyer is vital. They possess the expertise to navigate the complexities of such cases and provide necessary guidance.

What You Need To Know?

Understanding the consequences is essential. If you test twice the legal limit of BAC, you may face severe DUI penalties according to state laws. These penalties can 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. Additionally, they may administer a Field Sobriety Test and request blood or urine samples.

Officers in Pennsylvania employ specially trained Drug Recognition Evaluators to determine drug impairment. Through a meticulous multi-step program, these evaluators closely monitor indicators such as eye pupils, blood pressure, pulse rate, and conduct physical examinations. Driving under the influence of prescription drugs can have severe consequences within Pennsylvania’s three-tier system.

• First Offense – A conviction may result in imprisonment for up to six months, 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 – Penalties for a second offense can include a jail sentence ranging from 90 days to 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 – The most severe repercussions are associated with a third offense, including imprisonment for one to five years, 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 have 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 even more complex, potentially leading to a civil trial.

How to Deal With Police

• Do not attempt to flee 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 Butler PA DUI Lawyer by your side.

Your Probable Defense

Driving under the influence of prescription drugs is illegal. If you find yourself in this situation, it is crucial to have a strong defense. Here are some strategies that your drugged driving lawyer may employ:

• Challenging the claim that you were the driver of the vehicle.
• Questioning the legality of the stop and ensuring adherence to DUI checkpoint standards.
• Contesting impairment caused by prescription drugs.
• Examining the proper administration of the test and calibration of equipment.

How Our Lawyer Will Help You?

At Logue Law Group, our team of skilled Butler PA criminal lawyers is committed to providing exceptional legal counsel and a robust defense for your case. When you choose us, we will diligently work to discredit any evidence gathered against you, safeguarding your rights and advocating for the best possible outcome.

Schedule a free initial consultation with one of our experienced Butler PA criminal lawyers today. You can contact us online or call (844) PITT-DUI. We are here to help you navigate your legal challenges with confidence.