Driving Under the Influence of Drugs

Increasing Concern in Kittanning

While alcohol-related DUIs have long been a leading cause of substance abuse fatalities in Kittanning, there’s a rising concern over traffic incidents involving drug impairment. Recent statistics show a troubling increase in drug-related traffic fatalities. In response, Kittanning law enforcement is actively targeting this issue, frequently apprehending drivers under the influence of drugs. The consequences are severe, making it essential to have a skilled Kittanning criminal lawyer for your defense.

What You Need to Know

Under current law, you can be charged with DUI if any controlled substances or their metabolites are detected in your system, or if the combination of drugs and alcohol impairs your driving abilities. State laws for drugged driving closely resemble those for drunk driving. Officers are trained to identify signs of impairment that compromise road safety, such as weaving, driving too slowly, or failing to maintain distance from other vehicles. When stopped, police will look for physical signs of impairment, including glassy eyes and slurred speech.

Drug Recognition Evaluation and Testing

In addition to field sobriety tests, officers may use Drug Recognition Evaluators. These experts follow a detailed, multi-step procedure to identify drug impairment. They check for signs of drug use, such as needle marks, and assess factors like pupil response, blood pressure, and heart rate. The evaluation also includes specific tests designed for drug-related DUI cases.

Prescription Drugs and DUI Charges

Speaking with a knowledgeable Kittanning criminal attorney can provide insights into DUI charges related to prescription medications. It’s important to know that impairment from medication can lead to DUI charges. Drug-related convictions fall under the highest tier in a three-tier system, leading to strict penalties:

• First Offense – Up to 6 months in prison, fines between $1,000 and $5,000, one-year license suspension, and alcohol highway safety school. The court may also require a treatment program.
• Second Offense – 90 days to 5 years in prison, fines between $1,500 and $10,000, 18-month license suspension, mandatory alcohol highway safety school, treatment program, and 1-year Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirement.
• Third Offense – 1 to 5 years in prison, fines from $2,500 to $10,000, 18-month license suspension, treatment program, and IID installation for one year.

Long-Term Consequences

A DUI conviction results in a permanent criminal record, which can affect your career and increase car insurance premiums. If an accident causes injury or death, the situation becomes more complex, potentially leading to additional civil trials for damages.

What to Do When Pulled Over by Police

• Do not attempt to leave the scene.
• Avoid admitting to consuming alcohol or drugs.
• Refrain from answering questions or making statements without a Kittanning DUI lawyer present.

Your Defense Strategy

In drug-related driving cases, your Kittanning criminal lawyer will work to establish that:

• You were not the driver.
• The stop was unlawful or the DUI checkpoint did not meet standards.
• You were not impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Tests were conducted improperly or equipment was not calibrated correctly.

How Your Lawyer Will Assist You

Facing a driving under the influence of drugs charge requires the expertise of a seasoned Kittanning DUI attorney in Kittanning. Your Kittanning DUI lawyer will guide you through every stage of the trial, providing sound legal advice.

To schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced Kittanning criminal lawyer from Logue Law Group, contact us online or call (844) PITT-DUI.