You may associate a DUI charge with alcohol consumption. However, other substances may impair your driving ability and result in criminal charges. Driving under the influence of drugs is more common than you may think.
According to a 2016 survey, 11.8 million Americans drove while on illegal drugs. However, it is not just illegal drugs that may cause a DUI charge. Prescription medications and over-the-counter medicines may also affect your ability to safely operate a vehicle. Here is an overview of how drugs may lead to a DUI arrest.
Illicit drugs
Some unlawful drugs that may impair you include:
- Marijuana
- Methamphetamine
- MDMA
- Heroin
- Cocaine
- LSD
These drugs may cause a variety of impairments, including recklessness, hallucinations, delusion, and tremors.
Prescription medications
Misusing prescription drugs may make it unsafe for you to drive a car. The following types of prescription medications may adversely affect your driving abilities:
- Sleeping pills
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety drugs
- Painkillers
These may result in various side effects, including drowsiness, blurry vision and slow reaction times. Make sure you follow all directions for any drugs that are prescribed to you and avoid taking medications that are not yours.
OTC medicines
Even certain drugs you can easily purchase at the store without a prescription may negatively influence your ability to operate a car. You may take OTC drugs for a cold, the flu or allergies. Some of these medicines may cause similar effects to prescription drugs.
Other charges
If you are arrested for DUI drugged driving, you could also face a drug possession charge as well. If convicted, you may face even harsher such as prison time and hefty fines.
The justice system does not take drugged driving lightly. If you are facing a DUI Drug charge, get an experienced attorney to defend you.