People usually associate an impaired driving charge with alcohol, but it’s also possible to face this charge if you’re impaired by drugs. There are many considerations for this so it’s imperative that anyone who is taking any types of drugs has a good understanding of what this means.
One important fact to know is that drugged driving charges can stem from any type of drugs. This includes:
- Over-the-counter medications
- Prescription drugs
- Illegal substances
You can even face drugged driving charges if you have a prescription. The only way to avoid drugged driving charges is to not take anything that will impair your ability to drive safely.
Some drugs and medications come with warnings that tell users not to try to operate heavy machinery after taking them. Others might warn of drowsiness or dizziness. All of these are indications that you shouldn’t drive after you consume them unless you know that you aren’t going to have those side effects.
When you’re pulled over for the suspicion of impaired driving, the officer will try to find out what’s going on. Currently, there aren’t widespread tests that can clue them into drug impairment in the same manner that they can determine when a person’s been drinking alcohol.
If you’re charged with impaired driving based on drugs, the officers might rely on blood or urine tests to determine what’s in your system. This isn’t always indicative of how impaired you are at the moment. For example, marijuana can remain in the system for longer than the impairment lasts. Your criminal defense strategy will include these nuances, so speak to your attorney to find out what options you have.
