Driving Under Influence of Drugs: Fines, Traffic Points and Defense

Driving under the influence of drugs is a broad category that can include both over the counter as well as prescription and illegal drugs, if the use of the drugs results in an impairment in the driver's ability to operate a motorized vehicle. As with an alcohol related charge, DUI with drugs is typically charged after a traffic stop due to inappropriate driving and is followed up by a blood or urine test after a field sobriety type of test. It is estimated that approximately 14 million Americans use illegal drugs and about 2% of the population uses prescription drugs for non-medical purposes.

Fines and Penalties

Just like alcohol related DUI, drug DUI charges are seen as very significant through the legal system. Most cases a first offense will result in fines of up to or more than $2000.00 plus up to 6 months in jail or both. In addition if drug paraphernalia or drugs are found in the vehicle or on the person, charges will increase dramatically, particularly the likelihood of significant jail time.

Points And Impact On Driving Record/License

In most cases a driver will immediately have their license suspended by the arresting officer, then the license can also be revoked by the judge if there is a record of prior arrests for the same or related offenses. In addition this type of charge will show on your driver's record and can result in ineligibility for many types of jobs and careers.

Hiring a Lawyer

Since there is not the same BAC levels that can be used to provide evidence for drug use, there is a better chance of an experienced attorney being able to help with getting charges dramatically reduced or even completely dropped. Hiring an attorney on any type of DUI charge is important as being found guilty can result in jail time, loss of employment, loss of your driver's license and loss of insurance or incredibly high insurance rates.

Got a Traffic Ticket?