Driving While Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs
When people think of driving under the influence, they tend to think of alcohol use. However, intoxication can also come about in the form of using drugs – even prescription drugs.
Even if the drugs you are using are legal, you could still become “buzzed.” You may notice that some medications warm you not to operate machinery while using them. This is because they can make you dizzy or sleepy, which can affect driving.
Driving while impaired by drugs or other substances is not only unsafe but also illegal. Driving impaired by any substance is against the law in all 50 states. Law enforcement officers are trained to identify impaired drivers by observing the behavior of drivers. Marijuana use is not legal in Texas, but even in states where marijuana use is legal, it is still illegal to drive while under the influence of it. Prescription drugs are also included under driving under the Influence laws.
This is important to understand because drug prevalence is on the rise among drivers. Many people seem to think that marijuana has no effect on them and they can still drive properly without any issues. However, studies do not agree with this. Marijuana impairs motor skills, lane tracking, and cognitive functions. In addition, the THC in marijuana hurts a driver’s ability to multitask, which is necessary while behind the wheel. Marijuana users are more likely to be involved in car accidents.
Prescription drugs may be legally prescribed to you, but you still need to use them with caution. Prescription drugs, such as opioids, sedatives, and certain antidepressants, can impair your motor skills, reaction time, and judgment. They can cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or confusion, which can make driving unsafe.
Even though police officers cannot measure blood alcohol content (BAC) to measure drug use and impairment, law enforcement may use other methods to determine impairment, such as field sobriety tests, blood tests, or urine tests.
Penalties for a DUI include fines, license suspension, mandatory education programs, and even jail time. A DUI conviction can lead to higher auto insurance premiums. In addition, you can be held liable for accidents caused while impaired.
How to Avoid a DUI
- Read labels. Pay attention to warnings on medication labels about operating machinery or driving.
- Consult your doctor. Discuss the potential side effects of your medication and how it might affect your ability to drive.
- Avoid mixing substances. Combining prescription drugs with alcohol or other substances can increase impairment.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Drug use is illegal while behind the wheel. It doesn’t matter if you are using marijuana, cocaine, or a painkiller. You could face legal trouble if you are deemed intoxicated.
Intoxication can also lead to a crash. If you have been affected, seek legal help from a Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. We can guide you through the process from start to finish and deal with your insurance company if necessary. Schedule a consultation by filling out the online form or calling 281-347-3247.
Source:
nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drug-impaired-driving
