Arizona DUI (Drugs) on The Increase
Not everyone realizes that if you are suspected of driving under the influence of drugs, even prescription drugs, you can be charged with DUI. It’s true—if an officer has probable cause to believe you are impaired by any controlled substance, you can be arrested and charged with the crime commonly only thought of as being associated with drinking alcohol.
This article from the Arizona Republic points out that cases like this are on the rise. In 1999 they numbered 4,400. In 2009, ten years later, that number was 14,700.
Police treat a DUI caused by drugs similarly to the ones involving alcohol. Once they have probable cause (swerving, erratic driving), they can pull you over and perform a field sobriety test. Back at the station a blood sample is taken and sent to a lab for evaluation.
The fact is: even if you are prescribed a drug, if that drug causes you to operate your vehicle in an unsafe manner, you can face DUI charges.
For a first DUI charge, whether it was alcohol or drugs, you will face Class 1 misdemeanor charges. This carries a potential 10 days to 6 months in jail, fines, community service, probation, drivers license suspension, ignition interlock device, and the potential for drug treatment.
If the arrest involves drugs you will likely be required to undergo an evaluation to establish if you have a drug problem. If so, the judge may order treatment as part of your sentence. As the number of prior DUI convictions on your record mount, so do the penalties.
Prescription drug abuse doesn’t have the stigma that illegal drugs do. Although the risks are similar, the abuse of prescription drugs is steadily climbing throughout the country. In addition to DUI charges, you could face additional possession charges if you have the drugs on you.
When facing DUI charges, whether because of drugs or drinking, you need an aggressive defense lawyer on your side. Contact me today for a consultation on your case.
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