DUI charges are for more than drunk drivers

When you injured your back a few days ago, your doctor prescribed muscle relaxers. You are supposed to take two per day for the next ten days. Right on schedule, you took your second dose a couple of hours ago, but now you forgot to eat. In-N-Out Burger is just up the road, it will be a quick trip to go grab a burger and come home. Besides, you do not feel drowsy or incapacitated in any way. You were on your way home with your burger when a police officer pulled you over.

Charges for driving under the influence (DUI) are not limited to drunk drivers. A law enforcement officer can issue a DUI if he or she suspects a driver is under the influence of any kind of mind-altering substance. This includes drugs such as cocaine, LSD, marijuana and even legally obtained prescription drugs. If you have been charged with a DUI, you can fight the charges. A defense attorney in the Encino area can help you stand up against a DUI charge.

How do officers judge if you are under the influence?

When it comes to drunk drivers, officers have certain tests they can administer to judge whether a driver is intoxicated. Breathalyzers and Blood Alcohol Content tests can provide fairly accurate results. In cases where the driver is under the influence of other substances, other tests might provide positive results. Urine tests and bloodstream tests can have positive results for marijuana for weeks after use. However, there are no tests that accurately detect impairment.

There are some officers that are specially trained to judge whether or not a driver is under the influence of drugs. These officers will examine eye movements, the motorist\’s actions, and other factors to determine if there might be drugs in someone\’s system.

Prescription drug use

Some drugs, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, muscle relaxers and painkillers can have negative effects on drivers. They can often cause a driver to operate a vehicle in state similar to alcohol intoxication. Legally prescribed medicines and even medical marijuana can cause a driver to behave in an intoxicated manner and result in DUI charges. Unfortunately, possession of a legal prescription is not a defense to a DUI.

If you have been charged with a DUI, it is important to remember that you still have rights and options. A driving under the influence conviction can cause problems for years to come.

Source: Nov. 30, -0001