Can You Get a DUI for Prescription Drugs?

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Basic Information About DUID Charges in California

Driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) is a serious criminal charge in our state. The court uses two primary charges to prosecute DUID. These charges include:

• Vehicle Code 23152(f)
• Vehicle Code 23152(g)

The court system defines the drugs associated with these charges. Drugs are substances that can impair a person’s ability to operate a vehicle in a reasonable way by impairing their:

• Nervous system
• Brain
• Muscles

In many cases, DUID charges apply to drivers who operate a vehicle after taking illegal drugs. However, this is not the only situation where DUID charges apply.

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DUID Charges and Prescription Medications

You can face DUID charges if you drive after using certain prescription drugs. Pain medications like Oxycontin can lead to DUI charges in California. Drivers can also face criminal charges if they operate a vehicle after using sleeping medications, like Ambien, or marijuana.

While medications have legitimate medical benefits, they can also have side effects. Sleeping medications, for instance, can make drivers drowsy. Drowsy drivers have a more difficult time focusing on the road, which can impair their ability to drive.

These are only examples of prescription medications that can lead to DUID charges. Review all medications that can lead to a DUID charge by contacting the Simmrin Law Group. Just call (310) 896-2723 to get started.

DUID Charges and Over-the-Counter Medications

You can face DUID charges for driving after taking certain over-the-counter medications. Some of these medications can also impair your ability to safely operate a vehicle. For example, certain allergy medications make it harder for drivers to focus.

There are blood tests that can identify drugs in a person’s system. However, there is no legal allowable limit for drugged driving in California. Any amount of a restricted substance can end up leading to DUID charges, even for drivers who used over-the-counter medications.

Results of a DUID Conviction in Los Angeles

A DUID conviction can have serious impacts on your life here in California. The court system hands down harsh penalties for drivers accused of operating a vehicle under the influence. Drivers convicted of a DUID can face:

• Fines
• Jail time
• The suspension of their license
• Drug education classes

Additionally, DUID charges are “priorable” in our state. This means that they remain on your record for 10 years. Each time you face a subsequent DUID conviction, the penalties can get more severe.

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Defenses for DUID Charges for Prescription Drugs

A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can help if you are charged with a DUID. Members of our team understand the defenses that work to handle these charges and can work to show that:

• You were not impaired while operating your vehicle.
• The medication you took wore off before you started to drive.
• You were stopped without reasonable cause by a police officer.

Our team can also work to block evidence against you. This allows us to weaken the prosecution’s case. We’ll take steps to get your charges reduced or even dismissed in some cases. You can also count on us to build your defense if your case goes to court.

Find Out How to Fight DUI Charges Now

You can get a DUI for driving under the influence of prescription drugs. Fortunately, you can also get legal help handling these charges. Just reach out to the Simmrin Law Group to get the assistance you need. We’ll review your situation today with a free consultation.

Reach out to us today by calling (310) 896-2723. We also have an online contact form.