Can You Get a DUI for Driving on Prescription Medication

When most people think of a driving under the influence (DUI) charge, they think of alcohol. However, any substance that can leave you “impaired” could land you with a DUI charge, even if it was prescribed to you by a doctor. Learn the laws of DUI charges in Florida and find out what medications may land you behind bars.

Which Prescription Medications Could Leave You With a DUI?

There are many different types of medication that may impair your driving. Some common examples include painkillers, sleeping pills, and Central Nervous System Depressants prescribed to treat anxiety and panic attacks. Even when used as directed, these drugs can cause a person to become too impaired to drive, and if pulled over or driving recklessly, they could be facing a DUI charge. Some of these common drugs include:

Hydrocodone
Vicodin
Oxycodone
Oxycontin
Percocet
Fentanyl
Morphine
Valium
Xanax
Ambien

These are just some of the common names of prescription drugs that may leave you too impaired to drive. There are many more that could cause you trouble. The best thing to do is speak with your physician about how your medication may affect your driving abilities.

How Will The Officer Know If I Have Taken a Prescription Medication?

For alcohol related DUIs, it is sometimes more straightforward to prove if a person is under the influence of alcohol. However, it is more difficult for officers to prove if you are under the influence of another drug. Generally, after an officer suspects you of being under the influence, they will perform field sobriety tests. If you fail these, then the officer may search your vehicle. Finding any prescription medication bottles in the vehicle may strengthen their case. After being arrested, especially if the breath alcohol level is below the legal limit of .08, the police will request urine samples to determine if prescription medication or any other drugs were a factor.

Defending Your DUI Charge

If you are being charged with a DUI, we can help you. Call the Khonsari Law Group today. Our dedicated team of attorneys will fight vigorously for your case and help you understand all of your legal options. Do not wait, and come to KLG today for a free consultation.

Rohom Khonsari

Lawyer

Mr. Khonsari founded and is principal/partner of the Khonsari Law Group. With experience in both criminal and civil law, Mr. Khonsari built the law firm with the standard of doing everything possible for each and every client. With over forty jury trials, he has used his trial advocacy in successfully representing clients charged in criminal court and also those who have cases in the civil realm.

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