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4 Important Things to Know Before Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs

According to a study conducted by the CDC, drugs are involved in over 15% of vehicle crashes annually. While DUIs may be more commonly associated with alcohol, they also include the use of any substance that impairs cognitive and motor function, whether legally prescribed or not. 

Given the high number of DUIs that involve prescription drugs, it is important to understand what constitutes a DUI, as well as the types of drugs that can result in DUI charges. It is also crucial to understand the importance of immediately contacting the best DUI lawyers in Clearwater with Russo, Pelletier, & Sullivan P.A. if you find yourself accused of driving under the influence of prescription drugs. 

The top DUI lawyers in Clearwater at Russo, Pelletier, & Sullivan, P.A. provide the facts below so you can be informed and well-represented no matter the situation you find yourself in.

Prescription Drugs Can Amplify the Effects of Alcohol

Most commonly associated with alcohol, a DUI charge can also result from driving while using an array of prescription medicines. Mixing prescription drugs and alcohol can result in stronger side effects of either substance. One drink while on strong cold medicine could cause impairment equivalent to multiple drinks.

When taking medication prescribed by a doctor, talk with them about how the prescriptions will impact your day-to-day functions. Understanding the dosage prescribed, the time it takes for the drug to work through your system, and how your body will react are all questions you should know the answer to. 

Knowing and following the recommendations associated with all prescription medications is vital to being a safe driver and avoiding a DUI charge.

Which Prescription Drugs Can Result in a DUI Charge?

Many medications commonly prescribed for anxiety or allergies can cause drowsiness and impact reaction time. Additionally, prescription drugs used as stimulants can cause difficulty concentrating. 

The following list contains drugs that most commonly lead to DUIs: 

  • Adderall 
  • Xanax 
  • Ambien 
  • Vicodin 
  • Clarinex 

If you regularly take any of the above medicine, be aware of how these drugs impact your driving ability. Being proactive about your routines around medicine and driving will help to avoid DUI charges altogether.

No Per Se Limit for Drugged Driving in Florida

While the BAC limit for driving under the influence of alcohol in Florida is clearly defined at .08%, there is no per se limit for driving under the influence of drugs. In order to determine whether or not you have taken controlled substances or other chemical substances, the police may ask you to submit to a urinalysis. The problem with this test is that it can detect chemicals as long as a week after you have taken them. 

If you find yourself in this scenario, it may be in your best interest to exercise your right to refuse the urinalysis test and contact an attorney at Russo, Pelletier, & Sullivan P.A. immediately.

Call Russo, Pelletier, & Sullivan, P.A. if Charged With a DUI While Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs

Getting charged with a DUI involving prescription drugs can be as impactful to your life as a DUI involving alcohol. Jail time, fines, community service, license suspension, and damage to your reputation are just a few consequences of being convicted. Working with Russo, Pelletier, & Sullivan P.A. means working with best DUI lawyers in Clearwater to ensure a favorable outcome. 

Don’t put your future at risk when the solution is simple. Contact Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan P.A., the top DUI Attorneys in Clearwater, today for a free consultation.  

 

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.

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