DUI and Prescription Drugs

DUI and Prescription Drugs

What You Need to Know About Driving Under the Influence of Legal Medications in California

Driving under the influence (DUI) is often associated with alcohol or illegal drugs, but many people are unaware that California law also applies to the use of prescription medications. Even if a medication is legally prescribed and taken as directed, it can impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely, leading to DUI charges. The consequences of a DUI conviction involving prescription drugs can be just as severe as those involving alcohol or illegal substances, making it essential to understand the risks and legal ramifications.

California Law and Prescription Drugs

Under California Vehicle Code Section 23152(f), it is unlawful to drive under the influence of any drug, including prescription medications, if the substance impairs the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. This law is broad in its application and does not differentiate between illegal drugs, over-the-counter medications, or prescription medications. As long as the substance impairs the driver’s physical or mental abilities to the extent that they can no longer drive as a cautious person would, it qualifies for a DUI charge.

While there is a clear legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) when it comes to alcohol-related DUIs, there is no equivalent threshold for prescription drugs. This makes DUI cases involving prescription medications more subjective and often reliant on the arresting officer’s observations and the driver’s behavior.

How Prescription Drugs Can Impair Driving

Many prescription medications come with side effects that can impair a driver’s ability to focus, react quickly, and make sound judgments. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, slowed reaction times, and impaired cognitive functions—all of which can increase the risk of accidents.

Some of the most common prescription drugs associated with DUI charges include:

  • Opioid Pain Relievers: Medications like oxycodone and hydrocodone are often prescribed for pain but can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired judgment.
  • Anti-Anxiety Medications: Drugs like Xanax (alprazolam) and Valium (diazepam) are commonly prescribed for anxiety but can induce sedation and slow reaction times.
  • Sleep Aids: Medications such as Ambien (zolpidem) and Lunesta (eszopiclone) can impair coordination and memory, even hours after being taken.
  • ADHD Medications: Drugs like Adderall (amphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate) are stimulants that can lead to increased risk-taking behavior, agitation, or impulsiveness if misused or taken in excessive amounts.

It is important to note that even if a medication’s label does not specifically warn against driving, it may still cause impairing effects in some individuals. The combination of prescription drugs with alcohol or other substances can further exacerbate impairment, increasing the likelihood of DUI charges.

Potential Defenses for DUI Involving Prescription Drugs

Facing DUI charges for prescription drug use can be daunting, especially when you are taking the medication as prescribed by your doctor. However, there are several potential defenses that can be used to challenge the charges:

  • Proving Legal Use: One of the first defenses in a prescription drug DUI case is demonstrating that the medication was legally prescribed and taken according to the doctor’s instructions. While this alone may not absolve the defendant of the charges, it can help mitigate the severity of the case and show that the impairment was not the result of illegal activity.
  • Challenging the Officer’s Observations: DUI arrests involving prescription drugs are often based on the arresting officer’s subjective observations of the driver’s behavior. This can include signs such as slurred speech, unsteady gait, or erratic driving. A skilled defense attorney may challenge these observations by arguing that other factors, such as fatigue or an existing medical condition, could have contributed to the driver’s behavior.
  • Lack of Evidence of Impairment: Unlike alcohol, where a breathalyzer or blood test can provide a clear measure of impairment, there is no equivalent test for prescription drugs. Blood tests can detect the presence of drugs, but they do not necessarily indicate impairment. For example, some medications remain in the bloodstream long after their effects have worn off. A defense attorney can argue that the mere presence of the drug in the driver’s system does not prove they were impaired at the time of the arrest.
  • Expert Testimony: In some cases, it may be beneficial to bring in expert witnesses, such as a toxicologist or medical professional, who can provide testimony about how the prescription drug affects the body and whether it likely contributed to impairment. An expert may also provide insight into alternative explanations for the driver’s behavior, such as underlying health issues.

Avoiding Prescription Drug DUIs: Practical Tips

To avoid the risk of a DUI involving prescription drugs, drivers should take proactive steps to understand how their medications may affect their ability to drive. Some practical tips include:

  • Read Medication Labels: Always read the warning labels on prescription drugs and pay attention to any instructions regarding operating heavy machinery, including driving.
  • Consult Your Doctor: If you are prescribed a new medication, ask your doctor about potential side effects and whether it is safe to drive while taking the medication. Be honest about any other substances you are using, including alcohol or over-the-counter medications, to avoid dangerous interactions.
  • Avoid Driving After Taking a New Medication: It is wise to avoid driving until you know how a new medication affects you, especially if it is known to cause drowsiness or impair coordination.
  • Plan Alternative Transportation: If your medication impairs your ability to drive, consider using public transportation, ridesharing services, or arranging for a designated driver.

Driving under the influence of prescription drugs is a serious matter in California, and the penalties for a conviction can be just as severe as those for alcohol-related DUIs. Understanding the risks associated with certain medications and taking steps to prevent impaired driving is essential for avoiding legal consequences. If you find yourself facing DUI charges related to prescription drug use, it is crucial to seek legal counsel. An experienced DUI defense attorney can help navigate the complexities of your case and build a strong defense to protect your rights.

Schedule an Appointment for a Free Consultation

If you’re facing a DUI charge in Pomona or surrounding area, don’t wait to seek legal representation. With offices in Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, West Covina, and Riverside, David Canty is ready to fight for you. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and let us help you navigate the complex legal process, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome in your DUI case.

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