Driving under the influence does not always involve alcohol. Many do not realize that prescription medications can lead to a DUI charge in Georgia. These legal drugs can impair your ability to drive safely, putting you at risk of breaking the law. Understanding how Georgia treats prescription drug DUIs is crucial for anyone taking medication and getting behind the wheel.
What constitutes a prescription drug DUI?
Driving under the influence of any drug that makes it unsafe to drive is illegal. This includes prescription medications. The key factors are:
- Impairment: Your ability to drive must be affected
- Safety risk: You must be less safe to drive due to the medication
- Legal status: Even if it is a prescribed drug, you can still face charges
The law does not specify a set limit for prescription drugs like it does for alcohol. Instead, officers use their judgment to determine impairment.
How do officers detect prescription drug impairment?
Law enforcement uses several methods to identify prescription drug impairment:
- Field sobriety tests
- Blood or urine tests
- Drug recognition experts (DREs)
- Observation of driving behavior
Officers look for signs like slurred speech, poor coordination, or unusual drowsiness. If they suspect impairment, they may request further testing.
What should you do if charged with a prescription drug DUI?
A prescription drug DUI can have serious consequences. You can get a, have your license suspended, and go to jail. The complexities of these cases often require specialized knowledge. An experienced attorney familiar with Georgia’s DUI laws can help you defend your rights. They can examine the evidence, challenge the officer’s observations, and work to protect your driving privileges. Remember, a valid prescription is not an automatic defense but can be an essential factor in your case.
