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Understanding DUI and Prescription Drugs
A recent update from the CDC points out a significant statistic: about 44% of people in the United States use at least one prescription drug. These medicines are essential for managing health issues and treating various conditions. However, many people don’t realize that these drugs can have side effects that look a lot like alcohol intoxication.
The Dangers of DUI with Prescription Medication
While prescription drugs are helpful, they can come with side effects that might hurt your driving skills. It is important to know that you don’t need to drink alcohol to be charged with a DUI; prescribed medication can also lead to this charge. If you find yourself facing a DUI charge because of prescription drug use, it is critical to have a Mercer criminal lawyer on your side.
How to Defend Against Mistaken DUI Charges in Mercer
Prescription meds can cause unexpected reactions like fatigue, confusion, dilated pupils, and delayed reaction times. These are all signs often associated with drinking alcohol. Because of this, police officers might wrongly think these symptoms mean you are impaired.
Handling DUI Charges with Professional Legal Aid
To fight back against incorrect DUI charges, getting help from a trusted firm like Logue Law Group is vital. They are dedicated to offering top-notch legal guidance and support, especially for those who are new to the criminal justice system. You should book a free consultation today to see how you might be able to get the allegations reduced or even dropped completely with the help of a Mercer DUI lawyer.
Could Your Prescription Meds Lead to a DUI in Pennsylvania?
In busy areas of Pennsylvania, like Mercer County, police are very strict about impaired driving. These places often have high rates of DUI incidents and, sadly, related fatalities across the country. Because of this, Pennsylvania officers enforce strict rules and might charge you with a DUI even if you are just taking prescribed medication.
Just like with alcohol or illegal drugs, many prescription medications have side effects that can make it dangerous to drive. This includes feeling sleepy or sluggish—signs that an officer could easily mistake for being drunk. In these cases, a Mercer criminal lawyer might tell you that you could be asked to take chemical tests to check for impairment. However, it’s worth noting that these tests aren’t perfect and can sometimes give false positives.
Additionally, refusing these tests can make you look guilty and lead to immediate penalties, like losing your driver’s license. In Pennsylvania, refusing for the first time results in a one-year suspension. A second refusal doubles this to two years, and a third goes up to three years. Also, if you refuse testing after a prior DUI conviction, you could face criminal charges.
Common Medications That Can Lead to DUI Charges in Pennsylvania
Prescriptions are designed to help with health issues, but some can have effects similar to alcohol or illegal drugs, such as slower reaction times and slurred speech. Here is a list of drugs often associated with DUI charges where a Mercer DUI lawyer would be needed:
- Adderall
- Ambien
- Ativan
- Methadone
- Morphine
- Norco
- Oxycodone
- Xanax
- Oxycontin
- Percocet
- Ritalin
- Valium
- Vicodin
- Codeine
- Demerol
- Hydrocodone
- Klonopin
- Lorcet
- Lortab
- Lunesta
Be aware that using any of these drugs, especially while driving, could put you under suspicion for a DUI. It is important to understand how your medicine affects your driving and to talk to your doctor about how to stay safe and follow Pennsylvania laws.
| Consequence | First Offense DUI (Low BAC) | First Offense DUI (High BAC) | First Offense DUI (Test Refusal) |
| Jail Time | 3 days to 6 months in jail. | At least 6 days and up to 6 months in jail. | 3 days to 6 months in jail. |
| Fines | $375 to $1,075. | $375 to $1,075. | $375 to $1,075. |
| License Suspension | 6 months to 3 years. | 6 months to 3 years. | Administrative suspension for 1 year, plus possible court suspension up to 6 months. |
| Driving Privileges | No driving for 15 days after offense. | No driving for 15 days after offense. | No driving for 30 days after offense. |
Defenses for Prescription Medication DUI Charges in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania laws offer specific defenses for people accused of driving under the influence of prescribed drugs. According to Pennsylvania Revised Code section 4511.19, drivers are not guilty of a DUI if two conditions are met:
- The drug was prescribed by a licensed medical professional.
- The person took the medication exactly as directed by their doctor.
Having a valid prescription can really help challenge the claim that the drug made you a bad driver. Also, a lack of solid proof can be a strong defense. If there are no clear test results proving impairment, a judge might dismiss the case due to lack of evidence, something a Mercer criminal lawyer can argue for you.
Mercer County, PA– Prescription DUI Defense Attorney
Dealing with a prescription-related DUI arrest can be stressful. At Logue Law Group, we are here to fight for your rights using our extensive legal knowledge. Don’t handle this alone; work with an attorney who is on your side.
Our group offers a strategic partnership to get the best result for your case. We encourage you to contact us and start building a strong legal defense with a skilled Mercer DUI lawyer.
Why Pick Logue Law Group?
- Deep Experience: Exceptional knowledge in handling prescription DUI cases.
- Resourceful Representation: A well-prepared team to handle the details of your case.
- Focus on You: You aren’t just a case number; you are our partner, and we aim for your success.
Your First Meeting is Free
We believe in building trust from the start. That is why your first meeting with us is free. In this no-obligation session, we will review your charges and start planning your defense strategy with a qualified Mercer criminal lawyer.
- No Cost: Your first visit is completely free.
- Full Review: A detailed talk about your charges and options.
- Easy Scheduling: Flexible times to fit your schedule.
Serving the Greater Mercer County Area
Logue Law Group is proud to represent people across Mercer County and nearby areas.
- Wide Coverage: helping clients in Mercer.
- Local Knowledge: deep understanding of local laws to strengthen your defense.
In Mercer County, PA, if you face a prescription DUI charge, team up with the trusted attorneys at Logue Law Group. We aim to be more than just your lawyers—we are your dedicated legal partners. Contact us today to set up your free initial consultation or call us at 412.389.0805 and take control of your defense with a Mercer DUI lawyer.