Driving under the influence (DUI) charges are not limited to alcohol and illegal drugs. Many people are surprised to learn that prescription medications, even when taken as directed, can impair your ability to drive and lead to a DUI arrest in Florida. With the number of prescriptions filled each year, drivers need to understand how their medications can affect their driving and the potential legal consequences of driving while impaired by these drugs.
If you take prescription medication and you were accused of driving while under the influence in the West Palm Beach area, Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel can help. With over 30 years of experience handling DUI cases in Florida, you can count on Mr. Gabriel to handle your case using all the knowledge and skill developed over the span of his career.
Common Prescription Medications That Can Lead to a DUI
Florida law makes it illegal to drive under the influence of any substance that impairs your ability to operate a vehicle safely. This includes prescription medications such as:
Benzodiazepines
Medications such as Xanax, Valium, and Ativan are prescribed to treat anxiety and insomnia. These drugs can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and slowed reaction times, all of which impair driving ability. Even at prescribed doses, benzodiazepines can significantly affect motor skills and judgment, leading to dangerous driving situations and potential DUI charges.
Opioid Painkillers
Drugs like Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, and Morphine are powerful pain relievers that can cause significant impairment. Side effects include drowsiness, confusion, and slowed reflexes, all of which can be detrimental when driving. The opioid epidemic has increased awareness of the risks of opioids, and law enforcement officers are vigilant in identifying drivers impaired by their effects.
Sleep Aids
Medications such as Ambien and Lunesta are designed to help people sleep, but their effects can linger into the next day. These drugs can cause drowsiness and impair coordination and judgment, making it unsafe to drive. Sleep aids can result in “sleep-driving” incidents, where individuals operate a vehicle with little to no memory of doing so.
Antidepressants
While medications like Prozac, Zoloft, and Lexapro are vital for managing depression and anxiety, they can also have side effects that impair driving. These may include dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision. It’s important to understand how your body reacts to these medications before getting behind the wheel.
Stimulants
Medications prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), such as Adderall and Ritalin, can also lead to DUI charges. While these drugs help improve focus and attention, they can also cause anxiety, agitation, insomnia, and overconfidence, which can impair driving ability.
Legal Implications of Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Medications
A DUI conviction can lead to severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Additionally, a DUI charge can have long-term consequences, such as increased insurance rates and a permanent criminal record. Prevent DUIs from prescription medications by:
- Reading the labels: Always read the labels and information provided with your prescription. Understand the side effects and how they can affect your ability to drive. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns about driving while taking your medication.
- Knowing your body: Pay attention to how your body reacts to new medications, especially when you first start taking them or change dosages. Avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you.
- Refraining from mixing substances: Combining prescription medications with alcohol or other drugs can increase impairment. Be cautious and avoid driving if you have taken multiple substances that could affect your ability to drive safely.
- Seeking alternatives: If your medication impairs your ability to drive, ask your doctor about alternatives that may have fewer side effects or different dosing schedules that allow you to avoid driving while impaired.
Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel has a deep understanding of DUI laws and the complexities involved in cases involving prescription medications. If you find yourself facing a DUI charge related to prescription medication, Mr. Gabriel will work tirelessly to mitigate your charges and protect your interests.
Arrested for DUI While on Prescription Medication? Contact a Skilled DUI Attorney
Many people are unaware that prescription medications, even when taken as directed, can impair driving abilities and lead to DUI arrests. If you have been accused of driving under the influence of prescription drugs in the West Palm Beach area, Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel can help. With over 30 years of experience handling DUI cases, he has the knowledge and skills to defend you effectively.
Start with a free consultation today by calling Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel of The Law Office of Gabriel & Gabriel at (561) 622-5575. You can also complete an online contact form to learn more.