Can I really get a DUI on Prescription Drugs with No Alcohol?

At Ridings Law Group, we understand the complexity of cases where individuals are charged with a DUI due to prescription drugs. It’s a detailed and intricate field, and our seasoned team is well-versed in navigating these areas, providing unrelenting representation for our clients. Prescription drugs can severely affect cognitive and motor skills, leading to the possibility of a DUI arrest. Awareness is often not common as these are legally prescribed medications. Hence, charges levied can be deeply distressing, both personally and legally. We provide a diligent, unwavering defense, striving relentlessly to protect your rights and preserve your freedom. For more information or to discuss your case with our accomplished team, contact Ridings Law Group at (615) 851-1888. Your rights matter to us, and we’re committed to assisting you through this unimaginably tough time. Trust in our experience and dedication to seek the justice you deserve.

How Prescription Drugs May Impair Driving

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense with substantial ramifications, most commonly associated with alcohol intoxication. However, it’s important to understand that a DUI charge can also encompass impairment caused by prescription medication. Even though these substances are legal and often essential for a patient’s health and wellbeing, their usage can result in impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and decreased motor skills, all of which can adversely affect one’s ability to drive safely. Painkillers, sleep aids, anti-depressants, and anxiety medications are few of the medications that can potentially impair driving capabilities.

However, it’s crucial to note that the presence of these substances in one’s system will not necessarily translate to a DUI conviction. It is the demonstrable impairment of driving ability that triggers a DUI charge based on prescription drugs consumption. That is an element the state must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. Our law firm offers robust representation to individuals who have been charged with a DUI based on prescription drugs. We strive to deliver comprehensive legal services to each client, focusing on providing accurate information, distinct legal strategies, and rigorous defense.

While we empathize with the victims of DUI incidents, our advocacy is squarely on the side of the defendants. It’s our firm commitment to safeguard your rights and secure the most favorable outcome possible. Navigating through the complex labyrinth of legal facts, proceedings, and potential penalties surrounding DUI cases requires a law firm with skilled teams and years of experience, like ours. We stand ready to support and guide you at every legal juncture you face.

Defenses to DUI Based on Prescription Drugs

You ask, can I win a DUI charge based upon my taking prescription drugs that were legally prescribed to me? The short answer is, “yes”.  But you have to have good facts to win a DUI charge.  Many people make the mistake of associating DUI charges only with alcohol or illegal drug use, ignoring the fact that legal prescription medications, (despite being legal), can also impair your ability to drive safely. This difference creates a unique set of potential legal defenses that competent DUI attorneys, such as David Ridings, will know how to find to defend your rights.

• Lack of reasonable suspicion for a stop: The police must be able to articulate a valid reason for initiating a traffic stop, such as reckless driving, speeding, or a broken taillight. If the officer commits an error here, it might dismantle the prosecution’s entire case.
• Lack of probable cause for an arrest: Similarly, an arrest requires certain benchmarks to be met, such as observable signs of impairment. Inability to meet these stipulations could potentially invalidate the DUI charge.
• Errors in administering and interpreting tests: Field sobriety and drug recognition tests for prescription drug impairment can be subjective or flawed. An accurate defense might underscore these flaws and the impact they had on your charge.
• Alternative explanations for physical indications of impairment: Certain medical conditions or even fatigue can mimic signs of impairment. Strategic defenses might explore other reasons for any observed symptoms.

Our law firm confidently handles DUI cases based on prescription drugs. If you’ve been charged, it’s crucial to remember that a conviction is not automatic. We examine every aspect of your case, seeking opportunities to challenge the prosecutor’s evidence and avoid a conviction whenever possible. However, remember that every case is unique, and past successes do not guarantee future results. Understanding your situation is key for us to provide you with the most appropriate defense.

Penalties for DUI Based on Prescription Drugs

Driving under the influence of prescription drugs, commonly referred to as ‘Drugged Driving,’ is a serious offense under Tennessee law, with potential results that include imprisonment, hefty fines, and the suspension of driving privileges. Penalties for individuals found guilty of operating a motor vehicle while impaired by prescription medication can be severe, but are the same as if impaired by alcohol.

The potential term of imprisonment varies depending on your prior convictions. A first offender might face a 48-hour mandatory minimum jail sentence, but for repeat offenders or those with multiple DUIs on their record, the sentencing gets progressively harsher, including potential felony charges for a fourth or subsequent offense.

In terms of financial penalties, fines for a DUI conviction in Tennessee can range from $350 for a first offense up to $15,000 for a repeat offense. However, these figures don’t take into account other costs such as reinstating your driving license, attorney’s fees, and increased insurance rates, or driving with an interlock device.

Furthermore, a DUI conviction can lead to a one-year suspension of your driving privileges for a first-time offense. For subsequent offenses, the suspension period goes up, reaching a potential of up to ten years for a fourth or subsequent offense.

It is important to understand that a variety of factors can affect the penalties for a DUI-based prescription drug offense. Aggravating factors such as a high blood-alcohol concentration (BAC), involvement in an accident, or having a minor in the car can potentially increase the severity of the penalties.

Our law firm is dedicated to defending individuals accused of DUI offenses, including those involving prescription drugs. With our team of highly skilled attorneys, we will work tirelessly to represent your interests and protect your rights throughout the legal process. Remember, being charged with a DUI is not the same as being convicted. Let us help navigate the complexities of your case.

Let Us Help You Fight Your Charges

At Ridings Law Group, we believe that everyone deserves an aggressive defense. We are no strangers to DUI cases involving prescription drugs and can thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding your case to form a robust defense. Prescription medications can potentially inhibit the ability to drive, but their presence alone does not equate to guilt. Sometimes the length of time a person has been taking the medication plays a part in the defense.  We pay close attention to every detail and challenge the prosecution’s evidence, working diligently to ensure a proper defense is put forward. Facing such charges can bring substantial stress and confusion; letting us stand by your side can provide the guidance and support you need during such a challenging time. Our dedicated team is prepared to tirelessly argue your case, offering comprehensive services and staying committed to your cause. Dial (615) 851-1888 to let us help you navigate the intricacies of DUI charges based on prescription drugs. Remember, everyone is entitled to an aggressive defense, and we are here to do just that!