It doesn't seem fair that you can get a DUI just because you were taking medication prescribed by your doctor, but it happens all the time. Law abiding citizens here in Georgia are pulled over by the police for a traffic violation, and simply by admitting they are prescribed a medication by their doctor, can be taken in and arrested for driving under the influence. This is because the law treats prescription or over the counter medication as a “drug” for a DUI. However, don't let an arrest for a prescription DUI mean a DUI conviction that goes on your criminal record. You deserve to be treated fairly, and need someone to stand by your side and fight for your rights.
Medications in Georgia DUI Cases
Law enforcement across the country have become aware of the rise in prescription drug abuse. However, in looking for the abuse and use of prescription medications, regular police officers can end up punishing innocent people with a valid medical condition requiring medication. Many innocent people think that the judge will treat them fairly because they didn't do anything wrong. But the prosecutor is looking to get a conviction. That's why you need an advocate on your side.
A conviction for a prescription medicine DUI case can mean the same penalties as a drunk driving charge, including jail time, fines and fees, DUI school, a clinical evaluation, possible drug abuse treatments, community service, a loss of your driver's license and higher insurance costs. In addition, a conviction will leave the driver with a criminal record.
Prescription drug DUI cases are different than alcohol DUI cases, or those involving marijuana or other illegal drugs. They require an understanding of how police gather evidence, how the labs test evidence, what the police say and do, and when to rely on expert witnesses to explain complicated science and medicine. Some lawyers who deal with drunk driving cases may not be able to handle a prescription drug case. Make sure you seek out an experienced Georgia DUI defense lawyer who can handle a prescription DUI case.
The blood samples the police take may test positive for prescription medications, but they do not mean that the driver was impaired or driving unsafely because of the medications. Even if the driver committed some traffic violation, there can be many other causes for how they drove, not involving the effects of the medication.
Rx Drug DUI Defense
It is important for you to understand that a positive drug test for prescription medication does not mean that you were a less safe driver, leading to a DUI conviction. If you or a loved one has been arrested for a prescription medication DUI, you need to contact a qualified and experienced Atlanta DUI lawyer. I have training in DUI drug detection, and field sobriety tests. If you have been charged with driving under the influence of medications, give me a call as soon as you can. I will make sure you get the fair treatment you deserve.