What You Should Know About A Controlled Substance DUI
A controlled substance DUI is when you use drugs when driving. Driving under the influence of controlled drugs such as cocaine or heroin can result in penalties including fines, jail time, and losing your driving privileges.
Charges for possessing and using these substances can leave a significant mark on your record. If you are convicted of a controlled substance DUI, here are some questions you need to ask your DUI lawyer.
Which Controlled Substances Can You Possess?
The federal government has a list of controlled substances in the Controlled Substance Act. It's illegal to use any of these drugs while driving. The Controlled Substance Act breaks down this list of substances into five schedules.
Schedule 1 drugs include LSD, ecstasy, heroin, and marijuana. Schedule 2 drugs include methadone, oxycontin, and opium. Drugs in these categories have a high potential for abuse. Drugs in Schedule 3 up to 5 have a low potential for abuse. These include ketamine, Xanax, and cough syrups. While it's illegal to possess these drugs while driving, you haven't broken the law if you're properly prescribed and lawfully purchase any of these substances.
When Can You Be Charged for a Controlled Substance DUI?
Driving under the influence of drugs is illegal in the U.S. Driving when impaired puts you and other people in harm's way. Controlled substance charges are the same as drunk driving charges.
However, there's no way to measure the amount of controlled substance a person must have used to face charges. The use of any amount of controlled substance while driving can impair your driving. This also includes medication you received through a doctor's prescription.
What Are the Penalties for a Controlled Substance DUI?
Police can run tests to determine whether you're under the influence of a controlled substance. These include urine and blood tests. People charged with a controlled substance DUI face felony or misdemeanor charges.
If you're convicted, you may have to pay fines or face a jail sentence. Also, you may face harsher charges if a person is hurt in a DUI accident. Additionally, your driver's license may be suspended after a conviction.
In Conclusion
A police officer can pull you over if they believe you're driving under the influence of drugs. Before you admit to any allegations, you need to contact a DUI attorney. Your lawyer will prevent you from self-incrimination and offer the best defense possible to have the charges reduced or dropped altogether.
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