Prescription Drug-Related Connecticut DUI Charge

 Posted on February 19,2018 in Driving Under the Influence

In Connecticut, as in every other state, alcohol is not the only substance that can lead to a DUI charge. Driving while under the influence of drugs, whether illicit or a lawful prescription, may also result in a Connecticut DUI or DWI charge. Importantly, the penalties for a prescription drug-related DUI conviction are no different than those for a traditional, alcohol-based DUI. This is because the duty of safe driving is at issue. All drivers owe this duty to one another, and when one driver endangers another while under the influence, the nature of influencing substance is a secondary concern. Certainly, if the substance is illicit, a DUI charge may be coupled with separate drug charges. As for the DUI component, however, the penalties are the same.

Always Read the Label on Your Prescriptions

Even over-the-counter medicines such as cold remedies and antihistamines may cause one to become drowsy or disoriented and, as such, refrain from getting behind the wheel of a car, truck, or other vehicle. Behind-the-counter medications and treatments, only obtainable with the prescription of a physician, may be magnitudes stronger. This is especially the case with pain medication, some of which are derived from opiates – a very powerful class of drug. Because of this, it is critical that you follow the exact orders of the prescribing physician in taking the prescription, including taking time to read the label and understand any side-effects that you may experience. The duty is on you and an officer arresting you for DUI will not sympathetic to surprise prescription side-effect-related explanations.

Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Connecticut Are Serious

Even a first offense DUI conviction in Connecticut may result in jail time, fines, and penalties. While prison and fines are undoubtedly disadvantageous and to be assiduously avoided, the penalty of license suspension is perhaps under-discussed. You do want to experience a long-term license suspension. Losing the privilege to drive can radically affect your ability to get to and from work, school, and other activities and responsibilities. This is the case whether you are facing a 1-year suspension following a first-time conviction, and even more so if you are facing permanent revocation of your driver’s license following a third or subsequent DUI conviction.

Mounting the Strongest Possible Defense

Whatever the substance at issue in a Connecticut DUI charge, be it alcohol, narcotics, or seemingly innocuous prescription medication, it is imperative that you mount the strongest possible legal defense of the charges against you. An experienced Norwalk DUI defense attorney will fight to protect your legal rights.

Source:

https://www.jud.ct.gov/lawlib/law/intoxicated.htm