Driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Get the facts on DUID and what you can do if you’re facing a DUID charge.
Understanding DUID
In the state of California, it is illegal for any person to operate a motor vehicle if their functions are compromised by legal or illegal drugs; this includes prescription medication. Any person who chooses to drive when under the influence of drugs will be subject to criminal penalties if they are detained by law enforcement.
Many types of prescription medication, including painkillers, anxiety medication, antidepressants, sleep aids, and more can all have adverse effects on motorists. Whether the drug alters your mood or changes your vision or reflexes, you are considered an impaired driver who is a threat to others, and you will be arrested.
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor DUID offense, you face potential consequences including:
Up to six months of drug education classes
Up to six months’ imprisonment in county jail
Up to six months’ driver’s license suspension
Informal probation for a maximum of five years
Base fine up to $1,000
Defending Your Rights
If you have been arrested for DUID, our criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry are prepared to defend your rights. We utilize a number of legal defenses, including the following:
You were not actually impaired by drugs (legal or illegal)
Your physical condition was mistaken for drug impairment
You were not advised of your Miranda Rights prior to questioning
The officer did not have probable cause to initiate a traffic stop
Your blood or urine sample was improperly handled or tested
The prosecution is unable to establish ingestion times and/or shelf life of the drug
If you or someone you love is facing a DUID charge, do not hesitate to contact the Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry at (949) 694-8804.