When most people think of driving under the influence (DUI), they automatically assume that the driver was drunk. However, DUI laws also apply to drivers who are under the influence of drugs. Unlike a DUI for alcohol, there are no set standards for what constitutes inebriation. While per se rules for drunk drivers – like presumed intoxication for people with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or above – can be unfair, the lack of standards for drug-impaired driving leaves too much discretion in the hands of police officers.
With harsh penalties for a conviction related to Drug Impaired Driving, it is crucial to have a drug defense and DUI defense lawyer on your side.
DUI laws often prohibit driving under the influence of anything that impairs your ability to drive safely. In California, Vehicle Code 23152(f) explicitly makes it illegal to drive under the influence of drugs, stating: “It is unlawful for a person who is under the influence of any drug to drive a vehicle.”
This broad language leaves room for interpretation, making it vital to work with a skilled defense attorney when facing charges related to Drug Impaired Driving.
The lack of clear definitions in Vehicle Code 23152(f) creates ambiguity for those accused of drugged driving. Let’s break down the key elements:
Vehicle Code 23152(f) does not define what it means to be “under the influence” of drugs. Unlike alcohol-related DUIs, which rely on BAC thresholds, drug-related DUI cases often depend on the subjective judgment of police officers. This makes it essential to challenge the evidence presented in court with the help of an experienced attorney.
Under California law, a “drug” includes any substance that impairs your ability to drive safely. This broad definition has even led to arrests for consuming caffeine. The vague standards increase the likelihood of wrongful accusations.
To be charged with drug-impaired driving, you must be driving a vehicle. However, police can use circumstantial evidence to prove you were driving under the influence, even if they did not witness it directly. This aspect of the law highlights the importance of a robust defense strategy.
A conviction for Drug Impaired Driving typically results in misdemeanor charges. Penalties for first-time offenders include:
Fines up to $2,000
License suspension for six months
Mandatory drug education classes
Probation lasting three to five years
For repeat offenses or cases involving injuries, penalties escalate and may include felony charges, longer license suspensions, and up to four years in prison.
Penalties come from both the criminal justice system and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). While the courts handle fines, probation, and jail time, the DMV quickly imposes license suspensions, often with little opportunity to contest the decision. This dual system can complicate the process for defendants.
Drug-impaired driving charges rarely occur in isolation. Police often conduct vehicle searches after an arrest, potentially leading to additional charges such as:
Drug Possession:
If drugs are found in your car, you could face
, depending on the type and amount of substance.
Drug Trafficking:
Possession of large quantities can lead to
with severe penalties.
Driving While Addicted:
California prohibits driving while addicted to drugs, even if you are not impaired at the time.
Vehicular Manslaughter:
If your impaired driving results in a fatal accident, you may face additional criminal charges.
Defending against a Drug Impaired Driving charge requires an attorney experienced in challenging evidence and police procedures. Some common defense strategies include:
Challenging the Traffic Stop:
If the officer did not have a valid reason to pull you over, evidence collected during the stop could be dismissed.
Providing Alternate Explanations:
Symptoms of impairment can have medical or environmental causes unrelated to drug use.
Questioning Chemical Test Results:
Improperly administered or unreliable tests can weaken the prosecution’s case.
If you are facing charges for Drug Impaired Driving, an experienced defense lawyer can protect your rights and help minimize the impact on your life. Contact William Kroger today for a free consultation.
Additional resources include our pages on DUIs involving drugs, criminal defense, and case results.
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This page was reviewed and approved by William S. Kroger, a leading criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles. Mr. Kroger has decades of experience defending clients in both state and federal courts. He is recognized for his strong trial skills and dedication to protecting the rights of the accused. Throughout his career, he has successfully represented clients facing a wide range of serious criminal charges. His personalized defense strategies are designed to achieve the best possible outcome in every case. Clients trust Mr. Kroger for his knowledge, commitment, and proven results.
He is also an active member of respected legal organizations, including the American Bar Association and the National Association for Criminal Defense Lawyers. With his expertise and reputation, William S. Kroger is regarded as one of California’s top defense lawyers.
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