Most individuals are aware that they could be charged with a DUI for driving under the influence of alcohol. However, it may be unbeknownst to some they could also face criminal penalties if they were found driving under the influence of a drug or medication and not alcohol.
If you have been faced with the unfortunate circumstance of being accused of driving a vehicle while being impaired by a drug or medication, it may be worthwhile to investigate the services one of our experienced DUI attorneys at Leifert & Leifert could provide. To get started on your case, reach out to a Wellington DUI drug lawyer to schedule a free consultation.
DUI Offenses Involving Controlled Substances
According to Florida Statute § 316.193, a DUI drug offense may occur when a person drives under the influence of either a chemical or controlled substance. Controlled substances include a wide range of illicit narcotics, prescription medications, and other drugs.
Driving when the normal faculties are impaired by any type of drug, including physician prescribed pain relievers, analgesics, and other medications constitutes driving under the influence. This can result in arrest, criminal charges, and prosecution. A Wellington DUI drug lawyer could answer your questions about the law, DUI drug offenses, and controlled substances.
DUI Offenses Involving Chemical Substances
The State of Florida prohibits the inhalation, consumption, or use of any chemical substance with the intent of inducing intoxication or distorting the visual, auditory, or mental processes. Driving while impaired by a chemical substance could result in being arrested and charged with a DUI drug offense.
Prohibited chemical substances are outlined in Florida Statute § 877.111. This may include drugs such as nitrous oxide, acetone, isopropanol, ethyl acetate, and methyl ethyl ketone, among others. A DUI drug attorney in Wellington could answer any of your questions about DUI offenses involving chemical substances.
Penalties for DUI Drug Offenses in Wellington
The penalties for a DUI drug offense in Wellington depend on whether it is a first offense, and whether the offense is charged as a Misdemeanor or Felony. The penalty for a first DUI Misdemeanor offense is up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. A Misdemeanor second DUI offense has a penalty of up to nine months in jail and a fine up to $2,000.
Causing serious bodily injury or death as a result of driving under the influence of drugs is a Felony DUI, as is being convicted for a third DUI offense if prior convictions occurred within the past ten years. The penalties for Felony DUI drug offenses can range from a sentence of up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine for a third-degree Felony DUI drug offense to a sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine for a first or second-degree Felony DUI drug offense. Additional penalties include fines, education classes, alcohol monitoring and of course, a driver’s license suspension.
Contact a Wellington DUI Drug Attorney
It may be extremely challenging to fight a charge for driving under the influence of drugs on your own. A Wellington DUI drug lawyer who could provide you with critical legal guidance about how best to handle the legal situation you are facing.
When you have legal representation, in addition to providing legal guidance, you could also have someone fighting to protect your constitutional rights and achieve the best possible outcome in your case. Get in touch with one of our professional criminal attorneys at Leifert & Leifert for a free initial consultation.
