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Writer's pictureWilliam Matthews

The Role of Prescription Medications in DUI Cases, Orlando DUI Attorney

Updated: Aug 23, 2023

Introduction


Driving under the influence (DUI) cases are typically associated with alcohol or illegal drugs. However, a lesser-known but equally significant factor that can lead to DUI charges is the influence of prescription medications. As more people rely on prescription drugs for various health conditions, understanding the implications of these medications on DUI cases is essential. This article will delve into the impact of prescription medications on DUI cases in Orlando, Florida, considering legal considerations and potential defenses that can arise. It's important to hire an Orlando DUI Attorney as soon as possible.


The Interaction Between Prescription Medications and Driving Ability


Prescription medications are designed to alleviate medical conditions and improve the quality of life for individuals who need them. However, some of these medications can have side effects that impair a person's ability to drive safely. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, impaired coordination, blurred vision, and cognitive impairment. These effects can significantly impact a person's driving skills, leading to an increased risk of accidents on the road.


It's important to note that the effects of prescription medications on driving can vary from person to person. Factors such as dosage, individual tolerance, and the specific medication's properties play a role in determining the extent of impairment.


Legal Considerations in Prescription Medication-Related DUI Cases


Legal authorities treat DUI cases involving prescription medications similarly to those involving alcohol or illegal drugs. In many jurisdictions, individuals who operate a vehicle while impaired by prescription medications can be charged with DUI. The key legal consideration is whether the impairment caused by the medication renders the individual incapable of driving safely. In Orlando, Florida, the question is whether the client's normal faculties were impaired at the time they were operating or in actual physical control of the motor vehicle


Proving impairment due to prescription medications can be challenging compared to alcohol-related DUI cases, where blood alcohol concentration (BAC) can be measured directly. With prescription medications, the presence of the drug in the bloodstream does not necessarily equate to impairment at the time of driving. This adds complexity to DUI cases involving medications and requires a more nuanced approach.


Potential Defenses in Prescription Medication-Related DUI Cases

  1. Prescribed Use: One of the primary defenses in prescription medication-related DUI cases is to establish that the medication was taken as prescribed. If a person can demonstrate that they followed the prescribed dosage and warnings and were not aware of the impairment caused by the medication, it could support their defense.

  2. Lack of Awareness: Some individuals might not be aware of the potential side effects of their medications, especially if they are new to the medication or were not adequately informed by their healthcare provider. Lack of awareness about the potential impairment could be used as a defense, emphasizing the importance of proper patient education.

  3. Expert Testimony: In many cases, expert testimony from medical professionals can be crucial in explaining the effects of a specific medication on an individual's ability to drive. Medical experts can provide insights into dosage, timing, and potential interactions with other substances.

  4. Timing of Consumption: If the medication was taken well before driving and its effects had worn off by the time of the traffic stop, this could be used as a defense to argue that the impairment was not present at the time of driving.

  5. Inaccurate Testing: Just as with alcohol-related DUI cases, there is room for errors in testing for prescription medications. Blood tests and other methods used to detect medication presence and levels can sometimes yield inaccurate results, which can be challenged in court.

Conclusion


As the use of prescription medications becomes increasingly common, understanding the potential impact on driving ability and the legal implications is crucial. In DUI cases involving prescription medications, the complex interplay between medical needs and legal considerations requires careful examination. Individuals should be aware of the potential side effects of their medications, follow prescribed dosages diligently, and seek guidance from healthcare professionals to ensure their safety on the road. For those facing prescription medication-related DUI charges, seeking legal counsel and exploring potential defenses can help navigate the intricate legal landscape surrounding these cases.


Hire an Orlando DUI Attorney as soon as possible. If you have been charged with driving under the influence (DUI), hire an experienced DUI attorney immediately. Matthews Criminal Defense has extensive experience with DUI charges. Contact my office in Orlando, Florida at (407) 561-8166 for your free initial consultation.

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