It’s no secret that driving under the influence of drugs is a serious offense. But what many people don’t realize is that it can be just as easy for law enforcement to tell if someone is driving on drugs as it is for them to tell if someone has been drinking. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the ways police officers test for drug impairment, and what you can do if you find yourself facing charges.
How Drug DWI Differs From Drinking & Driving Charges
While there are many similarities between driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) and driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI), there are also some key differences. For instance, alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream relatively quickly, whereas drugs can be metabolized at different rates depending on the individual and the drug itself. This means that it can be difficult to determine an individual’s level of intoxication from drugs, as opposed to alcohol.
Another key difference is that there are no legal limits for drug intoxication like there are for alcohol. In other words, a person can be charged with DUID even if they are not technically “impaired” according to a blood or urine test. Rather, prosecutors will look at other factors to determine if a driver was impaired, such as their behavior behind the wheel and whether they had drugs in their system at the time of testing.
Testing For Impairment In the Field
Officers will usually perform a field sobriety test, which is a series of physical and mental tasks that are designed to gauge whether or not a driver is impaired. If the officer suspects that the driver is intoxicated by alcohol, they may also administer a breathalyzer test.
If officers suspect drug use, they can test for impairment with a drug recognition evaluation. This assessment includes an examination of the driver’s vital signs, an assessment of their pupils, and other observations. If the officer believes that the driver is under the influence of one or more drugs, they may then administer a urine or blood test to confirm their suspicion.
When a Strong Legal Defense Is Necessary
If you are facing charges for driving under the influence of drugs, it is important to understand that you have the right to a strong legal defense. An experienced DUI attorney can help you protect your rights and ensure that you receive a fair trial. Contact Richard B. Huttner at 303-981-6366 for a consultation.