Driving Under the Influence of Drugs in California
Driving under the influence (DUI) isn’t limited to alcohol. In California, you can be charged with a DUI if drugs impair your ability to drive safely. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and illegal substances.
What Does It Mean to Be Under the Influence of Drugs?
The law defines driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) as operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs to the extent that you cannot drive with the caution of a sober person under similar circumstances.
Common Substances Leading to DUID Charges
- Prescription Drugs: Medications like painkillers, sedatives, or antidepressants can impair judgment and reaction time.
- Over-the-Counter Medications: Some cold medicines or antihistamines may cause drowsiness or slowed reflexes.
- Illegal Drugs: Substances like marijuana, cocaine, or methamphetamines can impair coordination, perception, and decision-making.
- Combination of Alcohol and Drugs: Even if your BAC is below 0.08%, mixing alcohol with drugs can amplify impairment and result in a DUI charge.
How Are DUIDs Proven?
Unlike alcohol-related DUIs, there is no per se limit (like the 0.08% BAC standard) for drugs. Prosecutors rely on:
- The officer’s observations of your behavior
- Field sobriety test results
- Blood or urine tests
Protect Your Rights with Chris Cain Law
If you’re charged with driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) in Monterey County, you need a skilled attorney who understands how to challenge evidence and defend your case. At Chris Cain Law, we provide personalized representation to help you navigate these serious charges.
Call us at (831) 296-0060 to schedule a consultation and get the legal support you need.