Here in Washington State not only can you be arrested for alcohol related DUI (driving under the influence) but you can also be arrested for drug induced DUI. “Drug” includes the illegal drugs such as heroin and cocaine and also legal or medically prescribed drugs, such as marijuana, codeine, percocet, and so many more. If an individual is impaired by the use of any type of drug than it is illegal to drive.
Recently in the Seattle news, a 34-year-old mother was arrested for drug induced DUI. On Monday night, June 17th, this mother was in a 7 Eleven parking lot when she backed her pickup truck into a parked van. When Seattle police arrived at the scene, they noted the mother was unsteady on her feet, swaying, and staggering. She was asked to take the DUI field sobriety test which she allegedly failed miserably.
Police found 2 newly prescribed drug bottles on the floor of the mother’s truck of which many pills were missing. To make matters worse, law enforcement found her 2-year-old in the back of her pickup truck poorly fastened in his car seat. The woman was arrested for DUI, child endangerment, and negligent driving.
Drug induced DUI penalties are the same as alcohol related DUI penalties. DUI charges are serious and consequences are harsh; fines, loss of driver’s license, jail time, etc. It is important to choose a qualified DUI defense attorney to defend one’s rights.
Call David O Defense if you have been charged with a drug related DUI case. The consultation is free but the peace of mind provided after is invaluable.
Written by S.O