While most people think of driving under the influence as relating to alcohol, there are actually other substances that can lead to a DUI or DWI. Driving while drunk is illegal and should always be avoided. Driving while under the influence of drugs is also something you can be charged with. And finally, driving under the influence of certain medications should also be avoided. It’s safest just to always get a ride instead of driving if you are using any sort of mind-altering substances. You definitely don’t want to deal with the financial hassle, stress, and possible danger involved in a DWI.
Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol, Drugs, and Medications: When Can You Operate a Vehicle
Alcohol
Driving under the influence usually makes people think of drunk driving. Unfortunately, there are thousands of crashes every year involving alcohol. These can lead to many unnecessary deaths and injuries. Driving drunk often results in erratic car movements and lane swerving. In addition, drunk drivers don’t react quickly in emergency situations. If a police officer suspects you might be driving drunk, they’ll pull you over. They will most likely ask you a series of questions while observing your behavior. They may follow up with tests like roadside physical tests and a breathalyzer. If it seems you’ve been drinking, they’ll bring you in for further blood testing.
Drugs
Driving under the influence can also relate to drugs. In fact, after alcohol, marijuana is the most common substance involved in collisions. Whether or not your marijuana is a prescription, it’s still illegal to drive under its influence. Even in states where it is legal to use. This is because it can make your reaction time much slower. In addition, it can cause you to lose focus on the road more easily. Illegal drugs like meth and cocaine can make drivers more aggressive and reckless. Of course, it’s always illegal to use these, but driving while using can result in much more serious legal trouble.
Medications
Finally, people often don’t realize that you’re not allowed to drive under the influence of strong medications either. If you are given a medicine that causes you to feel drowsy or dizzy you need to get a designated driver. Medications that include opioids are typically pain medications. These can have severe effects and cause confusion. Until your body adjusts to new medicines, you should always avoid driving while taking them.
Driving under the influence can relate to alcohol, drugs, and medication. While alcohol is most common, any sort of mind-altering substance needs to be handled with care. Never operate a vehicle while using them. And if you are starting a new medication, make sure that your body has adjusted to it before driving. If you are using any of these substances, reach out to a friend to give you a lift. Or call a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. It’s always better to be cautious than to risk the pain and hassle of a DWI.
