An Increase in DUI Drug Cases in Georgia

Yesterday, I posted a blog about DUI Less Safe in Georgia. I mentioned that DUI Less Safe Drugs is another way for someone to receive a DUI charge even if they are below the legal limit for BAC. 

Today, I'd like to expand on DUI Less Safe Drugs in Georgia, since the charge is becoming increasingly more frequent.

Most importantly, the consumption of drugs does not mean that you are guilty of driving under the influence. What we are looking for is whether or not the drugs present in the accused person's system are at levels that have impaired the driver and made them a less safe driver. There is no legal limit for drugs that will indicate whether or not a person is under the influence. 

The same goes for prescription medications. Most people believe that a DUI drug case only concerns illegal controlled substances. But just as those cases are increasing in frequency, so are Prescription Drug DUI cases in Georgia. Again, what we are looking for is whether or not the prescribed medications or the combinations of prescribed medications present in the accused person's system are at levels that have impaired the driver and made them a less safe driver. 

Most of the time, police will ask a suspected, impaired driver to perform field sobriety tests. These tests can include Horizontal and Vertical Gaze Nystagmus Test, Walk and Turn Test, One Leg Stand Test, Modified Romberg Balance Test, Lack of Convergence Test, Alphabet Test, Count Down, or Finger Count. Also, police typically request a blood or urine test in DUI drug cases. 

The state of Georgia is likely to prosecute a DUI drug case if the charges demonstrate that the driving was particularly poor. These charges can include reckless driving, following too closely, or failure to maintain lane. The arresting officer will also be testifying about his or her experience with you.

This is why in a DUI drugs or prescription drugs case, it is essential to have a top-rated, experienced Georgia DUI Lawyer. Our firm knows that the mere presence of a drug or prescription medication in your system does not mean that you are guilty of driving under the influence. The state of Georgia must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that drugs - illegal or prescribed - rendered you as an unsafe driver. Remember, no one is guilty just because they are charged. 

We know how to examine all of the evidence against you. We also know how to question officers and how to guide expert testimony. We can achieve the best possible defense in your case. Contact a Georgia DUI Attorney today.