Driving While Impaired (DWI) Erie PA
Driving under the influence or driving while impaired are both serious infractions that can have lasting effects on your record and lead to jail time. While many think that these charges are only related to illegal substances and alcohol, you may face charges for a DUI if driving while impaired by prescription medication as well. Stay safe while operating a vehicle by talking to your doctor, knowing what side effects to be cautious of, and avoid driving if you feel slightly impaired.
In the event that you are facing charges due to legally obtained medications, seek legal counsel from Panghetti Law to know your rights. Proceeding without proper representation in any DUI charge can set you up for failure. Schedule a consultation to learn about your rights and get the best possible outcome related to your charges.
Talk to Your Doctor and Pharmacist Before Driving While Taking Prescription Medication
When you add prescriptions, change prescriptions, or change doses, you need to have a conversation with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss possible side effects to look out for. Read any attached warnings that come with your prescription before operating any heavy machinery, including a car. While some people react differently to medications than others, most doctors can give you a general guideline of which medications are not safe to take while driving.
How Legally Obtained Prescriptions Impair Your Driving
Even though your prescription is obtained legally, you may face charges if you suffer the following side effects and choose to drive while impaired. Being under the influence means the driver’s capacity to securely work the vehicle was influenced to a degree by alcohol, a medication, or a mix of the two.
- Dizziness
- Loss of sight
- Nausea and vomiting
- Slowed reaction time
- Drowsiness
- Inability to focus
- Hallucinations
Prescription Drugs Commonly Associated with a DUI charge in Pennsylvania
While medications can have different effects on each person who takes them, and you should always consult a doctor about any new medication, these types of prescriptions are commonly seen to impair driving. Almost all medications listed here have side effects that on their own impair you, and when these medications are paired with alcohol, they can be detrimental both to your health and to your driving. If you feel any of the symptoms listed above, or are on any of the medications listed below, you should evaluate your ability to drive before operating a motor vehicle.
- Antidepressants
- nausea
- fatigue and drowsiness
- insomnia
- blurred vision
- Antianxiety medications
- blurry vision
- dizziness
- drowsiness or fatigue
- headaches
- Blood Pressure Medicine
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- fatigue and drowsiness
- headache
- nausea or vomiting
- Antiseizure medications (Any person who has had a seizure within the last six months should not be operating a vehicle per US Federal law, and this applies to all 50 states.)
- headache
- loss of vision
- slowed reaction times
- Sedatives
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- confusion
- problems with movement and memory
- impaired attention and judgment
- Tranquilizers
- unconsciousness
- drowsiness
What should you do if you are facing DUI charges in Pennsylvania for prescription medication?
If you find yourself in trouble for DUI in Pennsylvania, it is likely in your best interest to seek legal counsel. Dealing with charges for a DUI in Erie Pennsylvania can be incredibly upsetting, particularly when you were accused of this offense where a legitimate doctor prescribed medication use. There is a wide range of ways that an experienced Erie DUI attorney can acquire the best possible outcome for your case. To know what steps you need to take after being charged, contact Panighetti Law today.
