Getting A DUI Means More than Just Drinking and Driving
In Texas, impaired drivers are charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). However, in this case, intoxication refers to more than just being under the influence of alcohol. Any substance that impairs a driver’s ability to operate a car safely can be considered an intoxicant. The user can be charged with a DWI if he or she drives recklessly or causes an accident.
Drugs That Can Impair Driving
It should be obvious that any substance that affects the user’s ability to think, react, use motor skills, and be alert will affect his ability to operate a heavy machinery vehicle. However, far too many people fail to equate drug use with dangerous driving. It is important to realize that it is not only illicit drug use that impairs driving, which is what most people think of when considering drug use. Completely legal over-the-counter and prescription medications can impair your ability to drive just the same. When a reckless driver causes an accident, he or she may be under the influence of any of the following drugs:
- Prescription drugs. Whether used under a doctor’s orders or illegally because of an addiction, prescription drugs such as opioid painkillers can slow reaction time, cause mental fogginess, and reduce coordination. Users should seek medical advice before operating a vehicle while on any type of prescription medication.
- Marijuana. Marijuana is illegal for any and all use in Texas, but it is still widely used despite its illegality. Many people think of it as a harmless drug, but it can slow reaction time, impair the judgment of time and distance, and decrease coordination—making it very dangerous to use before driving.
- Over-the-counter drugs. Any over-the-counter medication that warns users not to operate heavy machinery should not be taken before driving. Medications such as cold and allergy relief can cause drowsiness and increase distraction in drivers.
- Illegal drugs. Drugs such as cocaine and heroin can seriously affect driving, although in different ways. Cocaine is a stimulant and can cause hyperactivity, aggression, and recklessness in drivers. Heroin is an opiate and can cause slowed reaction times, decreased coordination, and drowsiness.
Because police officers only have roadside tests for alcohol at this point, it can be difficult to prove that a reckless driver is under the influence of drugs. Unless the driver is in possession of drugs at the scene of a crash, he will often get away with driving under the influence, which could make your claim for damages more difficult to prove. Most drug testing requires a blood sample. Under Texas’ implied consent laws, a police officer can require a driver to submit to a blood test, but it must be obvious that the driver is impaired in some way.
Perhaps you came across this article because you or a loved one were recently injured in a car wreck, and you suspect the driver was under the influence. Maybe you were injured in an accident and are having a hard time seeking compensation from the other driver. Regardless of what your situation may be, call the Button Law Firm for help with your Dallas, Midland or Houston claim at 214-699-4409. We can look at the other driver’s records and may be able to determine if he or she was under the influence of any kind of controlled substance at the time of the crash. We are here for you and your family and want to help you make the best possible decisions.