Understanding Driving Under the Influence of Drugs in New Jersey
Contrary to what many New Jersey residents may believe, a motorist may face charges for driving while impaired (DWI) if he or she is suspected of operating a vehicle while under the influence of legally prescribed drugs or over-the-counter medication. A more obvious point is that a driving while impaired charge in New Jersey also applies when illegal drugs are involved. And depending on the type of illegal substance, a person’s criminal history, age, and if any other illegal drugs are in a driver’s possession, additional charges may be filed against him or her.
Motorists should be aware of the potential side effects of a prescription drug or over-the-counter medication. Some of these reactions may include drowsiness, nausea, excitability, sight-related issues, or impairment of motor functions, all of which may affect a person’s ability to operate a vehicle. Also, an individual may experience these effects if a certain medication, whether over-the-counter or prescription, was mixed with alcohol or illegal drugs.
A motorist may also face the many severe consequences of a DWI conviction if he or she used a house-hold / office product or substance with the intention of becoming intoxicated. A recent dailyitem.com article discusses the case of a 22-year-old woman in Pennsylvania who has been sentenced to 11 months - 23 ½ months after being convicted of causing a deadly car accident while under the influence of dust remover. Apparently, the woman had been inhaling, or “huffing” the dust remover cans right before the collision took place. She pleaded guilty to use of illegal solvents, homicide by motor vehicle, two counts of driving on the wrong side of the road, and a seat belt violation.
If you or a loved one is involved in a New Jersey DWI case involving drugs, whether the alleged drug-use and intoxicated driving relates to prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal drugs, the skilled New Jersey criminal defense attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein can help. For many years, our experienced and aggressive lawyers have been helping individuals charged with a variety of driving and drug use offenses. Contact Lependorf & Silverstein today for a free consultation by calling 609-240-0040.
Source report: http://www.dailyitem.com/0100_news/local_story_328163530.html
