In Arizona, total drug-related DUI arrests increased from 1,674 in 2010 to 2,961 in 2011 – a 44% increase in just one year! The percentage of arrests for drug-related DUIs in AZ increased more than every other DUI offense in Arizona, including aggravated DUI, misdemeanor DUI, extreme DUI and juvenile DUI.
A law enforcement officer can pull you over if they have probable cause to suspect you are driving under the influence of a substance, including prescription drugs. Some examples of probable cause include speeding, driving erratically, swerving between lanes, failure to maintain speed, hitting parked cars, or driving on the wrong side of the road.
If you are arrested for a DUI in AZ, the officer will direct you to provide a blood or urine sample, which will be used for a toxicology test. You must comply with this direction, or you will have your license suspended for one year under Arizona’s “implied consent” law, even if your test results ultimately show no drugs or alcohol in your system.
The most common drugs associated with prescription drug DUIs in AZ are anti-anxiety medications and sleep aids. The following prescription medications are commonly associated with prescription drug DUIs.
- Vicodin
- Lortab
- Valium
- Methadone
- Morphine
- Norco
- Percocet
- Hydrocodone
- Codeine
- Oxycontin
- Oxycodone
- Xanax
If you have a valid prescription for one or more of these substances or any another prescription drug, you may have a defense to a DUI charge, even with less than perfect driving.
A prescription drug DUI can have a devastating effect on your future. You need an experienced, aggressive attorney on your side. Contact Owens & Perkins today.
