WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU’RE ARRESTED FOR OWI BECAUSE OF PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION?

by Van Den Heuvel Law Office

There are many different reasons people in Grand Rapids can be pulled over for suspicion of drunk driving, including because they have recently taken prescription medication. While driving under the influence of prescription drugs is dangerous and it should be avoided, the fact is, many people simply aren’t aware that there could be a problem when they take their medication. In addition, some people have a bad reaction to their medication, which can cause unexpected results and lead to erratic behavior.

When you have been arrested for driving under the influence of prescription medication the penalties can be the same as if you were driving under the influence of alcohol. Even if you test below the legal limit for medication you can still be charged if you appear visually impaired. As with most OWI cases, prosecutors often seek the toughest penalties when someone is charged with driving under the influence of medication. So what should you do if you have been arrested for a prescription medication OWI? If you find yourself in this kind of situation, you need to aggressively defend yourself.

Many people aren’t even aware that they aren’t allowed to drive when they have taken some legal medications. Other drivers don’t realize their cognitive abilities have been affected. However, despite those circumstances, it can be difficult to fight these kinds of charges. But with the help of a knowledgeable and experienced OWI defense attorney, you can build a solid defense. One strategy that can work in your favor if you have been charged based on an officer’s opinion that you appeared to be visually impaired is to contest that assessment. Law enforcement officers are not doctors and their assessment of the situation and whether or not you were impaired is simply an opinion, and not necessarily a fact.

Even though no one should drive after they have taken prescription drugs that they know could affect their driving ability, many times these situations occur due to honest mistakes. Therefore, if you have been charged with an OWI/DUI in Grand Rapids because you were affected by prescription medication, then please contact the Van Den Heuvel Law Office today. Don’t wait for the authorities to build a case against you. Get in touch with us right away to start preparing your defense. You should not be treated unfairly for an honest mistake. Call us at 616-698-0000 as soon as possible or click here to contact us online. Don’t let your rights be taken.

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