Getting a DWI (driving while impaired) charge does not only mean driving while under the influence of alcohol. You can still get a DWI if your driving is impaired because of any substance – including over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs. This is why it is crucial to find out if the medications you are taking can result in impairment.
Medications to be mindful of
The use of drugs under Schedule I and Schedule II, the two highest categories of drugs, substances and certain chemicals, while driving will immediately result in a DWI charge. The presence of banned substances in your bloodstream is an outright cause for a DWI charge, regardless of how small those levels are. So, which legal medications should you look into? Here are the most common medications you should consult your doctor about if you plan to drive while taking it:
- Antipsychotics, antidiarrheal, antiepileptics and antidepressants
- Stimulants (e.g., diet pills, ephedrine and pseudoephedrine)
- Opioids (e.g., codeine, hydrocodone and cough medicine)
- Cold and allergy medications
- Muscle relaxants
- Benzodiazepines
Remember that having a prescription is not an automatic defense against a DWI charge. To avoid a DWI charge, you must demonstrate that your doctor has advised you that your prescribed medication will not impair your driving.
Consult your doctor thoroughly
Doctors sometimes forget to warn you about every drug they prescribe. That is why it is vital that you take the initiative to ask them yourself if your prescriptions will impair your driving. If you’re planning to take an OTC drug and then drive, make sure to look up the drug’s side effects. It should not cause drowsiness, agitation, palpitation or any other effect that can cause changes in your alertness and reaction time.
What if you get a DWI anyway?
Even if you have been careful and have thoroughly consulted your doctor, you can still get a DWI, especially if the drug you are taking is new. Drugged driving is still a punishable offense, even if you just made an honest mistake. Consulting legal counsel may be one viable option to help you face your driving violation.
