Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) Cases when Prescription Meds are the Only Substance in the Driver’s System

Driving While Intoxicated cases in Denton and Collin Counties (DWI) is not limited to those who have consumed alcohol. In Texas, you can be charged with a DWI if prescription medications alone or combined with alcohol impair your ability to drive safely. Most people assume taking prescribed medications protects them, but that is not an accurate statement of the law. Even legally prescribed medications taken in therapeutic doses can lead to serious legal consequences if they affect your driving abilities.

Legal Consequences of a Prescription Medication DWI

Intoxication has a three-pronged definition in Texas in relation to DWI cases. First - one is presumed to be intoxicated ( a rebuttable presumption) if their blood alcohol content is .08 or above. Additionally, if there is not blood test - or it is suppressed, one can be intoxicated if they have lost the normal use of (prong 2) mental faculties or (prong 3) physical faculties because of the introduction of alcohol, an illegal drug, a prescription drug or any combination. Texas law prohibits operating a vehicle while intoxicated by any substance, including prescription drugs. A first-time DWI conviction can result in fines of up to $2,000, a jail sentence of up to 180 days, and a license suspension of up to a year. If the offense involves an accident or injury, the penalties increase significantly. Subsequent DWI arrests can lead to felony charges, longer jail time, and higher fines.

Impact on your Career, Livelihood and Reputation

A DWI conviction can affect your job, especially if you hold a professional license or drive as part of your employment. Many employers conduct background checks. DWI charge or conviction often can limit, employment opportunities or maintaining existing employment. Certain professions, such as healthcare, law enforcement, and commercial driving, may suspend or revoke professional licenses after a conviction. Additionally, a criminal record can harm your reputation, making it difficult to participate in many normal family activities including coaching your child’s team or even being able to visit their school.

Effects on your Privilege to Drive and Auto Insurance

A prescription medication DWI can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. You may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle (even though alcohol was not involved in the commission of the offense) and complete a drug education program to reinstate your license. Auto insurance carriers often significantly increase rates significantly after a DWI conviction, making coverage extremely expensive or even difficult to obtain.

Steps to Take After Your DWI Arrest

If you are arrested for a DWI involving prescription medications, you have options. Challenging the prosecution’s evidence, questioning the validity of sobriety tests, or proving that you were not impaired can help in your defense. Prompt involvement after your arrest gives you the best chances for a dismissal or a reduction in charge. Working with an experienced team of attorneys with extensive knowledge and experience in Denton County and Collin County DWI cases is a tremendous benefit. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Tim Powers have more than 30 years of experience and do whatever is possible to obtain the best result for your case. Call our office and set up a consultation shortly after release from jail. The consultation is free. The information you receive is priceless.

You don’t have to navigate a prescription medication DWI charge alone. Contact the Law Offices of Tim Powers today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help protect your rights and your future.