Most impaired driving charges are handed out because the police find someone who is impaired by alcohol. This is why breath tests are often used in DWI cases. A breath test can measure someone’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to see if they are at or over the legal limit.
That being said, it is important to note that alcohol use is not necessary for someone to face impaired driving charges. They could be impaired by other substances, including some prescription medications. This can also lead to an arrest, even if a driver adamantly — and accurately — claims that they have not been drinking at all.
Operating heavy machinery
When you receive certain prescription medications, they may come with warnings or instructions. These instructions may say that you should never operate heavy machinery after taking the medication.
Many people think of heavy machinery in a work-related context. They imagine forklifts, excavators, jackhammers, dump trucks, cranes and other industrial equipment. While workers need to avoid operating this type of machinery on certain medications, cars are also considered “heavy machinery” in this context. So even someone who is simply commuting to the office in the morning could find themselves facing charges for impaired driving.
The warnings may also mention mixing prescriptions with alcohol. Some medications can exaggerate the effects, so even having one drink could lead to impairment if that drink is combined with a prescription drug.
Your legal defense options
An impaired driving arrest can have a major impact on your future, your reputation and your finances. You must understand exactly what legal defense options you have.