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Taking prescriptions? Avoid a DUI

If you’re accused of driving while under the influence but knew that you were taking prescription medications as described, you might think that the DUI charge won’t stick. However, it’s important for you to realize that you can end up with a DUI in Delaware if you’re unable to drive safely due to the use of prescription medications.

Like any other kind of drug, prescription medications have the potential to influence your body in many ways. They could make you drowsy or make you more alert than usual. They could make you aggressive or change your moods. Knowing how you react to a medication is necessary, so that you don’t drive when you aren’t capable of doing so safely.

How can you be sure it’s safe to drive on your prescription medications?

The first time you take a medication, there’s not going to be any way to be certain that you can take it and drive safely. The only way to know how you’ll feel on the medication is to stay home or to have others drive for you through the first 24 to 48 hours. Why? You need to have time for the medication to set in and build up in your system. You’ll be able to tell quickly if it’s causing drowsiness or other problems that make it too dangerous for you to drive.

Can you drive legally while taking prescriptions?

You can, with the caveat that you have to drive safely while on the medications. For example, if you have no side effects from an allergy medication, it’s probably safe to drive on it. However, if the medication makes you extremely tired, then it’s a better option to avoid driving on the medication and to find a different medication or to take a ride-share service to get to your destination. Avoid driving if you’re tired, shaky, irritated or otherwise impacted by your medications.

Can the police test for prescription medication influence?

Looking into your medical records would let the authorities know if you were taking anything that could influence your driving, but this usually isn’t legal without cause. In most cases, people admit to taking cold medicine or other medications, but they don’t realize that this could lead to a DUI.

It’s best to allow your attorney to know about the situation and to give you advice on what to tell police. This could help prevent a DUI conviction.