For most people, the term ‘DUI’ is directly associated with the words ‘drinking and driving’. This is probably because DUIs are generally connected with alcohol and alcohol consumption. However, DUIs are not just for those who have been drinking and driving. In Arizona, you can also be charged with a DUI if you drive under the influence of drugs, INCLUDING prescription drugs, illegal drugs, supplements, vitamins, minerals and over-the-counter medications. In fact, if ANY substance has altered your attention span, focus, decision-making ability, reaction time, etc., you could face Arizona DUI charges. All the officer has to do is declare you “impaired to the slightest degree.”
Another difficult part of DUI arrests comes into play here. Standard tests like the breath test, will not effectively register the presence of drugs, meaning a blood or urine test will have to be administered upon suspicion of driving while under the influence of drugs. Blood and urine test results can be EXTREMELY biased if presented in court. There are many deficiencies that can occur during testing thus weakening the prosecution’s case if uncovered. If you submitted to a blood or urine test during an Arizona DUI arrest, you need to speak with an experience Mesa DUI attorney immediately.
Arizona DUI cases can get even more complicated when officers see or discover drugs or substances with you in the vehicle. In these situations, possession charges can be added to the Arizona DUI charge. Since there are so many components that go into an Arizona DUI arrest, it is important for you to make sure your rights are protected. You might not have known at the time of your arrest that certain supplements or legal prescriptions can affect your skills behind the wheel. Consulting with expert lawyer Charlie Naegle will help you sort out the specifics of your case and help you discover what your rights and options are when facing a criminal DUI charge in Arizona.
Charlie Naegle is a Mesa DUI Attorney who works with individuals in Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Phoenix, Gilbert, Apache Junction, Scottsdale and Glendale. Naegle & Crider Criminal Defense Attorneys has offices in Mesa and Phoenix for convenient access across the Phoenix metropolitan area. For more information or to schedule your free, confidential, 24/7 consultation, call 480-245-5550 immediately.