Manchester Drug DUI Lawyer

Defending Against Drugged Driving Accusations in New Hampshire

If you have been arrested for drugged driving in New Hampshire, you need an experienced Manchester drug DUI lawyer to defend your rights and protect your future. At George T. Campbell, Attorney at Law, we have handled thousands of criminal cases and have a proven track record of success. We know the New Hampshire court system inside and out and can help you navigate it with ease.

What Is Considered Drugged Driving in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, drugged driving, also known as driving under the influence of drugs (DUID), is a criminal offense that occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle while impaired by the influence of drugs, whether they are illegal substances, prescription medications, or over-the-counter drugs. The state takes drugged driving seriously to ensure the safety of all road users. Here's what you need to know about what is considered drugged driving in New Hampshire:

Impairment by Drugs

New Hampshire law (RSA 265-A:2) states that it is illegal to drive or operate a motor vehicle while impaired by any drug or combination of drugs to the extent that it affects the person's ability to drive safely. This includes both illegal drugs (such as marijuana, cocaine, or heroin) and legal drugs (such as prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs) if they impair the driver's abilities.

No Specific BAC Limit for Drugs

Unlike alcohol, which has a specific blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit (0.08% for adults), there is no specific BAC limit for drugs in New Hampshire. Law enforcement officers rely on their observations, field sobriety tests, and specialized drug recognition experts (DREs) to determine if a driver is impaired by drugs.

Types of Drugs

Drugged driving can involve various types of drugs, including:

1. Illegal Drugs: The use of illegal drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, or ecstasy, while driving can result in drugged driving charges if impairment is evident.
2. Prescription Medications: Driving under the influence of prescription medications, especially those that can cause drowsiness or impairment, can lead to DUID charges if the driver's abilities are compromised.
3. Over-the-Counter Drugs: Some over-the-counter medications, like certain cough syrups or antihistamines, can cause drowsiness or impair cognitive functions. Using these drugs before driving can result in drugged driving charges if impairment is detected.

Penalties for Drugged Driving

If you are convicted of drugged driving in New Hampshire, you can face penalties similar to those for alcohol-related DWI (Driving While Impaired) offenses. These penalties can include fines, license suspension, mandatory substance abuse education programs, and potentially even jail time. Penalties may vary depending on factors such as the specific drug involved, prior convictions, and the presence of aggravating factors like accidents or injuries.

Law Enforcement's Role

New Hampshire law enforcement officers are trained to recognize signs of drugged driving during traffic stops. They may conduct field sobriety tests or call upon a DRE to assess a driver's impairment. Additionally, some cases may involve chemical testing of blood or urine to detect the presence of drugs.

It's important to note that New Hampshire has a "per se" DUID law, which means that the mere presence of certain controlled substances in a driver's system can result in DUID charges, regardless of impairment. However, this typically applies to specific drugs listed in the state's laws.

If you or someone you know is facing drugged driving charges in New Hampshire, it's crucial to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can provide guidance and build a strong defense tailored to your case's circumstances.

Choose a Firm with a Proven Track Record

At George T. Campbell, Attorney at Law, we have handled many criminal cases. We know the New Hampshire court system inside and out and can help you navigate it with ease. We will work with you to build a strong defense for your drunk driving charges. We are available 24/7 for our clients and are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Contact a Manchester drug DUI lawyer from our firm today to schedule a free initial consultation. We are available 24/7 and can be reached at (603) 787-5364.