Anyone consuming alcohol before getting behind a vehicle’s wheel risks charges of driving under the influence. Not all Oklahoma DUI charges involve drunk driving, though. Many criminal charges revolve around someone’s decision to use drugs before driving. When taking legal or illegal drugs, driving while impaired could lead to a crash and subsequent criminal and civil troubles.
Drugged driving remains a problem
A research study from the University of Cincinnati reveals troubling information about drugged driving. The study looked at figures from 2016 to 2018 and discovered a significant number of people drove while under the influence of marijuana and other drugs. The study also revealed alcohol remains more common in DUI incidents than drugged driving. Regardless, a significant number of people drive while impaired by drugs.
Sadly, a look at fatal accidents from 2016 reveals more than 40% of the drivers were under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The report shows why driving under the influence is so dangerous. Unfortunately, many people continue to drive while intoxicated, creating dangers to themselves and others.
Driving under the influence and its dangers
When someone drives under the influence of drugs, reaction time and perceptions could suffer limitations. Under normal traffic conditions, an intoxicated driver may find him or herself at significant risk of an accident. During inclement weather or other hazardous conditions, the danger level may increase.
After an accident, a driver could face more than DUI charges. Manslaughter and other serious felony charges may result. Prison time becomes a possibility.
Still, a positive test result may not be accurate. A driver could test positive for marijuana but used the drug many days ago. So, the driver might not have been under the influence at the time.
DUI charges could result in dire legal consequences. An attorney might help someone facing such charges by presenting a viable defense or plea bargaining.