If you’re prescribed medication, you might not realize that taking it could still lead to a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charge. In New York, it’s not just alcohol that can impair your ability to drive. Prescription medications can also affect your coordination, judgment, and reaction time, putting you at risk for a DWI arrest.
How prescription medication affects driving
Certain prescription medications, including painkillers, anti-anxiety medications, and sleep aids, can impair your ability to drive safely. Even though these medications are legally prescribed, they can slow your reflexes or make it harder to concentrate. The law in New York doesn’t distinguish between alcohol and prescription drugs when it comes to driving under the influence.
If you take medication that causes drowsiness or dizziness, you risk being charged with a DWI if you drive. If the medication impairs your driving, you may face the same penalties as if you were driving drunk. The law focuses more on whether your ability to drive is compromised than the level of impairment.
Prescription medication and the DWI charge
When you’re pulled over for suspected impaired driving in New York, law enforcement officers can ask you to take a sobriety test. If the officer suspects you’re impaired due to prescription medication, they may administer field sobriety tests or a blood test. Even if you’re under the legal limit for alcohol, a positive test for drugs can lead to a DWI charge.
Certain medications are more likely to lead to impairment. If you’re taking medication that could impact your ability to drive, it’s good to consult your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects.
Protecting yourself from a DWI charge
To avoid a DWI charge due to prescription medication, be aware of how your medication affects you before you drive. Read the warning labels and instructions, and do not drive if you feel impaired. If you’re unsure, consider using alternative transportation like public transit or a rideshare service.
Taking prescription medication doesn’t give you a free pass to drive impaired. Stay safe by making informed decisions about when and how to drive.
New York’s laws take impaired driving seriously, regardless of whether alcohol or prescription drugs are involved. When in doubt, prioritize your safety and others on the road.
