Driving under the influence is commonly associated with alcohol consumption, but what about drugged driving? As marijuana is now legal in Minnesota, and there is a continuous prevalence of prescription medications, the issue of driving while impaired by drugs is increasingly relevant.
The short answer is yes, you can get a DUI for drugged driving, and the consequences can be just as severe as those for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Consequences of drugged driving
In Minnesota, if you’re caught driving impaired, the penalties can vary. For a first-time offender, you might face jail time and a license suspension of 30 days to a year. With court fees, lawyer costs, and higher insurance rates, you could end up paying as much as $20,000
How is a drugged driver determined?
Whether they are illegal substances or something one is allowed to consume, such as marijuana or prescription medications, law enforcement officers are trained to recognize the signs of drug impairment during traffic stops. They may conduct field sobriety tests or request a blood or urine test to determine if a driver is under the influence of drugs.
Dangers of driving drugged
Just like alcohol, drugs can impair a person’s ability to operate a vehicle safely by affecting their coordination, reaction time, and judgment. Driving under the influence of drugs not only endangers the driver but also puts other road users at risk of serious injury or death.
Ultimately, the message is clear: if you’re under the influence of drugs, whether legal or illegal, it’s not safe or legal to get behind the wheel. Always designate a sober driver, use public transportation, or arrange for a ride-sharing service if you plan to consume drugs or alcohol. Your safety and the safety of others on the road depend on it.