Most Georgia residents need to take some type of prescription medication from time to time. You may have gotten sick recently and needed a prescription antibiotic or found out that you have high blood pressure and need a prescription to address it. Whatever the reason, you understand the importance of taking your prescription exactly by the provided directions.
What you may not understand, however, is that, even after taking your prescription as directed, you could wind up facing criminal charges for DUI. This possibility may seem outlandish to you, but in reality, certain medications can affect your abilities, putting you and others at risk if you get behind the wheel.
Side effects
Most medications come with warnings regarding possible side effects. Depending on the medication, those possible effects could range from minor to severe. However, even if you believe the side effects will not significantly affect you, they may have more of an impact than you initially realized. Some issues stemming from legal drugs include the following:
- Blurred vision
- Fainting or lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Reduced reaction times
- Reduced focus
- Drowsiness
Any of these seemingly minor issues could easily have major impacts because any could contribute to a serious car accident. If an accident occurs, you could face charges for DUI and a number of other severe outcomes. Of course, an accident does not have to take place for charges to come about.
Facing arrest
Before a car accident occurs, you may exhibit signs of impairment in your driving. You may have delayed reactions to changing traffic signals or drift out of your lane. If an officer notices concerning actions regarding your driving, he or she may pull you over. Though you have not consumed alcohol and you took your medication legally, the danger you pose to other drivers could still result in an officer taking you into custody for DUI.
You may feel shocked and want to defend yourself immediately, but remaining quiet may work in your favor at first. Before disclosing information, you may want to discuss your situation with an attorney. Taking this step early on may help you quickly find the best manner in which to address your case. Legal advocates are available who could provide you with useful information and assistance throughout your case and help you feel more at ease.
