We all know that driving under the influence of alcohol is dangerous, even deadly, but not many people consider the risks associated with driving under the influence of other types of substances. While alcohol is the most prevalent when it comes to DWI arrests, medications and so-called recreational drugs are also grounds for arrest during traffic stops. Now, you might be thinking, “How can something my doctor prescribed land me in jail?” It’s simple; it is not the legitimacy or legality of the substance in question, it’s how it affects your ability to navigate a vehicle.
At Brazoria County Bail Bonds in Angleton, TX, we understand that not everyone may know about the kinds of substances—legal or otherwise—that can land you in jail with a DWI. With this in mind, here are some of the more common substances to avoid if you are going to be driving a car.
Alcohol
Alcohol, even in small quantities, can limit your ability to make rational and timely decisions. Because everybody processes alcohol differently, you might feel fine even though your blood alcohol level is above the legal limit. Generally speaking, it takes an hour for your system to process an ounce of liquor, a beer or a glass of wine. If you have been drinking with friends at the bar and have taken multiple shots, you will want to wait a few hours before driving. Better yet, take a cab home. It might be expensive, but it’s not as costly as fighting a DWI arrest.
Medications
The experienced professionals at Brazoria County Bail Bonds in Angleton, TX will be the first to tell you it’s not just the combination of alcohol and driving that can land you in jail—medications and driving can, too. Even drugs prescribed by our doctors can have dangerous effects when coupled with motor vehicles, so be sure to read the labels and consult your doctor before taking them.
While you may need to take a medication to be healthy, a police officer will have to do their job if those meds impair your ability to drive. In other words, you will be arrested if you’re endangering others. Many drugs have sedative or painkilling properties, which can hinder your ability to think clearly, stay awake or make split-second decisions when driving a vehicle.
Recreational drugs
The term “recreational drugs” is often used to describe substances like marijuana, cocaine and other illegal but frequently used substances. Though police officers have few ways to field test for these substances, blood tests taken after an arrest can yield positive results. Marijuana can hinder your ability to act quickly and can make you drowsy, while cocaine can impair your ability to think and act in a rational manner. A host of other drugs share similar effects. If you are going to use recreational drugs, be sure you do not drive.
If you do get arrested for driving under the influence of a mentally impairing substance and cannot afford your bail, let Brazoria County Bail Bonds in Angleton, TX help. Contact us as soon as possible!