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Drugged Driving Charges in Connecticut

In the state of Connecticut, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs. Unlike alcohol impairment, there is currently no blood testing standard for measuring a person’s level of intoxication from drugs that can determine a person’s conviction. A driver’s level of impairment is determined on a case-by-case basis by the prosecution, with the objective of proving that a driver was intoxicated enough to lose some degree of control over their vehicle.

Can I Be Arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs?

Yes. Connecticut’s laws encompass nearly any type of drug, including illicit drugs, controlled prescription drugs, and medical marijuana. Possessing a valid prescription for a certain drug does not absolve a person from being charged.

A person can be arrested for drugged driving for any of the following substances:

  • Marijuana
  • Cocaine
  • Heroin
  • Ecstasy
  • Barbiturates
  • Vicodin
  • OxyContin

What Are the Penalties for a Drugged Driving Conviction in CT?

Drugged driving offenders are charged with driving under the influence (DUI) and are subject to the same penalties as those for driving while alcohol impaired. A conviction of driving under the influence of drugs will be considered as a prior or subsequent offence for the purposes of sentencing, regardless of whether additional convictions were related to alcohol or drug impairment.

For a first offense, penalties are as follows:

  • Up to six months in jail
  • Fines up to $1,000
  • A one-year driver’s license suspension

Subsequent offenses are much more serious. For a second offense, penalties will increase to a maximum of two years in jail and up to $4,000 in fines, while a third offense will have consequences jump up to three years in jail, a maximum of $8,000 in fines, and a permanent driver’s license suspension. Penalties can increase even further if a person refuses to submit to a post-arrest chemical test.

Arrested? Call (877) 795-5594

If you have been arrested on drugged driving charges, it is imperative that you contact a hard-hitting DUI defense attorney from Carlson & Dumeer, LLC as soon as possible to minimize your chances of serving these harsh consequences.

Having defended countless clients against various criminal charges throughout our firm’s existence, we can craft a custom-tailored defense aimed at securing a reduction or dismissal of your charges.

Contact our office online today to take the first step towards retaining the defense you deserve.

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