Can I Get a DWI for Driving on Drugs in New Jersey?

When people hear about someone getting a DUI or DWI, they are likely picturing them intoxicated by alcohol and having a BAC of .08 or more. However, it is possible to get a DWI for driving while under the influence of drugs. If you were arrested for a drug DWI, it is important that you obtain skilled representation during your trial. Work with a Bergen County drug DWI attorney for knowledgeable legal counsel.

Can I Get a DWI For Driving Under the Influence of Drugs in NJ?

It is illegal to drive after consuming certain amounts of drugs and yes, you can get a DWI as a result. Driving while intoxicated simply refers to operating a motor vehicle while you are intoxicated by any substance that would make it dangerous for you to be driving. You can get arrested for a DWI for consuming controlled dangerous substances (CDS) or even prescription medication.

Drugs have varying effects but in general, they can:

• Diminish reaction times
• Impair vision
• Cause drowsiness or dizziness
• Impair cognitive functioning
• Increase aggressive tendencies
• Cause you to take risks you others wouldn’t
• Cause shakiness
• Affect judgment

Any of these symptoms can result in you losing control of the vehicle and causing an accident, injury, or even death.

What Drugs Are Illegal to Drive On?

Drugs can be very beneficial in medicine. Ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen, and more are all generally harmless over-the-counter drugs that can be used to help a variety of ailments. It is certainly not against the law to drive after taking two ibuprofen. So what drugs are illegal to drive on?

The more obvious drugs that can lead to a DWI are ones like marijuana, cocaine, oxycodone, fentanyl, morphine, methamphetamine, etc. There is no way to drive safely when you are impaired or intoxicated. That is why regardless of whether you have a prescription or not, it is illegal to drive under the influence of any potentially impairing drug. Using your drugs as prescribed in a way that does not impair you is perfectly legal. The issue comes about when drugs are misused or taken improperly, resulting in physical and mental effects.

What Are the Penalties for a Drug DWI in NJ?

For a first-offense drug DWI, individuals can expect to face the following.

• Fines of $300 to $500
• 12 to 48 hours spent at an IDRC (Intoxicated Driver Resource Center)
• Up to 30 days in prison
• License suspension of 7 months to 1 year
• $230 IDRC fine
• $100 DDEF (Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund)
• $100 AERF (Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund)
• $75 SNSF (Safe Neighborhood Services Fund)
• $50 VCCB (Violent Crimes Compensation Board)

Because the potential damages of driving while high are so risky, the penalties for a conviction are severe. If you were arrested for a drug DWI it is crucial that you work with experienced legal counsel to build a strong defense. Speak with a skilled attorney today.