Most DUI stops in Michigan revolve around alcohol use. People may have been drinking at bars or restaurants or simply having alcoholic beverages at home. They get pulled over by police officers, who then administer a breath test to determine their blood alcohol concentration and level of impairment.
But it is also important to remember the role prescription drugs can play. Impaired driving is still illegal, even if that impairment comes from a prescription medication and not alcohol.
Operating a motor vehicle
First and foremost, consider the instructions that come with any prescription drug, and even some over-the-counter medications. They may tell you not to operate a motor vehicle after taking the medication in question.
In some cases, this is phrased as “operating heavy machinery.” People sometimes overlook the fact that this includes driving a car, not just using construction machinery, forklifts or something of that nature.
Exaggerated effects
On top of that, remember that some medications can exaggerate the effects of alcohol. Examples could include certain blood thinners, painkillers or other medications that cause drowsiness or impairment.
In other words, a person may think that it is no problem to have one drink and drive their car because they normally would be well under the legal limit. But if they are also taking a certain medication, a much smaller amount of alcohol than usual could still lead to significant impairment.
Your defense options
If you are facing drunk driving allegations in Michigan, they can have a major impact on your future and your reputation. Be sure you know what legal defense options you have.