What Constitutes Drugged Driving in Idaho?
It’s essential to understand what constitutes drugged driving in Idaho to defend against the harsh consequences of an Idaho drug DUI conviction. Under Idaho Code §18-8004, it’s illegal for a person to operate a vehicle under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or other intoxicating substances. This includes marijuana, which is still illegal in Idaho.
Common Drugs That Constitute DUI
While it’s common to associate DUI offenses with drunk driving, drugged driving can also lead to severe criminal penalties under Idaho’s DUI laws. Any drug or medication can warrant DUI charges, regardless of whether it’s an illegal substance.
Common drugs leading to Idaho DUI arrest include:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Sleeping aids, such as Ambien or Lunesta
- Methamphetamines, such as Adderall or Ritalin
- Opiates, such as fentanyl, OxyContin, or Vicodin
Even over-the-counter medications can lead to DUI charges if they impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. This includes cold, cough, and allergy medicines that contain ingredients like codeine or dextromethorphan.
Penalties for Drug DUI
The penalties for a drug or medication DUI conviction are the same as a DUI involving alcohol. Criminal penalties will vary based on numerous factors, such as prior convictions and whether the DUI offense resulted in bodily harm or death.
Under Idaho law, the penalties for a drug DUI conviction include:
- First Drug DUI: This constitutes misdemeanor charges punishable by up to 6 months in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, and license suspension.
- Second Drug DUI: This generally constitutes misdemeanor charges punishable by up to 1 year in jail, up to $2,000 in fines, and license suspension.
- Third Drug DUI: This constitutes felony charges punishable by up to 10 years in jail, up to $5,000 fines, and license suspension.
If the DUI resulted in bodily injury to another, this constitutes an aggravated DUI, which can result in significantly enhanced penalties. Securing experienced representation from a DUI defense attorney is imperative to avoid the permanent consequences of a DUI conviction.
Can I Be Arrested for DUI if I Have a Prescription?
Yes, you can be charged with DUI even for using a lawfully-prescribed medication. Idaho Code §18-8004(7) makes it clear that even being legally entitled to the drug in your system does not constitute a defense in a DUI case. Even DUI offenders with a valid drug prescription can be arrested for DUI if they operate a vehicle while intoxicated.
What Are the Penalties for Marijuana DUI?
Marijuana is illegal in Idaho, meaning it’s against the law to possess or use any amount of cannabis for any reason. The penalties for a marijuana DUI conviction are the same as those for an alcohol DUI. This means that a first-time marijuana DUI is punishable by up to 6 months in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, and license suspension.
However, unlike alcohol DUIs, there’s no legal limit for marijuana intoxication levels. Even trace amounts of THC in your system can lead to DUI charges if law enforcement believes you were impaired while driving.
Can I Face DUI Charges with a Medicinal Marijuana Card?
What Our Clients are Saying
Reviews & Testimonials
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Sam was beyond thoughtful and extremely helpful with my first and only DUI. He brought ease to the high stress situation from the first phone call. He got me a great deal and was worth every penny. 10/10 recommend!- Chris A.
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Sam and his team are amazing! My DUI charge got completely dropped and he walked me through every step.- Brian L.
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Sam is a very kind and professional man! Himself and the team made sure I was prepared and comfortable throughout my whole process.- Aerin G.
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Sam and the team were very helpful and comforting in my time of stress, I am very fortunate to have found them and would have them represent me again if the need ever arose.- Joshua A.
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Sam was beyond thoughtful and extremely helpful with my first and only DUI. He brought ease to the high stress situation from the first phone call. He got me a great deal and was worth every penny.- Chris A.
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Sam and his assistants supported me throughout the whole process and encouraged me to contact them anytime I needed them. They were all very personable and took so much pressure off my shoulders.- Nicole R.
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Sam and his team helped out greatly in a terrible situation. They were there every step of the way and I believe their recommendations helped get me a great resolution in my case. I was facing stiff fines and punishments but was lucky to get a very lenient sentence.
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Sam is amazing to work with! He eased my mind through the whole situation, and fought for me getting the best outcome possible! He is super responsive and helpful with anything I need.- Hannah L.
Protecting Your Freedom & Future in Boise
If you were arrested for marijuana or drug DUI in Boise or the surrounding area, securing a robust defense is imperative to avoid harsh penalties. Even first-time offenders can reap severe and lasting consequences. At Idaho Legal Justice, our attorneys are dedicated to helping good people take back their lives after a DUI arrest.
With Spanish-speaking agents and free consultations available, our skilled team is available 24/7 to serve you. Don’t throw away your future by failing to secure experienced representation. If you’re facing DUI charges, turn to an award-winning criminal defense firm with a proven track record of results for sound counsel and aggressive representation.
Facing DUI charges? Don’t let one mistake ruin your life. Contact us online to discuss your case with our Boise attorneys.
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