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The Name You Know.
The Name You Trust.

We have deep ties to the community, we have represented clients in Southwest Florida for more than 25 years.

The Name You
Know.
The Name You
Trust.

We have deep ties to the community, we have represented clients in Southwest Florida for more than 25 years.

Photo of Ian F. Mann

Can I get a DUI without drinking alcohol?

You may think that you can avoid getting a DUI in Fort Myers if you do not drink alcohol before driving. But there are other ways you can end up with an operating a vehicle while impaired charge. The law does not limit impairment substances to just alcohol, states FindLaw. If you drive while you are under the influence of marijuana, illegal drugs, prescription medications and other substances, you could end up losing your driver’s license, spending some time behind bars, paying fines and fees and dealing with the lingering consequences of your actions. 

It is important for you to consider the effects of any medication or substance you take. You must use sound judgment to know when you to put your keys down and wait until the effects wear off. Keep in mind there is the possibility that you may not realize you are in no condition to operate a motor vehicle. Your vehicle does not have to be on for you to end up with a DUI/DWI charge either. 

A good rule of thumb to follow is if you consume alcohol, marijuana or some other drug or narcotic that could potentially cause you to think and act differently than you normally would and interfere with your ability to drive safely, do not drive. Have someone else who is not under the influence of anything drive you where you need to go. You should also consider waiting several hours until the effects have worn completely off. 

DUIs are serious charges and can irrevocably change your life and the lives of others in ways that are unimaginable. If you are facing a DUI charge, get legal help to minimize the consequences and its effect on your life.

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