It is illegal in every state to drive while under the influence of a mind-altering substance, but Rhode Island has specific statutes prohibiting drugged driving. While state law prohibits drivers from using any controlled substance, instances of drugged driving continue to rise nationwide. ![Driving on drugs | RI Car Accident Lawyer](https://dss.fosterwebmarketing.com/upload/843/Drugged-driving.jpeg)
Drugs and Impaired Driving
A survey published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in 2015 found that over 22% of drivers stopped by police on weekends tested positive for some type of drug, compared to just 8.3% of drivers who tested positive for alcohol.
It’s not only illegal drugs that have the ability to impair drivers. Many different types of drugs can alter a driver’s competence behind the wheel. Here is important information about driving while using any type of drug:
Illegal narcotics.
Methamphetamines, cocaine, and other stimulants can cause drivers to become aggressive or reckless, while opioids and tranquilizers can cause such extreme drowsiness that a driver may fall asleep behind the wheel.
Marijuana.
If an officer suspects that a driver may be under the influence of marijuana, the officer can compel the driver to provide a blood or urine sample for lab testing. If the chemical test reveals any detectable level of marijuana, the driver will be subject to a marijuana DUI and face a $500 fine, driver’s license suspension for up to 18 months, 20 to 60 hours of community service, and up to one year of jail time.