Driving While Impaired by Drugs

BY DANIEL G. RODGERS, ESQ.

In Suffolk County, New York, the criminal penalties for driving while impaired by drugs vary depending on the specific circumstances of the offense. Your matter will be decided in the Central Islip First District Court or the County Court in Riverhead. Generally, the penalties can include fines, license suspension or revocation, and imprisonment.

For a first-time offense of driving while ability impaired by drugs (DWAI-Drug) in Suffolk County, which means the driver's ability to operate a vehicle is impaired to any extent by drugs, the penalties may include:

• A fine of $500 to $1,000
• A criminal record (Misdemeanor)
• A maximum of 1 year in jail
• A minimum of 6 months license revocation
• Completion of a substance abuse program

For a first-time offense of driving while intoxicated by drugs (DWI-Drug), which means the driver has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or is impaired to any extent by drugs, the penalties may include:

• A fine of $500 to $1,000
• A criminal record (Misdemeanor)
• A maximum of 1 year in jail
• A minimum of 6 months license revocation
• Completion of a substance abuse program

For a second DWI-Drug or DWAI-Drug offense within 10 years, the penalties may include:

• A fine of $1,000 to $5,000
• A Felony Criminal Record
• A maximum of 4 years in prison
• A minimum of 1 year license revocation
• Completion of a substance abuse program

These penalties might increase if the driver causes serious injury or death to another person while driving under the influence of drugs. It's always best to avoid driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.

If you are arrested and charged with driving while impaired by drugs in Suffolk County, you should obtain the advice of an experienced Suffolk County DWI lawyer or attorney.