These common drugs could get you arrested for a DUI in Oklahoma

February 12, 2021 by G.W. Schulz

You already know by now that driving under the influence of alcohol in Oklahoma can lead to jail time, fines, and other consequences. But a surprisingly long list of common drugs we all take everyday can lead to DUI charges that are just as serious.

Lawmakers in Oklahoma passed a zero-tolerance law in 2013 making it a crime to drive a car with any detectable amount of certain drugs that can cause impairment in your blood, saliva, or urine.

A doctor’s prescription or medical marijuana card makes no difference. Legal drugs that haven’t been consumed for weeks but appear in your system can still lead to charges. Even over-the-counter drugs for treating motion-sickness and diarrhea make the list.

Are any of these in your medicine cabinet?

Here are some of the most commonly used drugs that can lead to trouble behind the wheel.

Opioid pain relief (Vicodin, Dilaudid, Demerol, OxyContin, codeine)

• Drowsiness, confusion, euphoria, and feelings of “highness” and relaxation

• Anti-anxiety and sleep aids (Xanax, Valium, Ativan, Ambien, Lunesta)

• Slurred speech, dizziness, poor concentration, memory issues
• Can also include barbiturates used to treat seizures

• Muscle relaxers (Flexeril, Robaxin, Soma)

• Grogginess, confusion, and impaired cognitive performance

Cough and cold medications (Benadryl, Allegra, Claritin, Zyrtec)

• Sleepiness, slow reaction times, slurred speech and dizziness

Antipsychotic drugs (Haldol, Risperdal, Seroquel)

• Tremors, strokes, and a reduction in psychomotor skills (coordination, dexterity, speed)

Antidepressants (Zoloft, Prozac, Lexepro)

• Dizziness, nausea, headaches, insomnia (which slows your driving performance)
• Effects are significantly heightened with alcohol
• Antidepressant Wellbutrin can cause seizures when combined with alcohol
• Withdrawals can lead to negative effects on driving ability

Diarrhea, motion sickness treatment (Imodium, Dramamine, transdermal patches)

• Euphoria, loss of consciousness, fainting, drowsiness, blurred vision, and disorientation

Prescription stimulants (Ritalin, Dexedrine, Adderall)

• Lack of attention, a reduced awareness of the intoxicating effects of alcohol, psychosis and anger, and impaired judgment

Keep these facts in mind

Don’t forget that even if you have a doctor’s prescription or medical marijuana card, you can still get arrested for a DUI. The penalties in Oklahoma are the same for drugs as they are for alcohol. Your first offense could lead to thousands of dollars in fines and up to a year in jail. Two can lead to a felony criminal record.

You are free to refuse a field sobriety test or even blood test. But the officer can still conduct an arrest and obtain a warrant for your blood, which you cannot refuse. Even if you haven’t ingested a drug for weeks, it can still be detected and result in DUI charges.

Your best defense if arrested for a drug-related DUI is an experienced attorney who can tell your side of the story and challenge any unconstitutional shortcuts taken by police.