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Driving while high in Florida? Expect a DUI

On behalf of Epstein & Robbins • Oct 11, 2020

Drug use is a controversial issue, but in the end drugged driving in Florida can be just as dangerous as drunk driving, and people in the Jacksonville can face significant penalties if they receive a DUI involving drugs. The following is an overview of how drug use affects driving, and the penalties for a DUI involving drugs.

Why Is Drugged Driving So Dangerous?

Let’s take marijuana use as an example. If a person drives while high on marijuana, their reaction time may be slowed, and their short-term memory may be affected. They may have problems concentrating, along with problems with their hand-eye coordination. They may find it harder to perceive time and distance.


It is important to note that the effects of marijuana use is different for every person, so there is no “legal limit” like there is for alcohol. Also, marijuana can remain in a person’s system affecting them for a greater length of time than alcohol.

What Are The Penalties For A DUI Based On Drug Use?

A person who receives a DUI based on drug use can face the same penalties as a person who receives a DUI based on alcohol use. These penalties include stiff fines, the loss of your driver’s license and jail time. In addition, a DUI based on drug use can stay on your criminal record for as many as 75 years.

Driving High Is Illegal In Florida

Ultimately, it is important to understand that police in Florida will take drugged driving every bit as seriously as drunk driving. It is not good to assume that you are safe to drive while high. Those who are facing a DUI based on drug use will want to take all the steps necessary to develop a solid defense strategy that will reduce the charges against them or have the charges dropped altogether.

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