Driving while high in Florida? Expect a DUI

October 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. 

Recent Posts

Two people in suits shaking hands near a car, one holding a gavel.
November 3, 2025
Epstein & Robbins: DUI lawyer serving Nassau County, FL. Defend your rights. Call us at (904) 354-5645 for DUI defense advice today.
Woman pointing at a document, discussing it with a person. They sit at a desk.
September 26, 2025
Worried about your license after a DUI? This blog from Epstein & Robbins, a DUI attorney in St. Johns County, FL, offers vital guidance. Click to learn more.
White paper with
July 7, 2025
Do you need a DUI lawyer in St. Johns County, FL? Call Epstein & Robbins at (904) 354-5645. Fighting for your rights since 1975.
Person holding two beer bottles while driving a car; blurred background shows other cars.
June 12, 2025
Facing a DUI in Neptune Beach, FL? Epstein & Robbins can help. Call 904-354-5645 to speak with an experienced DUI attorney in Neptune Beach, FL, today!
Person in a suit signing legal documents with a pen; scales of justice and a gavel in the background.
February 27, 2025
Facing DUI charges in Atlantic Beach, FL? Contact Epstein & Robbins at 904-354-5645 for reliable legal defense from a trusted DUI attorney.
Book titled
February 27, 2025
Arrested for DUI in Neptune Beach, FL? Learn how Epstein & Robbins DUI attorneys can guide you through the legal process and what steps to take.
November 26, 2020
When people hear the charge of Driving Under the Influence, they typically think of driving under the influence of alcohol. However, under Florida law, a person
November 8, 2020
If you have been convicted of DUI in Florida, the court may order you to have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed on your vehicle. Depending on the
October 27, 2020
Residents from all over the nation travel to Florida. While many will enter the state through air travel, many will still operate a motor vehicle in the state.
September 27, 2020
Getting together with friends and family to watch the big game, be it college or NFL, is a great way to spend an evening, especially if your team wins. Good
Show More