What if I am
arrested for
driving with drugs
in my system?
The Drunk Driving Statute makes it a misdemeanor to drive with any Schedule 1 controlled substance such as heroin, cocaine, or marijuana in your body. The law does not require that the drugs affect your driving. The mere presence of drugs in your body is grounds for conviction. Upon conviction you could receive the following:
- Up to 93 days in jail.
- Fines up to $500, plus court costs.
- 360 hours community service.
- Immobilization of your vehicle up to 180 days, unless forfeited.
- Suspension of your driver’s license for 180 days with a restricted licensed issued after 30 days.
- Assessment of six (6) points against your driving record.
- A requirement to pay a Driver’s Responsibility Fee of $500 a year for two (2) years, to the Secretary of State.
Subsequent convictions will result in increased jail terms (or even prison), fines and costs and immobilization or forfeiture of your vehicle as well as revocation of your drivers license for a minimum of one (1) year to a possible five (5), during which time you will not be eligible for a restricted license.
