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5 Types of Drugs That May Lead to OWI Charges in Wisconsin
Drunk driving is known to be dangerous, and drivers who get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol could be pulled over and arrested on criminal charges. However, operating while intoxicated (OWI) charges are not limited to alcohol impairment alone. In the state of Wisconsin, driving under the influence of intoxicating drugs is also a serious offense that can result in severe consequences. Following an arrest for OWI due to the use of drugs, it is important for a person to secure representation from an attorney who has experience handling these types of cases. An OWI defense lawyer can assist with cases involving drugs such as:
Marijuana
Marijuana, also known as cannabis or weed, is one of the most commonly used illicit drugs in Wisconsin. Despite its legalization in multiple other states, including the neighboring states of Illinois and Michigan, marijuana remains illegal for recreational use in Wisconsin. If a person operates a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana, they can be charged with an OWI.
The effects of marijuana on driving ability include impaired coordination, slowed reaction time, distorted perception of time and distance, and decreased concentration. These impairments significantly increase the risk of accidents on the road.
Prescription Medications
Certain types of prescription drugs can have powerful effects on a person’s ability to drive safely. Medications such as opioids (e.g., oxycodone), benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax), and sleep aids (e.g., Ambien) can cause drowsiness or sedation, which can impair a person’s judgment, reaction time, and bodily control, making accidents more likely to occur. Under Wisconsin law, a person who is under the influence of any substance that makes them incapable of operating a vehicle safely may be charged with OWI.
Cocaine and Stimulants
Cocaine and other stimulant drugs like methamphetamine are potent substances that affect both physical and mental functioning. They can lead to increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, aggression, paranoia, hallucinations, and impaired judgment. If caught driving while under the influence of these types of stimulants, a person can face OWI charges. Even small amounts of these drugs in a person's system can result in impairment and legal consequences.
Hallucinogens
Hallucinogenic drugs such as LSD (acid), psilocybin mushrooms, and MDMA (ecstasy) can alter a person’s perceptions, thoughts, and feelings. These drugs can cause visual hallucinations, confusion, panic attacks, and impaired judgment. Driving while under the influence of hallucinogens poses significant risks not only to the driver but also to other road users. Because of this, the use of these drugs may lead to criminal charges for intoxicated driving.
Polydrug Use
In some cases, the use of multiple drugs or substances simultaneously can result in intoxication, even if the amount of one single substance would not necessarily cause a person to become impaired. This practice is known as polydrug use, and it significantly increases the risk of impairment while driving. The combination of different substances can have unpredictable effects on a person’s physical coordination, cognitive abilities, and decision-making skills. For example, the combination of alcohol with certain prescription drugs may result in intoxication. Other substances, such as over-the-counter cold and flu medicines, can also induce drowsiness, and if they affect a person’s ability to drive safely, their use can result in OWI charges.
Contact Our Milwaukee Drugged Driving Defense Lawyers
If you are facing OWI charges related to drug impairment in Wisconsin, Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP can provide you with legal representation to help you defend against a conviction or determine how you can minimize the potential penalties that you may face. Our experienced Milwaukee OWI defense attorneys understand the complexities surrounding OWI cases involving drug intoxication, and we will provide you with strong defense strategies tailored to your specific situation. To schedule a consultation, contact our office at 414-271-1440.
