The most common way for people to get DUI charges in Texas is if they’ve been drinking alcohol. If that alcohol impairs their ability to drive, they can technically be arrested, even if they’re under the legal limit. If they fail a breath test by having a BAC that is over 0.08%, that can also lead to an arrest.
But it is important to remember that you don’t actually have to drink alcohol to find yourself facing charges. There are a few other ways that this can happen.
Prescription drugs
For instance, it’s very important to read the instructions anytime you’re using prescription drugs. It is legal for you to use these substances, but some of them come with strict stipulations.
For example, many drugs state that you should avoid using heavy machinery for a certain amount of time after taking them. People tend to think of bulldozers, forklifts, excavators and other types of machines. But heavy machinery also includes your car, so driving after using these prescriptions could be problematic.
Illegal drugs
Similarly, anyone who has been using illegal drugs runs the risk of facing impaired driving charges. Maybe someone has been recreationally using painkillers or smoking marijuana at a party with friends. They may not fail a breath test because they have no alcohol in their system, but they could certainly still be arrested.
Legal defense options
If you do find yourself facing DUI charges for any of these reasons, they can have a major impact on your future and your finances. Be sure you understand all the legal defense options you have.