Driving Under the Influence of Drugs Blood Test

When a police officer believes a driver may be under the influence of drugs, a blood test is typically used to determine whether his or her suspicion is correct. In addition to detecting the presence of any illegal narcotics, a blood test also identifies any over-the-counter or prescription medications the subject has recently used.

Unlike alcohol, which can be measured by a person’s blood alcohol content (BAC), there is no standard method for determining a person’s level of intoxication from drugs. As a result, many states prohibit driving with any amount or type of drug in your system.

In addition to detecting the presence of drugs, blood tests also measure the amount that is present—revealing even the smallest traces. However, since each person’s body breaks down these substances differently, certain drugs may remain in your system for several days after they are ingested (marijuana, for example, can show up in a blood test for up to thirty days after it was last used). This unfortunately means that even sober drivers can be charged with driving under the influence of drugs.

Depending on the state, a blood test may be conducted at the police station or a medical facility—they should never be given at the location of your traffic stop. There are also strict procedures for administering, transporting, and analyzing blood tests. While these guidelines vary from state to state, officers must follow all of them in order for the results to be admissible in court.

If an officer asks you to submit to blood testing, be aware that, by law, you must comply with the request. The reason for this is due to the implied consent law, which requires all registered drivers to submit to blood, urine, or breath testing when asked. The penalties for refusing to take a blood test are often more severe than what you would receive if you failed it. In many areas, you may even be charged with a separate offense for violating the state’s implied consent law.

If you were recently charged with DUID after a blood test indicated drugs were present in your system, it is important to discuss your case with a skilled defense attorney immediately. Remember, the right defense can make all the difference in the world, and with an experienced attorney at your side, you may be able to eliminate penalties such as fines, license suspension, and jail time. Discuss your case with an attorney in your area today.