Over the holiday weekend, Tennessee law enforcement officials arrested several people for intoxicated or drugged driving. As is common over many holiday weekends, police officers were out in increased numbers to patrol the roads and discourage drunk driving. After the weekend was over, it was learned that there were almost as many people arrested for drugged driving as there were for DUI.

The dangers of drinking and driving are well known and widely publicized by law enforcement in the days leading up to a popular holiday. However, people may not be aware of the dangers of drugged driving or know that the penalties for this crime can be as steep as those for drunk driving convictions. Drugged driving includes driving under the influence of illegal drugs, such as marijuana, as well as legal prescription medications that can affect a person’s abilities and cognitive skills.

Due to the increase in the number of drivers caught while under the influence of drugs, Tennessee law enforcement officers are receiving training on how to spot drug users, dealers and buyers. One of the most common drugs consumed by intoxicated drivers is marijuana. Despite the push to legalize the drug in many states, reports indicate that drivers who are high often display similar behaviors as those who are under the influence of alcohol.

If a driver is arrested for drunk driving or suspected drugged driving, he or she retains the right to secure the assistance of an attorney, along with the presumption of innocence. The best way to do this is to enlist the services of an experienced defense lawyer. A person would be wise to seek a case evaluation as soon as possible after an arrest.

Source: wdef.com, “Officers Arrest Almost as Many Drug Users as DUI’s Over the Memorial Day Weekend“, Bill Mitchell, May 31, 2016