DUI while on Drugs – Dod Law Aggressively Defends SoCal DUIs

DUI on Drugs

Being charged with a DUI for driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) can be just as serious—and sometimes even more complicated—than an alcohol-related DUI. California law treats drug DUIs harshly, whether the alleged substance is a prescription medication, marijuana, or an illegal drug.

Dod Law knows that not every driver accused of being “under the influence” is guilty. Medications and drug test results are often misinterpreted, and the police frequently rely on subjective opinions rather than clear evidence. This is why our firm provides aggressive, experienced, and strategic DUI defense for individuals charged with drug-related DUIs across San Diego and Southern California.

Understanding a DUI on Drugs

Under California Vehicle Code §23152(f), it is illegal to drive under the influence of any drug that impairs your ability to drive safely. However, unlike alcohol DUIs, where a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher automatically implies impairment, there is no set limit for drugs.

Police officers and prosecutors must rely on observations, field sobriety tests, and chemical tests to prove impairment—methods that are often unreliable and open to interpretation.

A drug DUI arrest can involve:

• Prescription medications such as Xanax, Ambien, or painkillers
• Marijuana or THC products
• Over-the-counter medications that cause drowsiness or slowed reactions
• Illegal substances such as cocaine or methamphetamine

Even legally prescribed medications can lead to DUI charges if an officer believes you were “too impaired” to drive.

The Challenges of Drug DUI Testing

Drug DUI cases are complex because testing for drugs is far less accurate than testing for alcohol. Blood or urine samples can show the presence of a substance—but not whether it was active or impairing at the time of driving.

For example, THC from marijuana can remain in your bloodstream for days or even weeks after use, long after any effects have worn off. This often leads to unjust arrests and wrongful convictions.

We carefully examine the methods and accuracy of all chemical tests. We often bring in toxicology experts to challenge test results and show that the evidence does not prove impairment beyond a reasonable doubt.

Dod Law’s Aggressive Defense for Drug DUIs

Attorney Dod and his team take a strategic, evidence-based approach to defending clients charged with drug-related DUIs. Our defense may include:

1. Challenging the traffic stop – We determine whether law enforcement had a valid reason to stop your vehicle in the first place.
2. Questioning field sobriety tests – These tests are often subjective and unreliable, especially if you have a medical condition or were tired.
3. Analyzing chemical test procedures – We investigate whether proper testing protocols were followed and whether lab errors or contamination occurred.
4. Examining the Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) evaluation – DRE officers are not medical professionals, and their opinions can be flawed or biased.
5. Arguing lack of impairment – Presence of a substance does not equal impairment. We use scientific evidence and expert witnesses to prove it.

Our goal is simple: to have your charges reduced, dismissed, or resolved with the least possible impact on your record and your life.

Consequences of a Drug DUI in California

A conviction for driving under the influence of drugs can lead to:

• Fines and court fees totaling thousands of dollars
• License suspension by the DMV
• Probation or mandatory DUI school
• Possible jail time
• Increased insurance premiums and long-term record consequences

If this is not your first DUI, penalties can be even more severe—including longer suspensions and possible felony charges. This is why having an experienced Southern California DUI defense lawyer is critical from the very start.

Why Choose Dod Law

Dod Law has successfully  defended hundreds of DUI cases throughout San Diego and beyond. We understand how prosecutors approach drug DUI cases—and we know how to expose weaknesses in their evidence.

• Extensive experience in both alcohol and drug DUI defense
• Aggressive, strategic representation in court and DMV hearings
• Personalized attention to your case from start to finish
• Proven track record protecting clients’ rights, licenses, and freedom

We do not back down. We fight for the best possible outcome—whether that means dismissal, reduction of charges, or acquittal at trial.

Call Dod Law for a Free Consultation | DUI on Drugs

If you have been arrested for a DUI while on drugs in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, don’t face the system alone. Contact Dod Law today for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and begin building a strong defense immediately.

Dod Law – Strongly Defending SoCal DUIs with Aggressive, Proven DUI Defense.

To schedule a free consultation with a member of our first-class legal team, call us today at our San Diego office (619) 814-5110 | Orange County office 949-681-7020  | Vista office 760-814-6025 | or schedule an appointment by filling out our online contact form