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Study Indicates that States Which Legalized Marijuana Have More Auto Accidents

Were you or someone close to you recently arrested for drugged driving in New Jersey? If so, we can help you defend against these charges. Our hard-working New Jersey DWI attorneys will work diligently to have your charges reduced or, if possible, dropped altogether. We will review your case and discuss all of your legal options with you during a free, no obligation consultation.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently revealed that motor vehicle accidents in states where recreational marijuana is now legal have gone up by 6 percent. The increase has been seen in states such as Colorado, Nevada, Oregon and Washington where marijuana is legal for recreational use when compared to neighboring states where the drug is still illegal. However, everyone may not agree with these findings. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration claimed that marijuana use was not likely to contribute to traffic accidents in any significant way a few years ago in 2015 and has not appeared to change its position on the matter. It is important to note that marijuana is still an illegal controlled substance under federal law.

Drug DWIs In New Jersey

In New Jersey, DWI does not only apply to driving while intoxicated by alcohol. Rather, any substance that hinders a person’s ability to drive safely, even minimally, can lead to being charged with a DWI. A drug DWI, also referred to as driving under the influence of drugs (DUID), in New Jersey takes place when a person’s normal use of mental or physical faculties are weakened due to a drug or any combination of drugs. This includes any drugs, whether they are illegal, controlled substances and over-the counter medications. Common examples of drugs that give rise to a DUID charge include:

  • Marijuana;
  • Cocaine;
  • Opiates;
  • Xanax; and/or
  • Sleeping pills.

Defending Against a Drug DWI Charge

It is important to note that just because you have been arrested and charged with a drug DWI does not necessarily mean that you will be convicted. There may be a number of defenses that are applicable in your case. For example, under the protections provided by the 4th Amendment of the Constitution, a police offer must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over and probable cause to arrest you for a drug DWI. If you were pulled over or arrested unlawfully, you may be able to get your case dismissed.

In other cases, the DUID charge may be based on the fact that you failed a field sobriety test. However, there may be an explanation other than being under the influence of drugs why you failed the test. Some people have poor balance to begin with or may have failed the test due to uneven ground surfaces, vertigo, high heels or poor weather conditions. We will examine your case and figure out if any factors besides impairment could have affected your performance in the field sobriety test.

Skilled Drug DWI New Jersey Attorneys

If you are facing a DWI for driving under the influence of drugs, you need to reach out to a skilled New Jersey DWI attorney as soon as possible. Drug DWI cases are incredibly complex and you should choose a lawyer who has extensive experience in this area of law can make all the difference in your case. You can rest assured that we will work tirelessly to try and get your drugged driving charges reduced or completely dismissed. Call us today 877-450.8301 or contact us online

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