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You Can Get a DUI in Florida Without Drinking

You Can Get a DUI in Florida Without Drinking: What Drivers Need to Know

When people hear "DUI" they usually think of alcohol and drunk driving. But here’s the truth: you can be charged with a Florida DUI even if you haven’t been drinking. Florida law covers driving under the influence of drugs, prescription medications, and over-the-counter substances that impair your ability to drive.

Yes, you can face DUI charges without ever taking a sip of alcohol.

What Counts as a DUI in Florida?

Under Florida Statute 316.193, driving under the influence happens when:

  • You are driving or in actual physical control of a vehicle in Florida, and
  • You are under the influence of alcohol, chemical substances, or controlled substances to the point that your normal faculties are impaired.

What Does "Impairment" Mean in a DUI?

In Florida, impairment in a DUI doesn’t just mean being drunk. It can include:

  • Slowed reaction time
  • Blurred vision
  • Drowsiness
  • Confusion
  • Poor coordination

Many substances—legal or illegal—can cause these symptoms.

Can Prescription Medications Lead to a DUI in Florida?

Yes. Driving under the influence of prescription drugs in Florida is a DUI offense—even if you took the medication exactly as prescribed.

Common prescription drugs that can lead to DUI charges:

  • Painkillers (like oxycodone or hydrocodone)
  • Anxiety medications (like Xanax or Valium)
  • Sleep aids (like Ambien)

Even with a valid prescription, you can still be arrested if the medication affects your driving.

Over-the-Counter Medications and DUI in Florida

You can also get a DUI for over-the-counter drugs in Florida. Many people don’t realize that medications like:

  • Cold and flu medicine
  • Allergy pills (antihistamines)
  • Sleep aids (like melatonin)

can impair your driving and lead to a DUI arrest.

DUI for Illegal Drugs in Florida

This one might be obvious for some but yes, driving under the influence of marijuana, cocaine, or other illegal drugs is illegal under Florida DUI laws.

Florida DUI Penalties

A DUI conviction in Florida can result in:

  • Driver’s license suspension
  • Jail time
  • Expensive fines
  • Mandatory DUI school
  • Increased insurance premiums

DUI charges can also create long-term problems with employment and background checks.

What to Do If You’re Pulled Over for DUI in Florida

If you’re stopped by law enforcement:

  • Stay calm.
  • Do not admit to taking any substances.
  • Ask for a DUI defense attorney immediately.

Even if you are arrested, a skilled Florida DUI lawyer can help challenge the case and protect your rights.

Follow @borelllawoffices on Instagram for more DUI defense tips.

📞 Free Consultation: 1-888-503-5555

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