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What are the Penalties of Drugged Driving in New Jersey?

Posted on by Andrew Maze

Just as it is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol, it is illegal to drive under the influence of drugs. This includes any and all narcotics, hallucinogens, or habit-producing drugs. If a driver chooses to violate the law and drive under the influence anyway, they can face serious charges that come with life-impacting consequences. Continue reading below to learn more, continue reading below and contact an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney.

What is Implied Consent?

The state of New Jersey imposes what is known as the law of implied consent. This means that drivers who are suspected to be under the influence of alcohol consent to providing a chemical test just by driving. This can include a breath, blood, or urine test to determine their level of intoxication. However, the law does not require individuals suspected of drugged driving to take a chemical test. Any chemical samples from these stops must be voluntary and penalties cannot be imposed if the driver refuses to take a test.

What are the Penalties of Drugged Driving?

Drivers who violate the law by operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs can face the following penalties depending on the offense:

  • First offense: A fine between $300 and $500, a period of detainment for 12-48 hours during two consecutive days of no less than six hours each day, a term of imprisonment for no more than 30 days, and the forfeiture of their rights to operate a vehicle on highways in New Jersey for seven months to one year.
  • Second offense: A fine between $500 and $1000, community service for a period of 30 days, imprisonment between 48 hours and 90 days, and the forfeiture of their rights to operate a motor vehicle on highways in New Jersey for two years.
  • Third or subsequent offense: A fine of $1000, imprisonment for a minimum of 180 days in county jail or a workhouse and maximum of 90 days, participation in a drug/alcohol inpatient rehab program approved by the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center, the forfeiture of their rights to operate a vehicle on the highways in New Jersey for 10 years, and the installation of an ignition interlock device.

Contact our Firm

Our firm understands how serious criminal and personal injury cases are. We are prepared to guide you towards a favorable outcome because we believe false accusations or preventable injuries should never cause a person harm. This is why those who require experienced legal counsel in New Jersey should do themselves a favor and contact The Law Office of Andrew S. Maze today for any criminal and personal injury matters.

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FAQ

If you’ve been in a car accident, seek medical help first, then contact an Auto Accident Attorney in Edison Township. The Law Office of Andrew S. Maze can help document evidence, communicate with insurers, and pursue compensation for injuries and damages.

An Injury Lawyer in Middlesex County, NJ helps you file claims, negotiate settlements, and represent your case in court. The firm ensures your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

We handle personal injury, auto accidents, truck accidents, DUI/DWI defense, slip and fall, and workplace injury cases throughout Middlesex County and Edison Township, NJ.

In New Jersey, DUI (driving under the influence) and DWI (driving while intoxicated) are treated similarly. A DUI Defense Attorney in Middlesex County, NJ builds your defense, challenges test results, and seeks reduced penalties or dismissal when possible.

Most Car Wreck Attorneys in Middlesex County, NJ, including Andrew Maze, work on a contingency basis, you pay no upfront fees. The firm only collects a fee if they win or settle your case successfully.

Settlement times vary based on the case’s complexity and insurance negotiations. Most auto accident injury cases in Edison Township settle within a few months, though serious claims may take longer if litigation is needed.

Bring accident reports, medical records, photographs, witness contact details, and any insurance correspondence. This helps your Accident Lawyer in Middlesex County, NJ assess your case quickly and accurately.

Yes, under New Jersey’s comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages if you were less than 50% at fault. A skilled Car Accident Lawyer in Edison Township can help determine liability and maximize your compensation.

Not always. Many personal injury claims handled by our Auto Accident Lawyers in Edison Township are settled out of court through negotiations. Court proceedings occur only if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Simply call or submit a free consultation request online. Our Injury Lawyers will review your case, explain your options, and guide you through the legal process step by step.