NJ Sleep Driving Defense Lawyers
While most attorneys might not be confronted with an Ambien, Lunesta or other form of sleeping pill DWI at any time of their career, we are probably the largest driving while intoxicated firm in the state and encounter this scenario all the time. Not surprisingly, our attorneys are well aware of the fact that “sleep driving” is a bona fide side effect of sleeping aid drugs and that there are real issues confronting police and prosecutors who want to convict someone on this charge. In point of fact, the Food & Drug Administration (“FDA”) has identified “sleep driving” as a potential side effect of Ambien and other prescription sleep aids like Lunesta (i.e. “driving while not fully awake after ingestion of a sedative-hypnotic product, with no memory of the event”). And to reduce the risk of this side effect occurring, the FDA cut Ambien dosages in half in early 2013. What should be abundant for this information is that there are legitimate grounds for challenging a sleeping pill DWI and our lawyers know what they are. If you were charged with driving while intoxicated because you were under the influence of Ambien or another sleep aid, even Lunesta, give us a call. An attorney is available to assist you 24/7 and initial consultations are always without expense.
Penalties for Ambien, Lunesta or Other Sleeping Aid DWI
The following are the penalties that someone faces if they are convicted of a first offense, second offense or third offense driving under the influence of a pharmaceutical sleeping aid:
- First Offense. License suspension of between 7 and 12 months, fines and assessments of $600-$800, state motor vehicle surcharge of $1,000 a year for three years, and jail of up to 30 days.
- Second Offense. 2 year license suspension, fines and assessments of approximately $1,000, the same state surcharge as a first offense, and 2 to 90 days in jail.
- Third or Subsequent Offense. 10 years license suspension, fines and assessments in excess of $1,000, a state surcharge of $1,500 a year for 3 years, and 180 days in jail.
If you are facing a DWI in NJ and it is based on intoxication from Ambien, Lunesta or another sleeping aid, our firm is ready to defend you. Give us a call at 855-450-8310.
