The state of Georgia has had a growing problem with the abuse of prescription drugs. Local police along with the US District attorney and local DEA agents are in a day long summit to figure out how to solve the growing abuse of prescription drugs. Joseph Rannazzisi who supervises the DEA’s prescription drug investigations stated that prescription drugs have replaced marijuana as a gateway drug for teens. More people died of prescription drug overdoses in 2009 than of illegal drug overdoses in the state of Georgia.
In addition to the increasing problem of prescription drug abuse, the number of people who drive under the influence of legal drugs is becoming an equally serious issue. According to the Highway Traffic Safety Administration over 10 million teens and adults report they have driven under the influence of prescriptions drugs. Although most DUIs are given to people who drive while drunk and need the help of a DUI attorney, many others are under the influence of drugs. At least 10 percent of those who get DUI charges are on painkillers.
A DUI charge has tough penalties and can only be minimized with the retention of a DUI lawyer. Drunk or drugged driving is a serious problem on our streets and highways and is the leading cause of traffic fatalities which is the reason the courts are so tough on people who drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The experience of a DUI attorney will be an asset when in court.
