What is the difference between a drug DUI and an alcohol DUI?

In Virginia, there is a difference between a drug DUI and an alcohol DUI. A drug DUI occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs, including prescription and non-prescription drugs. In Virginia, it is against the law to drive a vehicle with a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher. This is known as an alcohol DUI. When it comes to punishments, drug DUIs may result in more severe punishments than alcohol DUIs. This is because, in addition to the offender being arrested and charged with a DUI, they may also face drug possession charges, depending on the type of drug they had in their system. Furthermore, when a person tests positive for certain types of drugs, such as cocaine and methamphetamine, they are charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor, the highest level of misdemeanor in Virginia. This offense carries a mandatory minimum of five days in jail, with a potential sentence of up to 12 months in prison and a maximum fine of $2,500. An alcohol DUI, on the other hand, carries lesser punishments such as a maximum fine of $250 and up to 5 days in jail. In summary, a drug DUI in Virginia involves operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine, which can result in more severe punishments than an alcohol DUI. An alcohol DUI occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle with a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher, and normally carries a smaller punishment such as a fine and up to 5 days in jail.

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