What Are the Consequences of Driving High in St. Louis?

Driving under the influence of drugs, including marijuana, is a serious offense in St. Louis. While alcohol-related offenses often dominate public discussion, drug-impaired driving can carry equally severe legal, financial, and personal consequences. Missouri law clearly prohibits driving high, and authorities across the state have stepped up enforcement in response to rising incidents. Understanding the penalties and long-term implications is essential for anyone facing such charges or seeking to stay informed about local traffic laws.

Legal Definition of Driving High in Missouri

Driving high refers to operating a motor vehicle while impaired by any substance, including marijuana, prescription medications, or illicit drugs. Missouri’s statutes prohibit driving while under the influence of any drug that affects a person’s ability to safely control a vehicle. Unlike alcohol impairment, which is measured by blood alcohol concentration (BAC), drug impairment often relies on officer observation, field sobriety tests, and toxicology reports. Missouri Revised Statutes Section 577.010 outlines the offense of driving while intoxicated, which includes being under the influence of drugs other than alcohol.

Even with the legalization of medical marijuana in Missouri, it remains illegal to drive high. The law makes no distinction between legal or illegal substances if impairment is present. A driver does not have to be visibly intoxicated—trace amounts of THC in the bloodstream may be enough for charges to be filed, depending on the circumstances.

Criminal Penalties for Driving High in St. Louis

The penalties for driving high in St. Louis can vary based on whether the offense is a first-time or repeat violation. A first offense for driving high is generally classified as a Class B misdemeanor. Conviction can lead to up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and license suspension for 30 to 90 days. In some cases, individuals may be eligible for a restricted driving privilege during the suspension period.

For repeat offenders or those involved in accidents while driving high, penalties become more severe. A second offense is generally a Class A misdemeanor, which may include up to one year in jail, increased fines, and longer license suspension. A third offense is considered a felony and can carry several years in prison, permanent license revocation, and higher fines. If the offense results in injury or death, vehicular assault or manslaughter charges may also apply.

Impact on Driving Privileges and License Suspension

Driving high may result in automatic suspension or revocation of a driver’s license. Administrative license actions are managed independently by the Missouri Department of Revenue, separate from criminal court proceedings. Even if charges are reduced or dismissed, the department may still impose sanctions if evidence of impairment exists.

After a conviction, drivers are usually required to complete a Substance Awareness Traffic Offender Program (SATOP) before reinstating their license. Additional requirements may include installing an ignition interlock device, undergoing drug testing, or complying with probation terms. For those with multiple offenses, license reinstatement may be denied for several years, significantly affecting mobility and employment.

Insurance Consequences and Financial Impact

A significant long-term consequence of driving high is the financial strain it imposes.  Auto insurance premiums typically increase dramatically after a drugged driving conviction. Insurers may classify the driver as high-risk, leading to loss of coverage or refusal to renew the policy. Even if coverage continues, the cost may become unaffordable for many drivers.

In addition to fines imposed by the court, there are often other costs such as attorney’s fees, court fees, mandatory program fees, and vehicle impoundment charges. These financial consequences can total thousands of dollars, particularly for repeat offenders or those involved in accidents. The combined impact of legal fees, lost income due to court dates, and increased insurance costs can have lasting financial repercussions.

Employment and Background Check Implications

Many people ask, will DWI show on background check? A conviction for driving high is treated similarly to a DWI, and it can appear on both your criminal and driving records—records that are often accessed during background checks. Many employers conduct pre-employment screenings, and a drugged driving conviction may disqualify candidates from jobs that involve driving, security clearance, or safety-sensitive responsibilities.

For individuals holding professional licenses—such as commercial drivers, healthcare workers, or teachers—driving high can result in disciplinary action, suspension, or revocation of the license. Employment prospects in transportation, government, or military sectors may also be limited following a conviction. Even a single offense can create long-term career obstacles.

Court-Ordered Rehabilitation and Probation

In many cases, the court may require individuals convicted of driving high to attend drug education classes, counseling, or participate in a rehabilitation program. These requirements are often part of a probation agreement, which may last for several months or even years. Failure to complete these conditions can result in additional penalties, including jail time or extended probation.

Probation may include random drug testing, reporting to a probation officer, and refraining from the use of controlled substances. The goal of these programs is to address the underlying substance use issues and prevent future offenses. Successful completion of court-ordered rehabilitation can sometimes reduce the severity of penalties or lead to alternative sentencing options.

Importance of Legal Representation in Driving High Cases

Facing a charge for driving high in St. Louis is not a matter to take lightly. The complexity of drugged driving cases often requires experienced legal guidance to challenge the validity of evidence, ensure proper procedures were followed, and explore potential defense strategies. Legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case, particularly when it comes to reducing penalties, avoiding jail time, or protecting driving privileges.

Each case is unique, and Missouri law allows for a range of possible outcomes depending on the facts presented. Individuals charged with driving high should act quickly to understand their rights and responsibilities under the law.

For those in need of legal guidance regarding drugged driving charges, Rose Legal Services provides dedicated support and case-specific legal solutions for clients in St. Louis.