Could a Medical Condition Be Mistaken for DWI?
Imagine this: You’re driving, already struggling through a mental health crisis
Your heart’s racing, your thoughts are scattered, and maybe your hands are shaking
You need help but instead, you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror Minutes later, you're in handcuffs, accused of driving while intoxicated It happens more often than most people realize.
Medical Condition or Drunk?
Medical conditions can often mimic signs of intoxication.
Anxiety attacks, ADHD, and other medical or neurological conditions can cause slurred speech, confusion, unsteady movement, or even difficulty following instructions. To a police officer at the scene, these signs can easily be mistaken for intoxication.
Data That Confirms This
Unfortunately, officers are trained to spot impairment, but they aren’t medical experts. The numbers back it up. In 2023, a UCLA study analyzed 12,000 DUI cases and found that 4.1 % involved individuals with medical conditions that may have been misinterpreted as intoxication
That means thousands of people were potentially arrested not because of drugs or alcohol, but because of health challenges
We’ve seen firsthand, clients arrested for DWI when the real issue was something as common as ADHD or anxiety, which impacted their ability to perform field sobriety tests
Not every DWI is about alcohol or drugs But without experienced legal representation, your side of the story - and the medical facts behind it - may never come to light
The Right Attorney
If you’ve been accused of DWI and believe a medical condition played a role, the right attorney can make all the difference. Our team understands how these cases unfold, and we know how to advocate for you.
Abilene, TX DWI Attorney Jacob Blizzard specializes in defending drivers accused of DWI in Abilene, San Angelo and the surrounding areas. Facing a DWI charge as an adult or DUI charge underage can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
With a proven track record, Texas board-certified expertise in criminal law and criminal appeals, and a relentless commitment to protecting your rights, we’re here to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case et the skilled, compassionate representation you deserve