What is the general rule regarding driving under the influence of drugs?

Driving under the influence of drugs is illegal because it significantly impairs an individual's abilities to operate a vehicle safely. Drugs, whether they are illegal substances or prescription medications, can alter a person's cognitive functions, reaction times, and overall motor skills, leading to a higher risk of accidents and dangerous driving behavior.

The law takes into account that impairment can occur even with prescribed medications, as they can still affect one's ability to drive safely, hence simply being prescribed does not make it legal to drive under their influence if they compromise driving skills. Therefore, the emphasis is placed on the dangerous consequences of any drug impairment, highlighting that driving while under the influence poses a public safety risk.

Understanding this rule reinforces the importance of responsible decision-making regarding drug use and its impact on driving.