Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

Which driving condition can lead to DUI charges under the influence of substance?

1. Driving under the influence of alcohol only

2. Driving with any drug or alcohol with impaired capacity

3. Only driving at night

4. Driving without a seatbelt

The correct answer is: Driving with any drug or alcohol with impaired capacity

Driving with any drug or alcohol that impairs a person's capacity can lead to DUI charges, as it encompasses a broad range of substances that can affect a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. Under the law, impairment is not limited to just alcohol; it also includes illegal drugs, prescription medications, and over-the-counter drugs, all of which can negatively impact motor skills, judgment, and reaction times. The emphasis is on the impairment aspect because a person can be charged with a DUI even if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is below the legal limit if it is proven that their ability to drive safely is compromised due to any substance. This broader perspective on impairment underscores the seriousness of driving under the influence, regardless of the specific type of substance involved. The other choices do not capture the comprehensive nature of the law regarding driving under the influence. For instance, limiting the context to driving under the influence of alcohol only does not reflect the reality of how various substances can impair driving. Similarly, the notion that time of day (only driving at night) or the presence of a seatbelt could influence DUI charges is inaccurate, as these factors are not directly relevant to determining impairment.