Drugged Driving Accidents are on the Rise
Studies have shown that drunk driving accidents are on the decline. Researchers have stated that increasing awareness about the dangers of drunk driving has caused a decrease in drunk driving accidents. However, drugged driving accidents are actually increasing. A study done by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showed that 20 percent of people who got into an accident in 2017 tested positive for drugs. If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident with a drugged driver, it is imperative that you contact a car accident attorney immediately.
The NHTSA also found that the number of people who drove while under the influence of marijuana has increased by 50 percent. Even though many people believe that marijuana is a harmless drug, it is actually more dangerous than drinking and driving because it may slow down a person’s reaction time.
Why Drugged Driving Accident Cases can be Complicated
There are Several Drugs That can Interfere With Driving
There are hundreds of drugs that can affect your ability to drive. Some of them are illegal while others are prescription drugs. Many people consume a combination of drugs before they drive. They may also use the drugs along with alcohol. An experienced car accident attorney can assist you in holding impaired drivers accountable for the damage they may have caused. These are complex cases and dealing with insurance companies can be time consuming and frustrating, having a car accident attorney representing you will help in this process.
It can be Difficult to Identify Drugged Driving
It is easy for an officer to identify drunk driving. All they have to do is have the person undergo a breathalyzer test. However, there is no breathalyzer test that can detect whether a person is on drugs. If the officer suspects that a person is using drugs, then they will have to arrest the person. They will then have to take the person to the hospital in order for the person to get a blood or urine test.
There are many drugs that are processed quickly by the body. That is why it is possible for a person to have a negative drug test despite the fact that they have been using drugs.
Public Perception About Drugged Driving Can Vary
Juries often struggle to find a person guilty of drugged driving. This is especially true if a person was using marijuana. Public attitudes towards marijuana use have shifted a lot. A jury may defend a person’s decision to use marijuana while driving. That is why it is important to hire a car accident attorney.
It is Possible to Avoid Drugged Driving While Using Prescription Drugs
Many people believe that painkillers are the only drugs that can cause drugged driving. However, there are many over-the-counter drugs that can impair driving. Cold medications and antihistamines often have this side effect.
It is important for you to read the drug labels if you are taking any type of medication. You should also ask your pharmacist or doctor about the side effects.
Why You Should Call an Attorney
Your personal safety should be the main thing that you are concerned about after an accident. If you were hit by a drugged driver, then you will need to contact a police officer immediately. The authorities will question the person and determine if they need to be tested for drugs.
It is also a good idea to contact a car accident attorney. It can be difficult to have a person convicted of drug driving if you do not have an attorney. A good attorney will not only get you compensated, but they will also push for the person to have to pay punitive damages. Punitive damages are damages that are awarded just to punish the defendant.
An attorney will use a variety of techniques to investigate your case. They will also help you present the evidence to support your claim. You can contact us at one of the following numbers.
Arlington (817) 522-4451
Dallas (972) 362-6848
Fort Worth (817) 764-1375
Plano (972) 354-4602
Cedar Hill (972) 338-9427
McKinney (469) 522-3688
Lewisville (972) 354-4605
Frisco (972) 725-7681
Grapevine (817) 835-8677
Irving (972) 354-4610
Keller (817) 204-0904
Garland (214) 572-2251
Denton (940) 222-4060
Addison (972) 564-8108
You can also contact us online by using our quick contact form.
