Accidents involving alcohol are terrifyingly common. Each year, approximately 25,000 Americans are killed, and over 700,000 are injured in drug or alcohol-related car accidents. While alcohol-related accidents are typically the focal point, frightening newer statistics are arising about the effects of drugs and automobile accidents. In 2012, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health estimated that 10.3 million people aged 12 and older reported driving under the influence of illicit drugs during the previous year.
“Drugged driving,” or the use of any psychoactive (mind-altering) drugs, is not only unsafe but illegal in California. If an officer detects any outward sign of drug impairment, they can administer a blood or urine test to gain proof of driving under the influence of drugs. In 2009, one National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration study found that 18% of fatally injured drivers tested positive for at least one illicit, prescription, or over-the-counter drug.
While the effects of specific drugs differ, all impair the faculties needed to operate a vehicle safely. A common misconception is that it is relatively safe to operate a car and take prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Although many drugs contain a warning about operating machinery, this warning is often ignored. Many prescription drugs induce drowsiness or sleepiness and produce other adverse side effects that contribute to unsafe driving. Even marijuana usage can cause accidents. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a substance in marijuana that has been shown to affect areas of the brain that control reaction time, body movement, balance, coordination, memory, and judgment.
Drugged drivers not only put themselves and their passengers in danger; their negligence can affect those who share the road with them.
While a sober driver cannot control the actions of a driver under the influence of drugs, they can be aware of the warning signs. An impaired driver may exhibit one or more of the following:
- Driving unreasonably fast, slow, or inconsistently
- Driving at night without lights
- Ignoring traffic signals and signs
- Weaving in or out of their travel lane
- Changing lanes frequently
- Driving too close to curbs, shoulders, the edge of the road or straddling the center line
If you or your loved one has been involved in a drug-related automobile accident caused by another driver, please call our experienced auto accident attorneys in Sacramento at Eason and Tambornini, A Law Corporation. We will help you work with the insurance companies and all parties involved to get your deserved compensation.
