Drug-impaired driving is something that affects a vast majority of our population. Understanding the dangers associated with driving under the influence of illegal or non-illegal substances is imperative to prevent any catastrophic incidents.
In 2020 alone, 56% of people involved in serious or fatal crashes, tested positive for at least one drug (NHTSA). This raises concern for the unknowingly large epidemic of drug usage when operating a vehicle.
Prescribed Medications
Most people don’t realize they can be under the influence of prescription medications when driving. This can happen due to factors such as built-up tolerance and misunderstanding dosages. Some people may mistake certain changes in behavior or mood to be from lack of sleep; instead, they are experiencing side effects from their prescribed medication.
It is important to understand any underlying side effects consistent with your prescribed medication. The first step you should always take when receiving new medication is to consult with your doctor and/or pharmacist so that you can fully understand how the medication works.
Side effects for commonly prescribed medication may include, but are not limited to:
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- drowsiness
- blurred vision
- impaired coordination
- cognitive functioning.
Medications that commonly cause side effects include:
- opioids
- antidepressants
- antihistamines
- antihypertensives/blood pressure medications
- muscle relaxants
- benzodiazepines
In a conducted study, 10% of drivers tested positive for prescription and/or over-the-counter medications (NHTSA). Before operating a vehicle, determine whether or not it’s safe by reading the side effects list on your prescription/medication, many will state to avoid operating heavy machinery. Know that there are alternatives to driving yourself, many people benefit from using a rideshare service such as Uber, Lyft, or SafeRide America.
It is important to note, that combining medications may also put you at risk. Many medications are not made to be combined with others. It is also better to refrain from drinking any alcoholic beverages while taking prescribed medications. If you are feeling you are experiencing any of the listed side effects while using a prescribed medication, it is recommended that you refrain from driving until these side effects subside.
Illegal Substances
In 2016, 43.6% of fatally injured drivers tested positive for two or more drugs (NIH).
Drug-impaired driving can have many negative consequences. As well as putting yourself and others in danger, you may also be held liable in the event of an accident and face legal charges and financial repercussions. There are approximately 1 million arrests tied to alcohol and/or drugs, in the United States every year (CDC).
- Illegal substances affect your ability to make wise decisions when it comes to operating a vehicle. Some people may experience an inability to respond to common hazards such as traffic signals and emergency braking.
- Illegal hallucinogens such as LSD, marijuana, and psilocybin mushrooms alter your perception and can distort visuals. This makes driving difficult when it comes to staying in lines and judging distances between you and other vehicles.
- Substances including marijuana and certain stimulants can cause paranoia. This may result in reckless and/or aggressive driving.
- Falling asleep behind the wheel is common when using sedatives. Drugs that control the nervous system may cause you to nod off more easily and slow your reactions.
- Many states constitute drug-impaired driving to be a criminal offense when illegal substances are involved. This would put you at risk for criminal charges, fines, and penalties. Some people face jail time and have their driving privileges suspended.
Illegal substances are a frequent cause of a majority of fatal and non-fatal car accidents. Stay alert for any suspicious behaviors on the road. This will keep you and your loved ones safe.
Less Common Situations
Sometimes there are instances you may not even know you are under the influence of a drug. It is important to be aware of your surroundings, especially during any social gathering. Many common date rape drugs, such as Rohypnol, can cause adverse side effects that can severely impair driving abilities and basic function.
Here are some steps you can take to help prevent you from being a victim of a date rape drug:
- Keep an eye on all beverages. Date rape drugs are snuck into drinks when people are not aware.
- Don’t accept any drinks from strangers. This is a pretty common rule of thumb, but it is important to remember.
- If you can, keep your drink covered or have a lid screwed on tight throughout the night.
- If your drink appears cloudy, has a strange smell, or appears different than normal, alert a bartender or security guard.
These are just a few things to be on the lookout for while you are in any social situation. There are many ways that you can be unknowingly drugged, and it is important that if you suspect you or someone you know may have been, to alert the authorities as soon as possible.
How to help others
There are many ways to prevent drug-impaired driving. Recognizing certain behaviors is important when you are on the road. This will help keep you and your loved ones safe and help prevent any unnecessary accidents or collisions.
Here are some behaviors to be on the lookout for:
- Sudden acceleration
- Breaking, tailgating
- Speed fluctuations
- Poor control of vehicles
If you suspect that someone on the road is under the influence, you should maintain a safe distance. Contact 911 immediately and provide a clear description of the vehicle in question, such as location and license plate information.
JONES & SWANSON ENCOURAGES YOU TO BE SAFE FROM DRUG-IMPAIRED DRIVING
Drug Impaired Driving puts you and others at risk. Be sure that you are aware of your surroundings and make responsible choices to keep you and your loved ones safe. Utilize taxi services when needed and be on the lookout for any suspicious or reckless driving. Always be aware of the consequences when it comes to drug-impaired driving.
For substance abuse treatment and mental health referrals, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
jones & Swanson Is A Georgia-based Personal Injury Attorney. IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW ARE A VICTIM OF A CAR ACCIDENT DUE TO SOMEONE DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE, call Jones & Swanson For A Free Consultation or Contact Us On Awjlaw.com. We have Decades Of Combined Experience Representing Individuals In Automobile Recall Cases And Are More Than Happy To Answer Any Questions You May Have.
Categories: Auto Accidents, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injuries, Defensive Driving, Distracted Driving, Drowsy Driving, Health & Wellness, Personal Injury, Safety Tips
