
A multitude of things can cause car accidents. However, impaired driving is one of the leading causes of fatal car accidents. No matter what the circumstances are, a motorist cannot operate a vehicle safely if they are impaired by illegal substances such as drugs or alcohol. Motorists are legally required to abide by the rules of the road, meaning they must refrain from operating a vehicle while they are impaired by drugs and alcohol. A motorist’s ability to safely operate a vehicle is hindered by these stimulants and depressants. If you have been injured in a car accident, contact a skilled Port St. Lucie Car Accident Lawyer who can help you seek monetary compensation for your damages. In addition, please continue reading to learn about the role drugs play in causing devastating car accidents.
How often is drug use a factor in car accidents?
Unfortunately, drugs play a huge role in causing serious car accidents. According to statistics, more than 55% of people involved in a serious or fatal road accident tested positive for drugs or alcohol. Driving while impaired by drugs is extremely dangerous as it hinders motorists’ judgment and reaction time. Motorists need to be able to take in their surroundings to adapt to changing road conditions. In addition, driving while under the influence of drugs causes a motorist to have slower coordination. If a motorist’s critical driving capabilities are diminished, serious accidents and injuries will occur as a result. Ultimately, several different types of drugs can impair a motorist’s critical driving skills needed to properly operate a vehicle. Drugs such as marijuana, opioids, cocaine, and methamphetamines can cause drivers to have an increased sense of confidence on the road which makes them drive more aggressively and recklessly. Overall, driving while impaired by drugs can result in significant accidents and injuries.
Furthermore, it is pertinent to note that car accidents often occur as a result of motorists driving while impaired by legally prescribed drugs. Serious car accidents may occur if a motorist does not take the right dosage of their medications. Some prescription medications have side effects that hinder a motorist’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. Motorists must read the warning labels on their medications before getting behind the wheel. Some warning labels will indicate that an individual should not operate heavy machinery, such as a car while they’re taking this medication. Ultimately, motorists should never operate a vehicle while they are impaired by drugs as it puts everyone on the road’s lives in danger as well as causes serious collisions.
In the unfortunate event that you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our determined and adept team members. Our firm is committed to helping our clients achieve a favorable outcome. Allow our firm to help you seek the justice you deserve.