Each time you get on the road, you’re putting your trust in the other drivers. It takes every driver on the road to ensure that everyone remains as safe as possible. Unfortunately, not everyone takes their duties seriously. Some will get behind the wheel even when they’re impaired. This can put other drivers in danger of suffering a catastrophic injury.
How do drugs affect the ability to drive?
Different drugs impact a driver in different ways. This is true whether it’s an illegal drug, a prescription medication or an over-the-counter medicine.
- Over-the-counter medicines: Some, such as allergy medications, may cause drowsiness and dizziness.
- Opioids: These cause impaired memory, problems with thinking and drowsiness.
- Marijuana: This leads to slowed reaction time and impaired judgment about things like distance and time.
- Sedatives: They can result in the person becoming drowsy or dizzy.
- Cocaine and methamphetamine: These are associated with reckless behavior and aggression.
It’s possible that other impacts might occur when a driver is on drugs. These might become more complex when the person is using more than one drug or adding alcohol in. Determining whether a driver is impaired or not when a wreck occurs is a priority.
Anyone who is struck by an impaired driver should ensure they get the medical care they need for their injuries. They may also opt to pursue a claim for compensation to help repay them for the damages they’re suffering because of the injury. This may include things like their missed wages, medical care and similar expenses. Others might also be possible, so discuss the matter with your attorney.
