Drugged Driving

A recent study has highlighted a new danger on the road: drugged drivers. The study found that of drivers who died in a car accident, 43 percent of drivers tested positive for drugs and 37 percent of drivers had alcohol in their bodies. The study was released by the Governors Highway Safety Association.

Marijuana Is Commonly Found in Killed Drivers

Of the positive drug tests in this study, 35 percent signaled marijuana use by the driver. This does not come as a surprise since medical marijuana is legal in 29 states and the District of Columbia and recreational marijuana is legal in eight states and DC. However, it is illegal to drive impaired in all 50 states. More Policies and Resources Needed to Combat Drugged DrivingExperts argue that the results of the study highlight the need for more training for police officers on how to spot drugged driving as well as additional methodologies and standards for determining if a driver is too impaired to operate a vehicle. For example, there is no analogous drug test comparable to the breathalyzer.

Study’s Conclusions Are Questioned by Some

Some road safety experts warn that the study may provide an incomplete picture. The study was conducted in part by the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility, a nonprofit funded by alcohol distillers. In addition, the study admits that it did not test every driver who died behind the wheel, which limits the study’s persuasiveness. Also, there are a lot of unknowns when it comes to drugged driving prevention and testing. For example, the definition of impairment by drugs is not uniform. Detractors are worried that this study may take away from drunk driving awareness efforts, for which there is a well-studied need.

Contact a Lake County Car Accident Lawyer

If you have been in a car accident with someone you believe to be impaired by drugs or alcohol, you should not have to pay for your injuries and damages. While the person at fault may also be prosecuted on state charges, it is up to the accident victims to file a suit to recover for their losses.

Depending on the facts of your case, punitive damages may be available. Our firm has the resources and experience needed to handle your claim in a skillful and efficient fashion. Contact the knowledgeable Lake County auto crash attorney of Salvi & Maher, LLP at 847-662-3303 to get a free consultation on your case.

Source:

http://www.cnn.com/2017/04/27/health/drugged-driving-death-rates-report/index.html

http://www.ghsa.org/sites/default/files/2017-04/GHSA_DruggedDriving2017_FINAL.pdf