Posted on Monday, February 25th, 2019 at 6:37 am
Drugged driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving. If a driver is using prescription or illegal drugs, the driver’s reaction times and judgment may be impaired. Even over-the-counter medications can have side-effects that might impair a person’s ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
Being able to spot a drugged driver might help you avoid a car accident. However, you may not have time to notice driving behaviors that would indicate a person is impaired by drugs. Therefore, it might help to recognize some of the signs that a person is abusing drugs so that you can point this out to the police officer at the accident scene.
Signs That a Person May be Under the Influence of Drugs at an Accident Scene
According to the Mayo Clinic, five signs that a driver might be impaired by drugs include:
Lack of Coordination and Slurred Speech
In addition to being signs that someone may have been consuming alcohol, poor coordination and slurred speech may also indicate drug use. Many drugs may have this effect, especially painkillers and anti-anxiety medications when taken excessively. Overuse of drugs can severely impair motor function thereby causing a drugged driving accident.
Paranoia and Agitation
Many people are upset after a traffic accident. However, if someone is overly agitated or paranoid, it could be an indication that the person is abusing a prescription stimulant. The drugs may not impair everyone’s ability to drive. However, if someone is agitated or paranoid, they may make mistakes behind the wheel.
Drowsiness
Many drugs have drowsiness as a side effect. If a driver does not appear alert or able to stay awake, you may want to mention this to the police officer. The drowsiness could indicate the person took certain drugs before driving.
Hostility or Violence
Sometimes drugs that cause nervousness or paranoia can cause a person to become violent or hostile. Individuals may feel hostility after a crash, but some may be overly hostile or violent. Do not confront someone like this because drugs could be involved.
Lack of Concentration
A lack of focus or concentration can also be a side effect of using drugs, especially overusing anti-anxiety medications or painkillers. These drugs can significantly impair brain function if abused and cause a drugged driving accident.
Drugged Driving is Illegal in California
Drugged driving or driving while impaired by drugs is illegal. This includes over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, and illegal substances. Based on a driver’s actions, if you believe the driver might be using drugs, do not confront the driver. Individuals using drugs can be very unpredictable. It is best to keep your distance, remain calm, and notify the officer of your suspicions. The officer will take care of the matter.
Filing a Car Accident Claim with the Help of a Sacramento Car Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in a car wreck, our legal team can help you file a claim with the driver’s insurance company. We can investigate the car crash to determine the cause and gather evidence to prove liability.
Contact The Tiemann Law Firm by calling (916) 999-9000 or by visiting our website to schedule your free consultation with a Sacramento car accident lawyer.
