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What is drug-impaired driving and why is it dangerous?

On Behalf of | Jul 28, 2024 | Drunk Driving Accidents

Many people automatically think about alcohol when they hear about impaired driving, but alcohol isn’t the only substance that can lead to impairment. It’s also possible that drugs, both legal and illegal, can cause impaired driving.

Anyone who’s driving must be able to focus on the road and react to what’s going on around them. An impaired driver has diminished ability to make decisions for their own safety and the safety of others. This increases the likelihood that the driver will be involved in a crash.

The growing concern of drug-impaired driving

While alcohol remains a primary concern, drug-impaired driving is rising. Many people think all over-the-counter medications are safe to take before they drive. The truth is that certain widely-available medications, such as allergy medications like diphenhydramine, can impair drivers to the point that they can’t drive safely.

Some prescription medications, including narcotics and opioids, can also lead to impairment. Medications that have this possibility usually have a warning for people taking the medicine not to operate heavy machinery. They may also include warnings about becoming dizzy or drowsy. Illegal drugs can also cause a driver to become too impaired to drive. These effects are enhanced if the driver opts to consume alcohol while they’re using the illegal drugs.

The consequences of impaired driving

Impaired driving can lead to significant issues. Innocent people may be struck by impaired drivers. Those victims can suffer a variety of injuries, including minor bruising or scratches. More serious injuries, such as broken bones or burns are also possible. Some people even suffer catastrophic injuries like damage to the spinal cord or brain. All of these injuries can lead to emotional, physical and financial damages for victims and their family members.

Victims of impaired driving crashes will likely need considerable medical care. In some cases, they may sustain life-long challenges that need ongoing treatment. This, coupled with the loss of income as they heal from their injuries, can have a negative impact on their financial situation. They may choose to seek compensation for those damages from the at-fault driver.

New Jersey law provides victims two years from the date of an injury to file a legal claim against the negligent party who caused them harm. These cases can be complex, so discussing them with a legal representative can make a great deal of difference.

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