Is Drugged Driving More of a Problem Than Drunk Driving?
In the United States, the legalization of marijuana is becoming widespread. This leads to the question of whether people will use it for medical reasons or recreationally and then drive. Although the number of drunk driving collisions has decreased over the last 10 years, the number of drugged driving accidents is increasing, according to a study conducted by the American Automobile Association (AAA).
Why is Drugged Driving Dangerous?
Illegal and legal drugs impact a motorist’s driving abilities. Reflexes are slowed, judgement of time and distance is impaired, and a driver is much more likely to make an error that causes a car accident. Drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine can cause a driver to be more aggressive and reckless. The problem is quantifying how much a drug affects an individual. Research on the subject is relatively new compared to alcohol. There is no good roadside test for drug levels in the body, and some drugs remain in the body for days or weeks after use.
Why are Drugged Driving Collisions Increasing?
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are concerned about the rise of drugged driving because many adults who use marijuana and other drugs are combining them with alcohol and then driving. In the event of a crash, this makes it hard to determine which substance contributed to the accident. The researchers recommend focusing attention on drugged driving along with efforts to reduce drunk driving. The increasing availability of drugs in many states makes this imperative.
Although fewer people are driving during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the University of Cincinnati study found that there are more reports of drugged driving in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly one in five individuals say they have used marijuana while driving a vehicle. Marijuana along with opioids are the most common drugs used while driving.
Educating the Public About Drugged Driving
A problem identified by the research team at the University of Cincinnati is that some cultures and communities view marijuana as relatively harmless. Certain demographic groups were more likely to drive under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Strategies for education about the dangers of drugged driving must be tailored toward the audience that needs to hear the message.
If someone is injured by a drunk or drugged driver, they may have legal recourse. A car accident victim should speak to a lawyer to determine the next best step.
Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Help Injured Victims After Drunk and Drugged Driving Collisions
Drugged driving is increasing in the United States as marijuana becomes legalized. If you were injured in a car accident that was caused by the negligence of another person, a Washington, D.C. car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King can help you. Call us at 202-331-1963 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., we serve clients throughout Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.