Drug-Impaired Driving Crashes
Jacksonville auto accident attorneys
In many cases, motorists who use caution and drive responsibly can prevent being injured in a car accident. However, in some cases, auto accidents are unavoidable. Unfortunately, drug-impaired driving, also called drugged driving, is on the rise in Florida, especially with the current opioid epidemic. The negligent actions of drugged drivers put all road users at risk of being severely or fatally injured.
In the event that you've been injured in an accident caused by a drug-impaired driver, you need an attorney who will fight for you every step of the way. The attorneys at Pajcic & Pajcic possess a wealth of knowledge of Florida's complex legal system and have the case result to prove it, including $5 million awarded to a crash victim who was struck by an impaired driver. Contact us today and find out how we can help you.
Why drug-impaired driving is so dangerous
Under Florida law (Fla. Stat. § 316.193), it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of a controlled substance, drug, or another harmful chemical to the extent that the person's normal faculties are impaired. However, it is not uncommon for some drivers to break the law by driving under the influence of drugs and putting other road users in danger.
What kinds of drugs can affect your driving ability? Common controlled substances in Florida include:
- Opioids
- Stimulants
- Hallucinogens,
- Prescription drugs
- Benzodiazepines, and
- Cannabinoids.
When a driver operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of illegal or prescription drugs, his or her judgment and reaction time become impaired. Drug-impaired driving can also result in falling asleep at the wheel or driving erratically.