Drugged Driving on the Rise, NHTSA Says

A new warning for all people on our roadways – beware of drugged driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says there are now more drugged drivers than drunk drivers.

Drunk Driving Declines, While Drug Use Behind the Wheel Rises

While drug-impaired driving was on the rise, NHTSA said the number of drivers on the road with alcohol in their systems has declined by nearly one-third since 2007.

The agency’s survey, conducted in 2013 and 2014, found that the number of drivers with marijuana in their systems grew by nearly 50 percent since 2007, rising from 8.6 percent in 2007 to 12.6 percent in 2014.

The anonymous surveys gather data in dozens of locations across the country from drivers who agreed to participate.

Driving While Impaired

Keep in mind that many other drugs — whether they be legal or not, recreational or prescription – can affect cognition, judgment, reflexes, and motor skills.

Drugs and alcohol have similar effects on driving abilities. Drivers lose their general attention to the roadway and the ability to react quickly.

Even if the drug was prescribed by a licensed physician, it is still illegal to drive while you are affected by the drug. So, even when you use a medication that has been prescribed by a doctor, be sure that you review any possible side-effects and avoid operating a vehicle until the effects have passed.

If you or a family member has sustained an injury in an alcohol-related accident, you may be eligible to file a DUl accident lawsuit. Contact Oliver Law Firm today to discuss your legal options.

At Oliver Law Firm, we have the knowledge and experience to handle DUI accident cases. We are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured individuals. Our attorneys are available to assist injury victims in Bentonville, Mountain Home and the surrounding communities.

Call 479-202-5200 or use our case evaluation form to speak with a Viptera lawsuit attorney.