Car Accident Lawyers in New York Explain the Dangers of Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
Schwartzapfel Partners know driving under the influence of drugs can be just as deadly as alcohol related car accidents
In the recent past, we have been inundated with information on drinking and driving, and with good reason. Driving under the influence of alcohol claims thousands of lives every year. However, it is important to be aware that alcohol is not the only dangerous substance out there. Driving while under the influence of drugs, whether legal or illegal, can seriously impair your driving as well.
The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) released their first study on the subject in November 2010, with alarming results. In their five-year study, they found that 18% of the 21,798 killed in vehicle accidents tested positive for drugs. New York came in slightly lower than the national average, reporting that 15% tested positive for drugs in 2009.
What is even more concerning is this trend is picking up momentum. In 2005, 13% of drivers involved in fatal motor vehicle accidents tested positive for drugs. This jumped to 15% in 2006, to 16% in 2007, and 18% in 2008.
It is important to be aware that all drugs, whether illegal, prescribed by a doctor, or over the counter, have the ability to impair reaction time, motor skills and judgment. Drugged driving puts not only you at risk, but also those you share the road with.
