The increasing frequency of marijuana legalization and decriminalization has brought the concern about potential drug-induced car at accidents in Rhode Island into the limelight. Based on what is currently been observed from the available statistics, driving while impaired by alcohol use has consistently been shown to pose more of a threat to public safety than high driving and stoned driving. High driving is a very serious issue across Rhode Island and Providence Plantations and across the United States. If injured by an intoxicated, drunk or stoned / high driver then contact Rhode Island personal injury lawyer, David Slepkow
More Americans are driving after smoking marijuana
In the data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s 2013-2014 survey, it was shown that the number of drivers found to have marijuana in their systems had ballooned by 50% since the year 2007. The growth in the number of marijuana-affected drivers between 2013 and 2007 had gone from 8.6% to 12.6% between 2007 and 2014. In the survey, it found that 22% of drivers had been found to have taken a form of drug known for being a threat to the safety of users, including both over-the-counter drugs, prescription drugs, and illicit drugs.
Men are more likely to drive while on stoned or high on drugs
In 2014, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported that 10 million people aged 12 or older driven while under the form of illicit drug in the past year. The survey’s findings also illustrated that men were far more likely than women to drive while under the influence of any mind-altering substance, with the bulk of impaired drivers being between the ages of 18 and 25.
American and Australian national drug survey reports have shown similar percentages for drivers on drugs
The findings of the 2007 National Drug Strategy Household Survey showed that 2.9% of Australians of 14 years of age or older had reported to have operated a motor vehicle while under the influence of illicit drugs in the year prior to the survey, but this was a reduction from the 2004 and 2001 percentages of 3.9% and 3.3% respectively. These Australian population percentages were close to the results of United States substance abuse surveys, in which it was shown that 4.4% and 4.3% of the American population reported to have driven while under the effects of illicit drugs in 2004 and 2005 respectively.
Drunk drivers pose a greater risk to themselves and others than those who drive after smoking marijuana
In a 2007 study published in the Canadian Journal of Public Health, it was found that drivers with a blood alcohol level of 0.05% were three times more likely to have engaged in reckless driving prior to a vehicular accident compared to those who did not drink but did use marijuana. “A man involved in the car crash death of a Massachusetts State Police trooper pleaded not guilty to various charges Wednesday afternoon… Thirty-year-old David Njuguna of Webster was previously charged with negligent driving and cited with failing to stay within marked lanes and speeding. He faced a judge on new charges, including manslaughter, around 4 p.m.Source: In court, prosecutors said Njuguna was suspected of using marijuana before driving that day – he had picked up four joints from a medical marijuana clinic an hour before the crash. He absolutely denies that he was under the influence of any drugs,” said defense attorney Peter Ettenberg.” Police: Driver Was High Before Crash That Killed Massachusetts State Trooper If you were injured in a Rhode Island car accident by a stoned or drug induced motorist, contact Rhode Island personal injury attorney David Slepkow. A RI personal injury lawyer will help you get the compensation you deserve.
Accidents caused by motorists who are under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol are unfortunately all too common and can have serious consequences. Such accidents are often referred to as DUI (Driving Under the Influence) accidents. When a motorist is impaired by drugs and/or alcohol, their ability to operate a vehicle safely is severely compromised, leading to an increased risk of accidents.
Here are some key points to consider regarding accidents caused by motorists who are high or drug-induced:
- Impaired Judgment and Coordination: Drugs and alcohol impair a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time. This can lead to poor decision-making on the road, difficulty maintaining proper lane position, and a slower response to unexpected situations.
- Increased Risk of Accidents: Impaired drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents, including head-on collisions, rear-end collisions, and accidents at intersections.
- Legal Consequences: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal in most countries. If caught, the driver may face criminal charges, fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment.
- Civil Liability: Impaired drivers can be held liable for the damages they cause in accidents. Victims of such accidents can seek compensation for medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering through civil lawsuits.
- Injury and Fatality: DUI accidents often result in serious injuries or fatalities. Victims may suffer from broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or even loss of life.
- Prevention: Preventing DUI accidents involves both law enforcement and public awareness campaigns. Stricter penalties for DUI, sobriety checkpoints, and educational programs can help deter impaired driving.
- Personal Responsibility: It’s essential for individuals to take personal responsibility and avoid driving while impaired. There are many alternatives, such as designated drivers, public transportation, taxis, or ridesharing services, to ensure a safe trip.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, it’s important to seek help. Addiction treatment and counseling are available to address the underlying issues and promote a healthier, drug-free lifestyle.
In summary, accidents caused by motorists who are high or drug-induced are a serious concern with potentially devastating consequences. Efforts to prevent and address impaired driving are crucial to reducing the incidence of such accidents and their associated harm.
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