Any type of impaired driving is irresponsible and dangerous, whether a New York driver is impaired because of alcohol consumption, drugs or even distraction. Anything that affects a driver’s ability to safely operate a moving vehicle is a threat to everyone else on the road and greatly increases the chance of an accident.
Drugged driving is a dangerous type of impaired driving, but it may not get as much attention as the dangers of drunk driving or distracted driving. In reality, even small amounts of minor drugs can affect a driver’s cognition and physical reactions. Drivers who are under the influence of drugs can display some of the same dangerous behaviors as drunk drivers, such as swerving or driving at erratic speeds.
The most dangerous types of drugs
Marijuana is a relatively common type of drug, used for both recreational purposes and the alleviation of certain medical conditions or symptoms. Despite a changing cultural perception of the use of cannabis, it still has an impact on the person taking it. Behind the wheel, people high on marijuana can experience the following:
- Difficulty perceiving the time required to come to a complete stop or perceiving dangers ahead
- Slower cognitive function, leading to poor decisions while driving
- Lack of ability to control speed and steer correctly
Marijuana and driving never mix. It is dangerous to take any type of drug, even certain prescription medications, and get behind the wheel. Other types of drugs that could affect a person’s driving include the following:
- Cocaine
- Opiates
- Tranquilizers
- Amphetamines
There is no excuse for taking a medication or illicit drug and then getting behind the wheel of a vehicle. Regardless of the type of drug or the reason for taking it, each person is responsible for knowing when he or she cannot drive safely. This type of negligence places every motorist and passenger at risk of injury or even death.
Fighting for your rights as a victim
If you were hurt in an accident that was the result of a driver who was high at the time, you can take action. You likely have grounds for a personal injury claim, which would allow you to recover your losses and move forward with your life.
You always have the right to know your legal options, and you can do so by seeking a complete evaluation of your case as soon as possible after an accident. With a full understanding of your legal rights, you can move forward with the most appropriate course of action.