Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog
Drivers face a myriad of potential hazards on the roads in Miami, Hollywood, and across Florida. While many people are aware of the dangers of drunk driving, there is less awareness about drugged driving. Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs poses severe risks to everyone on the roads and the drugged driving claims attorneys at Flaxman Law Group have worked with many Florida residents whose lives have been forever changed by the actions of a driver under the influence.
If you’ve been injured because of a car accident, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Flaxman Law Group for a free case consultation with a Miami drugged driving claims lawyer.
Understanding Drugged Driving
Drugged driving involves operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs. This can impair a driver’s cognitive abilities, motor skills, and reaction times, significantly increasing the likelihood of car crashes.
Some of the most common drugs associated with drugged driving in Florida include:
- Marijuana. THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, can impair coordination and reaction times, affecting a driver’s ability to stay attentive on the road.
- Prescription Drugs. Some prescription medications, including opioids and other pain medication as well as sleep aids, can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and decreased alertness, making them hazardous for drivers.
- Illegal Drugs. Cocaine, methamphetamine, hallucinogens, and other controlled substances can severely impair a driver’s judgment, perception, and motor skills.
- Over-the-Counter Medications. Even seemingly harmless over-the-counter drugs like antihistamines or cough suppressants can cause drowsiness and impair a driver’s ability to concentrate.
The Dangers of Drugged Driving
Drugged driving is a common problem that jeopardizes the safety of all road users. Driving under the influence of drugs can lead to:
- Reduced reaction times, affecting a driver’s ability to respond to sudden changes in traffic.
- Impaired judgment, leading to risky maneuvers and unsafe driving decisions.
- Decreased coordination and motor skills, making it difficult for drivers to maintain control of their cars.
- Increased likelihood of traffic violations and accidents.
Drugged Driving Laws
In response to the rising concerns of drugged driving, states have implemented strict laws and penalties to deter impaired driving. In Florida, drivers who are found to be driving under the influence of drugs can face criminal charges, penalties, loss of the privilege to drive, and even jail time, depending on the severity of the accident they cause.
If you’re injured by a drugged driver, you may also be able to file a civil claim, regardless of the outcome of any criminal charges. Filing a claim lets you seek compensation for your losses, including car repairs, medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
The challenge is that is that it can be difficult to pursue such a case. Drug use may be less noticeable than alcohol use. Police at the scene may not test for all drugs and motorists using controlled substances may take many precautions to avoid getting caught.
You need an experienced Miami drugged driving claims lawyer in this situation—someone who can uncover evidence of drug use and who can build a strong case for you. If you’re looking for a compassionate and experienced attorney, call Flaxman Law Group at 866-352-9626 or contact us online. We have recovered over $100 million on behalf of injured individuals and their families and we’re proud to have offices in Miami, Homestead, and Hollywood to serve the entire South Florida area.