While there have been many awareness campaigns about drunk driving collisions in Coral Gables and Florida, many drivers unfortunately remain confused about drugged driving and what it can entail. It may be easier to drive under the influence than many people realize, and the consequences can be devastating.
How Drugged Driving Happens
There are many ways drugged driving can happen in Coral Gables:
- A driver may take illegal substances and get behind the wheel of a car.
- A driver may be on prescription medication and may not be aware of the side effects of the medication.
- Combining multiple medications and experiencing side effects which affect driving.
- Taking over-the-counter medication – including some and common cold and flu medication – which can make drivers unsafely drowsy.
- Failing to follow medical advice after a surgery and medical treatment.
- Motorists have an obligation to ensure they are safe when they drive. This means all drivers should:
- Talk to their doctors and pharmacists about the medication and supplements they are taking to make sure the combination of medications will not cause drowsiness, confusion, or any symptoms which can affect driving.
- Read labels of any supplements or medication being taken, to ensure it is safe to drive while taking the substance.
- Use extra caution when taking new medication, paying attention to any symptoms or side effects.
- Take alternative transportation if they have any doubts about their ability to drive.
Some injured Coral Gables residents believe they only have a claim if the other driver was using a banned substance, but this is not the case. Any substance taken by a driver which leads to their causing a collision can be a sign of negligence and can mean you may have a claim. If you are not sure you have a car collision claim, you can also always contact Flaxman Law Group for a free accident consultation.
The Dangers of Drugged Driving
Whether someone is taking illicit drugs or a cough syrup which leads to drowsiness, drugged driving is extremely dangerous, because it can lead to:
- Falling asleep at the wheel
- Slower response times
- Preventable mistakes on the road
- Speeding
- Blurred vision
- Drowsiness and distraction
- Someone who is under the influence of any drowsiness-including or mind-altering substance, legal or not, is not safe on the road and can be held liable if they cause a crash.
Was My Car Crash in Coral Gables Caused by a Drugged Driver?
It’s not always easy to tell whether another driver involved in your traffic collision in Coral Gables was driving under the influence. You may notice some signs, such as slurred speech, unusual movements or mobility troubles, or difficulty staying awake. If you notice any of these, contact police.
Even if you don’t notice obvious signs of driving under the influence, if you have any suspicions, speak with a Coral Gables DUI car accident claims attorney. Attorneys may be able to secure medical records or hire expert witnesses or take additional steps to secure evidence which may be able to prove the other driver was responsible for a DUI.
If you have been involved in a traffic collision in South Florida and believe alcohol or drugs may have played a role, contact Flaxman Law Group at 1-866-352-9626 (1-866-FLAXMAN) for a free accident consultation with a Coral Gables car accident claims attorney. Our legal team has been helping injured plaintiffs for years and we have recovered tens of millions of dollars on behalf of injured people who needed compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other losses. Contact us today to discuss your potential claim.