Substances That Are Often Linked to Driver Impairment

Many factors can contribute to auto accidents, and accidents are often linked to certain substances that drivers have consumed. By making yourself aware of the substances that can increase the chances of auto accidents, you can maintain safer driving conditions for yourself and other drivers.

You'll also have a stronger case if you and your attorney can prove that the driver who caused the accident was under the influence of one or more of these substances. Your attorney can also try to gather police reports, photographic evidence, and driver testimony to support your claim.

The chances of getting into an auto accident can increase significantly if a driver has consumed large amounts of any of the following substances.

Alcohol

Alcohol consumption often causes driver impairment and has been a contributing factor to many auto accidents. This substance is known to impair brain functioning and slow reaction times, which can spell disaster on the road. Alcohol can also make a driver drowsier and less alert behind the wheel. 

The legal amount of alcohol that a person can have to operate a motorized vehicle can vary from state to state, and the amount is measured in a person's blood alcohol content (BAC). The legal BAC limit for DUI in the state of Oregon is .08. If you get into an accident with someone who is over the legal limit, they could face jail time and other serious consequences for being under the influence of alcohol.

Marijuana

Recreational marijuana use is legal in different parts of the country, but drivers could still be criminally charged if they use the drug and get into an accident. Marijuana is known to interfere with balance and coordination and affect a person's ability to react and exercise good judgment. Marijuana can also impair memory, which could make a driver more dangerous if they become disoriented and crash.

Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine is a stimulant that can make a driver more aggressive and likelier to speed or veer off course on the road. Feelings of agitation and paranoia are also common with methamphetamine use and can increase the chances of causing an accident. Withdrawal from methamphetamine can also interfere with a person's driving ability by causing them to feel more tired and depressed.

Prescription Medications

Some prescription medications that are used to improve health can make driving unsafe. Even if a driver took a prescription medicine as directed, they could still get into trouble with the law if the medicine impaired their physical or mental functioning and an accident occurred. All details about a particular medication should be reviewed carefully to determine if the medicine is safe to take before driving.

Prescription medications that are known to make driving unsafe often fall under categories like:

• Sleep medications
• Seizure medications
• Anxiety medications
• Muscle relaxants
• Stimulants
• Opioids 

Caffeine 

Even caffeine can impair the ability to drive in some situations. While caffeine can combat fatigue and make drivers more alert on the road, too much of it can lead to insomnia and sleepiness behind the wheel, which can increase the chances of colliding with another vehicle. Diet and "stay awake" pills that contain large amounts of caffeine could make operating a vehicle especially dangerous.

You shouldn't have to face unnecessary dangers when you drive, and you shouldn't be afraid to hold any driver who caused an accident while being under the influence accountable. Walsh & Associates is a law firm that regularly handles auto accident cases and can offer you representation if you want to take legal action. Contact our team today to arrange a consultation with an attorney who listens to your concerns.