Drugged driving is fast becoming a serious problem in Indiana, with this practice being the leading cause of accidents in Mississippi. A large majority of Americans are on one form of prescription medication or the other, and some engage in recreational drug taking without caring about its legal status. This makes our roads dangerous places where one must practice defensive driving in order to avoid becoming a victim of an Indiana car crash.
Drugged Driving a Major Issue in Indiana
Drugged driving refers to operating a vehicle while under the influence of a mind-altering substance that isn’t alcohol. While teenagers and young adults are more likely to use soft recreational drugs such as marijuana, a large majority of the Indiana population is on prescription medication for conditions such as depression, anxiety, diabetes, blood pressure or allergies. These drugs, while helpful, are not to be taken when one is planning on driving to a certain destination.
Here’s a list of some of the drugs and medications involved in drug driving:
- Stimulants such as Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta are used to treat ADHD. While they are effective, they may make a person aggressive which can then make them take it out on other road users via incidents such as road rage.
- Anti-anxiety medication and sedatives such as Melatonin work to suppress the central nervous system in order to get rid of anxiety, sleeplessness and muscle tension. These medications have been known to cause drowsiness and dizziness, both of which can result in the loss of control of a vehicle, leading to an Indiana accident.
- Street drugs such as cocaine and marijuana can lead to hallucinations and delusions, causing people to lose touch with reality and make fatal mistakes on our Indiana roads.
- Antihistamines such as Zyrtec, Allegra and Claritin work to decongest the chest and nose as well as minimize and prevent allergic reactions. However, they are also known to cause low blood pressure and dizziness, two things that can lead to distracted driving, causing accidents.
Legal Help for Indiana Car Crashes
Drugged drivers may be liable in one of two ways – through criminal prosecution as well as civil law, through an Indiana personal injury lawsuit. It is not uncommon for drugged drivers in Indiana to evade criminal prosecution by paying a fine; however, it is up to you to hold them accountable by making them pay for your injuries through an insurance settlement initiated by our law firm. Please give us a call today on 877-561-3004 so we can discuss the particulars of your claim. Thanks for choosing us.