Every person in America has been affected by a car wreck. Car wrecks are the most common cause of death in 15 to 29-year-ols. Damage from car wrecks cost the U.S. $230.6 billion every year. That equals $820 per person living in the United States.
A startling contributor to the dangers on the road is drugged driving. The legalization of marijuana has led to significantly higher instances of car wrecks involving a driver under the influence of drugs. If you are involved in a wreck caused by someone under the influence of marijuana, knowing what immediate action to take is crucial for recovering compensation for the damage caused.
How Does Marijuana Use Contribute to Increased Car Accidents?
Not only does marijuana use contribute to increased car accidents, it is becoming on of the greatest culprits. Marijuana is second only to alcohol in causing DUI citations.
It is extremely dangerous to have drivers under the influence of marijuana on the road as marijuana slows reaction time, and impairs motor skills.
What Do You Do After a Car Accident Caused by an Intoxicated Driver?
If you are in a wreck and you believe the other driver is under the influence of marijuana, establishing that at the scene is crucial, as it will be difficult prove after the intoxication of the driver wears off:
- Tell the police officer if you smelled marijuana on the other driver after the collision. A driver who was under the influence could use fragrance to cover the smell before the police arrive. Telling the cop of your suspicion will ensure they administer a drug test.
- If the other driver uses eye drops immediately after the wreck, they may be attempting to cover their red eyes from marijuana use to avoid the police recognizing it. Your testimony that the driver used eye drops following the wreck might be enough reasonable suspicion for a cop to administer a drug test.
- If the other driver attempts to dispose of anything before cops arrive, this might be an indication that they are hiding illegal substances. If you see this, make sure to record it in your testimony on the police report.
Once you have documentation of the other driver’s intoxication on the police report, you should contact a personal injury lawyer who can guide you through the next steps in ensuring you are justly compensated for damage and injury caused by a driver under the influence of marijuana.
How to Find Personal Injury Lawyers
Finding the best personal injury attorney for your case will make a huge difference in the outcome of your case. A few ways to make sure you find a good one:
- Ask your acquaintances who have used a personal injury lawyer for their recommendation.
- Ask for referrals from professionals who regularly participate in personal injury cases, such as insurance professionals, physicians, or lawyers practicing other areas of law.
- Look at lawyer directories that allow you to enter the specifics about your case and lawyers in your area who are interested in working on it will contact you.
How does marijuana use contribute to increased car accidents in your area? Have you, or someone you know, been impacted by a marijuana-related wreck? Please leave a comment, we want to hear about your experience. Read more here.