Most people associate DUI driving accidents in Florida as solely alcohol-related. This is far from the truth. Florida DUI accidents from drug use are hardly ever reported by the media. “Drugged driving” in Florida is an issue that has been placed on the back burner of education. It is one of the top causes of car accidents and no one realizes it.
The Florida DMV records shows there were 35,372 DUI convictions in Florida in 2007. According to Florida law (s.316,193, F.F.) a DUI is defined as Driving Under the Influence of Alcoholic Beverages, Chemical Substances or Controlled Substances.
The use of drugs in South Florida auto accidents, as well as auto accidents nationally, isn’t always from the use of illegal drugs. They also can be the result of drug prescriptions and over-the-counter medications that are not prescribed.
South Florida drugged drivers who have taken any substance can impair their driving skills. Many drugs can cause drowsiness or sleepiness, as well as other negative effects. Most prescriptions and non-prescriptions have written warnings on the labels of the bottles and packaging warning people not to drive while taking the medication.
Everyone has different reactions to taking drugs whether it is prescriptions, non-prescription or illegal drugs. Medications can affect the brain and have a negative impact on driving and perception. Some drivers get very drowsy behind the wheel and fall asleep. The end result is crashing into another vehicle, pedestrian or object. It can be deadly.
Other dangerous side effects to drivers who are taking drugs include:
- Dizziness
- Slow reactions
- Blurred vision
- Not being able to focus
- Lack of concentration
- Fainting
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Poor judgment
Results on how specific drugs react to individuals who have taken them depends how the drugs were administered. Some drugs are inhaled, smoked, injected or ingested. It also depends on the drug history of the abuser.
There are several different types of drugs that can impair a driver and cause an accident. Some of these drugs include:
- Depressants
- Stimulants
- Hallucinogens
Experienced South Florida car accident attorneys have seen the effects drugs have had on innocent victims injured by drugged drivers. Not only is the injured party affected by a DUI car accident in Florida, but the family is too.
If you were injured from a drugged driver in South Florida, you need to contact a South Florida personal injury attorney immediately. Not only can experienced attorney David M. Benenfeld help you recover damages from the accident, but they can help get the Florida drug driver off the streets and prevent another accident. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Ask a Question, Describe Your Situation,
Request a Free Consultation
Contact Us Today For a Case Consultation
Required Fields*
Your Information Is Safe With Us
We respect your privacy. The information you provide will be used to answer your question or to schedule an appointment if requested.
Related Blog Posts
Three Miami Workers Injured, Two In Critical Condition After Accident At Work
A recent on-the-job accident that resulted in injury for three workers in Miami has left two of the workers in critical condition, according to the Miami Herald. The article reports…
What Compensation Can My Family Receive from the Manufacturer After Our Mother Died In a Wheelchair Fire?
We are saddened to hear of your loss. It is devastating any time a loved one passes away, but it can be even more upsetting when your mother is taken…
Teacher Injuries In Florida Schools
When most of us think about workplace injuries and risks of harm at a workplace, we do not immediately think of the injury risks that educators face. However, it is…
Trucking Accidents Turn Fatal: South Florida Is No Exception
Trucking accidents claim thousands of innocent lives every year. Studies reveal that most trucking accidents are caused by driver fatigue. Yet countless others are triggered by the truck’s defective parts.…