When a person takes a drug, prescribed or otherwise, it can impact his or her physical and mental function. Drugs can make it difficult for a person to drive safely, and drugged driving can be as dangerous as distracted or drunk driving. Injured victims in Hawaii have the right to seek compensation when a person under the influence of drugs causes an accident.
The effect that a drug will have on a person depends on many factors, such as the type of drug, the presence of alcohol in his or her system and more. Even a prescribed medication can have a detrimental impact on a person’s ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. Each driver is responsible for his or her decisions regarding drugs and driving.
Understanding a growing problem
With a large shift in the way many people view marijuana and the ability to get a prescription for medical cannabis in Hawaii, there could be more people driving while under the influence of this common drug. Regardless of medical need, driving after consuming cannabis is a dangerous choice, one that can come with detrimental consequences. Consider the following ways this drug can affect a driver:
- Impacts cognitive function
- Delays speech and recognition of hazards
- Affect a person’s perception of time and distance
- Decrease coordination and motor skills
Drivers who use more serious drugs, such as meth or cocaine, are more prone to driving aggressively and making intentionally reckless decisions while behind the wheel.
It does not matter what type of drug a person took or the reason for taking it, drugged driving is inexcusable and irresponsible. Victims may feel overwhelmed and frustrated at their situation, but with help, it is possible to hold the right people accountable for drugged driving accidents.
Taking quick action after your accident
Driving while under the influence of drugs can cause fatal or serious bodily injury to innocent people. If you are one of the people who experienced unnecessary harm because of drugged driving, you would be wise to take quick action to protect your interests. With help, you may be able to secure rightful recompense from the appropriate parties.
A personal injury claim cannot reverse what you experienced in a drugged driving incident, but it can help you recover your financial losses and compensate you for your emotional duress. If you believe that you may have grounds for a claim, you have no time to lose in learning about your legal options after an accident.