What Is Drugged Driving in Illinois?

 Posted on August 12, 2019 in Car Accidents

Drugged driving occurs when someone drives a vehicle while impaired from the intoxicating effects of recent drug use. Illinois has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drugged driving, and it does not matter whether the drugs are prescribed or not. This is because drugged driving and related accidents is becoming worse in the state.

Drugged Driving Problem on the Rise

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a roadside survey in 2014 found that more than 22 percent of all participating drivers tested positive for illicit substances, prescription medications, or non-prescription over-the-counter drugs. Driving with drugs in one’s system puts the driver, passengers and other drivers at serious risk of injury, just like the use of alcohol and driving does.

The Dangers of Drugged Driving

The dangers of driving while one has drugs in their body vary in degree of gravity, depending on the effect of the drugs to the brain at any given time. For example, having marijuana in the body can slow reaction time, distort time and distance while decreasing coordination. On the other hand, use of cocaine or methamphetamine is linked to aggressiveness and recklessness when driving. Driving under any of these drug effects can lead to injury-causing accidents.

Teenagers and Use of Drugs

Drugged driving is common among teens and older adults. Unlike other drivers who are more experienced in driving, teenage drivers often underestimate or fail to recognize dangerous situations made worse if they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Teenagers are also more likely to speed and tailgate. All these individually or combined constitute a potential tragedy waiting to happen.

Preventing Drugged Driving

The following social strategies are recommended by health experts to prevent driving while impaired:

• Having a designated driver appointed ahead of any activities involving the use of drugs or alcohol;
• Offering yourself to be the designated driver;
• Using public transportation such as a taxi or bus to and from parties where drugs or alcohol will likely be consumed;
• Having a discussion with your friends about the dangers of using and driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol; and
• Avoiding all use of drugs or alcohol.

A Lake County Impaired Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help

If you or a member of your family has been injured in a drugged driving accident, contact an experienced Waukegan personal injury lawyer to explore your available options. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your personal injury case by calling 630-480-6454 to set up an appointment at one of our convenient offices in Libertyville, Wheaton, Waukegan, Chicago, and Richmond. At Salvi & Maher, L.L.C., we collect our fees only when you collect compensation.

Sources:

https://www.ghsa.org/sites/default/files/2017-07/GHSA_DruggedDriving2017_FINAL_revised.pdf

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/062500050K11-501.htm