Drug Use Accidents

Drug-impaired driving is a growing problem in Maryland, and it puts countless drivers and pedestrians at risk. When a driver operates a vehicle under the influence of drugs, their reaction time and ability to make good decisions is compromised, often resulting in devastating accidents. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our experienced team of Prince George's County DUI accident lawyers is dedicated to helping victims of drug-impaired driving accidents pursue compensation for their injuries and losses. We have extensive experience handling these cases as well as a history of recovering large damages awards for our clients.

Drug and alcohol-related accidents are a significant concern in Prince George's County, as in much of Maryland. While the majority of DUI cases involve alcohol, drug-impaired driving incidents are increasing in frequency, particularly as the use of prescription medications, marijuana, and other substances becomes more prevalent.

In recent years, Maryland has seen a substantial number of impaired driving arrests. According to the Maryland Department of Transportation, there were over 18,000 DUI arrests in the state in a single year, with a significant portion of these involving drugs. Prince George's County, with its dense population and proximity to Washington, D.C., remains one of the counties with the most DUI arrests and accidents.

The rise in drug-related DUI accidents is concerning, as drug-impaired drivers may not always exhibit the same visible signs of impairment as alcohol-impaired drivers. This makes enforcement challenging and can lead to more dangerous situations on the road.

Drugs, whether they are illegal substances, prescription medications, or over-the-counter drugs, can significantly impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Depending on the type of drug, the effects can vary, but they all increase the risk of accidents. Some common effects of drug use on driving abilities include:

• Slowed reaction times: Drugs like marijuana, opioids, and sedatives can slow a driver’s reflexes, making it difficult to react quickly to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions.
• Impaired judgment: Drugs can affect a driver’s ability to make sound decisions, leading to reckless driving behaviors like speeding, running red lights, or failing to yield to pedestrians.
• Distorted perception: Some drugs, particularly hallucinogens, can alter a driver’s perception of time, distance, and space, making it dangerous to judge speed or proximity to other vehicles.
• Drowsiness or fatigue: Prescription medications, such as certain painkillers or sleep aids, can cause drowsiness, increasing the risk of falling asleep at the wheel.
• Increased risk-taking: Stimulants like cocaine or methamphetamines can cause drivers to engage in more aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating or weaving through traffic.

These impairments put everyone on the road at risk, as drug-impaired drivers are less able to respond to emergency situations, avoid collisions, and follow traffic laws.

In Maryland, victims of drug-impaired driving accidents have the right to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the impaired driver. A variety of parties may be eligible to bring a claim, depending on the circumstances of the accident:

• Injured drivers: If you were involved in an accident caused by a drug-impaired driver, you may file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
• Passengers: Passengers who are injured in a vehicle driven by an impaired driver or in another vehicle involved in the accident may also bring a lawsuit against the impaired driver.
• Pedestrians and bicyclists: Individuals who are struck by a drug-impaired driver while walking or cycling are eligible to pursue compensation for their injuries.
• Family members of deceased victims: In tragic cases where a drug-impaired driving accident results in a fatality, the surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering.

It’s important to note that Maryland follows a contributory negligence rule, which means that if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be prevented from recovering any compensation. This makes it crucial to work with an experienced Prince George’s car accident attorney who can create a compelling case that the impaired driver bears all responsibility for the accident.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI drug accident, you need experienced legal representation to ensure that your case is given the attention and consideration it deserves. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our Prince George’s County DUI accident lawyers have the knowledge and experience to advocate on your behalf and ensure you receive the compensation you need to get back on your feet. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation with our Prince George’s County personal injury attorney, call us at 301-441-2022. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville, and the surrounding areas.