Drugged Driver Involved in Rancho Cordova Crash
I’m Ed Smith, a Rancho Cordova personal injury lawyer. An impaired driver crashed into a local dwelling on January 10, causing serious damage to the house. The driver was apprehended and submitted to tests that revealed the presence of prescription drugs.
Details of the Accident
According to police, the accident was caused by a female driver who struck a car parked in the driveway of a home on Arrington Drive. The driver left the scene and was apprehended by police several blocks away. Due to the impact of the suspect’s car with the parked vehicle, one of the front support pillars of the home was dislodged. Reportedly, the car did not breach the front wall of the home. No injury to any of the occupants has been reported. There is no word as to what prescription drugs were involved. However, alcohol was not found when the suspect was tested.
California Drugged Driving Law
Under California Vehicle Code 23152, it is illegal for a driver to operate a motor vehicle when they are impaired by any drug. The broad nature of the language in this section indicates that both illegal and legal drugs are included. Legal drugs include, both over the counter drugs and prescribed drugs. Some common prescribed drugs that fall into this category are:
Muscle relaxants
- Drugs that quell anxiety such as Valium and Xanax
- Painkillers such as oxycodone
- Antidepressants
- Sedatives or pills to induce sleep
Common Symptoms From OTC and Prescription Drugs
According to the Food and Drug Administration, some OTC and prescription drugs can cause the following symptoms:
- Vision disturbances such as blurred vision
- Sleepiness leading to drowsy driving
- Delayed reactions
- Lightheadedness
- Distracted mentation
- Loss of focus
Over-the-Counter Medications
Some OTC meds have an effect on a motorist’s ability to drive without endangering themselves and others on the road. Chief among these are drugs taken for allergy such as Benedryl, which is also touted as an OTC sleep aid. Others taken for sinus problems or seasonal allergies may have a similar effect on a driver. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, such drugs affect performance and judgment, two necessary components needed for safe driving.
New Program to Make Drivers Aware of Drugged Driving Dangers
The OTS has instituted a program aimed at making drivers aware of how dangerous OTC and prescription drugs can be. The OTS director warned that there is a higher incidence of drivers using OTC and prescription drugs and driving. One of the main issues is that drivers believe if the drug was prescribed for them, it is safe in terms of driving. Doctors and pharmacists have an obligation to warn patients of the deleterious effects of any drug and whether it is safe to drive while taking it. Since people react differently to drugs, an individual must observe how the drug affects them and whether they feel competent to drive. If uncertain, talking to a doctor or pharmacist may help.
Mixing Drugs
Drivers need to monitor what they are taking. For instance, it is not enough to learn the side effects of each medication. Some medications have a profound effect on each other. Taken together, multiple medications may interact in a way as to produce unwanted symptoms. Since many patients see multiple physicians, it is important to discuss interactions with either a physician or pharmacist.
Ways to Stay Safe When Taking Medications
It is important to report any side effects such as drowsiness to your physician. He or she may change the medication or the dose. Another alternative is to take the medication at a time when side effects will subside before driving. A driver may also be instructed to eat with the medication to lessen the side effects. It is important to follow the doctor’s instruction.
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Rancho Cordova Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Rancho Cordova personal injury lawyer. If you have suffered injuries due to a drugged driver, you may be able to receive financial compensation. Reach out to me at (916) 921-6400 locally and (800) 404-5400 out of the area. I can also be contacted online if that is easier for you. I will give you friendly and free advice.
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