The notion that drivers under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol cause more accidents is nothing new. However, the idea that over the counter and prescription drugs may also be a factor in crash statistics is alarming, especially considering how many drivers probably hit the roads each day with some sort of medication coursing through their veins. According to a recent National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) report, the drug test results of drivers killed in car accidents show an increase in the contribution of both illegal and other drugs to their deaths.
NHTSA Report
The NHTSA recently published a report that analyzed data about drug use in motor vehicle accidents involving fatally injured drivers. Extensive research about the effects of alcohol on drivers has established a strong connection between the two. However, the influence of drugs, particularly over the counter and prescription, is still a hotly debated topic. The report was the first of its kind for the agency.
Drug Test Results
The NHTSA report indicated "one-third of all drug tests on drivers killed in motor vehicle accidents came back positive for drugs ranging from hallucinogens to prescription painkillers". The results showed a jump of five percentage points in how many drivers tested positive for drug use from 2005 to 2009. While many factors may have contributed to this increase, the main factor was an increase in the number of drivers who were tested for drug use during this period, which may point to the larger problem of inconsistent drug testing.
Inconsistent Testing
The data the NHTSA analyzed in the report was issued by state agencies and varied in some key areas. For example, the difference in the frequency of drug testing among states was an issue. According to the NHTSA, seventeen states have drug testing laws on the books. Currently, Texas does not. More state testing would mean more data available for analysis of this problem.
What Now?
There are still problems with drug testing, like the inability to know when a driver may have taken a drug. Further analysis is needed to uncover the scope of this growing issue. According to lawmakers, this research is needed to support the passage of laws to protect people from drivers under the influence of illegal, over the counter and prescription drugs.
Until then, it is up to those victims of crashes involving drug use, and their families, to hold drug abusers who drive accountable. If you or a loved one has been the victim of an accident caused by a driver under the influence of drugs, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to find out more about your legal rights and options.
