New Study Shows Drugged Driving Increases Risk of Accidents

September 30, 2013

While most motorists are aware of the serious dangers posed by drinking and driving, the New York Car Accident Lawyers with William Mattar Law Offices explain the similar risks of drugged driving are often ignored. A new study conducted at the Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health is hoping to raise awareness to the hazards of using controlled substances and getting behind the wheel of a vehicle.

According to United Press International, the study examined data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Researchers found that almost 32 percent of drivers involved in fatal motor vehicle collisions and roughly 14 percent of drivers stopped along the highway tested positive for drugs other than alcohol in their systems.

From these findings, the team was able to conclude that motorists who drive under the influence of drugs are at three times the risk of being involved in accidents.

The team went on to find that the risks of a crash skyrocket for drivers who consume both drugs and alcohol while driving. Crash rates rise exponentially when blood alcohol levels increased under the influence of drugs.

William Mattar’s New York Personal Injury Lawyers are hopeful the study’s findings will help persuade citizens to never get behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming anything that can impair judgment abilities.