Unfortunately, accidents involving individuals impaired by illicit, prescription, and even over-the-counter narcotics and medications are not uncommon throughout the state of Arizona. If you have been harmed by an impaired individual on the roadways, we encourage you to call a Phoenix car accident lawyer who can walk you through this entire process. Recovering compensation for your medical bills, any lost income, property damage expenses, and even your pain and suffering is of paramount importance.
What is a DUI Drug Accident?
A DUI drug accident occurs when a driver is impaired by drugs and causes a collision. Unlike alcohol-related DUIs, drug DUIs involve impairment from substances like illegal drugs, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs that impair a person’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Arizona law treats drug-impaired driving just as seriously as alcohol-impaired driving, and the penalties can be severe.
Common drugs that can impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely include:
- Illicit drugs, such as LSD, opiates, cocaine, or methamphetamine, or marijuana.
- Prescription medications, including painkillers, anti-anxiety medications, or sleeping pills.
- Over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines or cold medicine, which can cause drowsiness or impair concentration.
When a driver is under the influence of drugs, their reaction time, judgment, and coordination are often impaired, making them a serious threat on the road.
Arizona Laws on Drug-Impaired Driving
In Arizona, it is illegal to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. According to Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) § 28-1381, a person can be charged with a DUI if they are operating a vehicle while impaired by any drug, whether it is legal or illegal. Arizona law states that it is unlawful for a person to drive if they have any amount of certain controlled substances in their system, including marijuana, methamphetamines, cocaine, and other illicit drugs.
Even if a person is legally prescribed medication, they can still face DUI charges if the drug impairs their ability to drive. The penalties for drug-impaired driving in Arizona include fines, license suspension, and even jail time, depending on the circumstances of the case.
Compensation for DUI Drug Accident Victims
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drug-related DUI accident in Arizona, it is important to know that you may be entitled to compensation for the damages you have suffered. These types of tragic collisions can have a wide range of physical, emotional, and financial consequences, and the law allows crash survivors to seek compensation for several different losses (families of anyone killed in a DUI incident can pursue a wrongful death claim as well).
For example, you may be able to recover medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and any ongoing treatments needed because of your injuries. Additionally, if your injuries keep you from handling work duties, you could receive compensation for lost wages, covering the income you missed during recovery as well as any future reduction in your earning capacity.
Beyond financial losses, victims of DUI drug accidents often experience significant physical and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering may be available to address the physical pain, emotional trauma, and any long-term effects, such as scarring or disabilities, resulting from the crash. Damage to your personal property, such as your vehicle, may also be included under property damage compensation.
In certain situations, victims can also be awarded punitive damages, which are meant to serve as a form of punishment for the at-fault driver while also serving as a deterrent for similar actions in the future.
Contact an Arizona Car Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI drug accident, it is crucial to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. These cases can be complex, and proving liability often requires a thorough investigation. At Sargon Law Group, our experienced car accident attorneys are ready to help you navigate the legal process and recover the compensation you deserve. Reach out to our injury attorneys in Phoenix by filling out our contact form or calling (623) 552-2571 for a free consultation.