Driving under the influence isn’t limited to alcohol and many car accidents in Kentucky are caused by drivers under the influence of prescription medications.  How can you tell if the driver who caused the accident might be affected by prescription drugs?  The Mayo clinic recently highlighted a few of these symptoms.

Slurred or Confused speech is an obvious sign for alcohol it is also an indicator the driver might be under the influence of a pain killer or anti-anxiety medications.  Anyone would be upset after a car accident, but is the other driver overly agitated?  This is also a symptom of a common stimulants used to treat attention deficit and hyperactivity.  Under normal doses these drugs should not impede a driver’s skill, but abuse can lead to excessive agitation, paranoia and even active hostility.

Drowsiness and poor concentration are often symptoms of pain killers such as Vicodin or Oxycontin.

Statistics from the Kentucky State Police increasingly show driving under the influence isn’t limited to alcohol.  “Medication” is shown as the primary cause of a collision in hundreds of cases each year in Kentucky.  The officers at the scene will often test all parties for alcohol and drugs, it is a good idea to tell the officer at an accident scene if you’ve witnessed one or more of these signs in the other driver.

Thousands of DUI related accidents occur in Kentucky each year.  Driving under the influence is one of the primary causes of serious injuries and wrongful death in a car accident.  If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident seek a thorough medical examination within 24 to 48 hours of the accident and contact HLH or call (866) 583-9701 for a free consultation.  Ask how our experienced injury attorneys can make a substantial difference in your case.  We work to protect your rights and seek the full and fair compensation you deserve.