The continuing abuse of opiates lead to increased driving under the influence accidents and wrongful death here in Louisville and across Kentucky.  According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse Kentucky is one of the top ten states with the highest number of opioid deaths in the United States.  Kentucky is presently averaging almost double the national average in this category.  The opioid crisis also affects the safety of our roads.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), the Kentucky State Police and local law enforcement have hammered the “Don’t Drink and Drive” message for decades.  But a recent article in the Washington Post suggests we should consider campaigns targeting drugged drivers as well as drunk drivers.

Opiates (including prescription medications) lead to increased driving under the influence accidents which result in serious injuries and wrongful death.  The Governors Highway Safety Administration recently noted 43 percent of drivers in fatal accidents across the US had used a drug.  In 2005, the number of drug related auto accident deaths nationally was 28%.  The more concerning fact was number of drug related DUI fatalities exceeded alcohol related fatalities (37%) in DUI accidents for the first time ever.

What should you do if you are injured in a DUI related accident?  The first priority is to ensure all injured receive immediate medical care.  Contact police (911) and share your concern regarding your suspicions of an impaired driver to begin to establish a record of cause.  If you are not transported to the hospital make sure to visit an ER, Urgent Care or your primary physician for a thorough medical examination.  Many serious and painful injuries can take days or even weeks to present symptoms.  If you do not see a doctor within 48 hours of the accident you will in all likelihood be unable to file a personal injury claim, and this will absolutely impact the value of your case.

Opiates lead to increased driving under the influence accidents in Louisville and throughout Kentucky.  If you are injured in a car accident call HLH at (866) 583-9701 to speak with one of our attorneys personally for a free consultation or contact us and provide a quick summary of what has happened.  We will answer your questions and there is no cost to you out of pocket as we work on a contingency fee basis.