Driving Under the Influence of Drugs in Raleigh

Cars Ahead on Road

All motorists have a responsibility to only drive their vehicles with a sound mind and body. When drivers under the influence of drugs get behind the wheel, they put everyone on the road at risk of serious injury or worse. Crashes involving alcohol and drugs have devastating effects on victims and their loved ones. If you suffered harm due to an impaired driver’s actions, you deserve to hold them accountable.

Let the team at Hardison & Cochran provide the legal support you need as you pursue justice. Our DWI lawyers in Raleigh, NC, bring decades of experience and a strong track record to every case. We’re ready to help you fight for the compensation you deserve – and you pay nothing unless we win. Contact us today to get started with a free initial consultation.

How Do Drugs Affect Crash Risk?

Driving requires clear thinking, quick reflexes, and full control of the body. When someone drives under the influence of drugs, even minor impairments can significantly increase the chance of a motor vehicle accident. Many drugs interfere with a driver’s ability to concentrate, make good judgments, and respond quickly to changes in traffic patterns and road conditions. Some impairing substances cause drowsiness or blurred vision, while others create feelings of overconfidence that lead drivers to make reckless decisions. In many cases, drug-impaired drivers struggle to stay in their lane, follow traffic signals, or react to unexpected hazards. That makes it impossible for other drivers to predict what they will do next and drive defensively.

Studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have shown that drivers who use drugs are more likely to be involved in serious or fatal collisions compared to sober drivers. Regardless of whether a substance is illegal, prescribed, or sold over the counter, using drugs before driving puts the impaired driver and everyone else on the road in danger.

Common Drugs That Impair Driving Ability in Raleigh

Many different over-the-counter, prescription, and illegal drugs can impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. They may cause slowed reaction times, poor judgment, and a loss of physical coordination – all of which increase the risk of a serious crash. Some common drugs that affect driving ability include:

  • Marijuana – THC can slow reaction times, impair the ability to gauge distances, and reduce motor coordination.
  • Cocaine – Cocaine use can lead to reckless driving behaviors, as it makes drivers overly confident and aggressive behind the wheel.
  • Opioids – Controlled substances like oxycodone and hydrocodone can cause drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating.
  • Benzodiazepines – Prescription medications such as Valium and Xanax can cause sedation, dizziness, and problems with motor skills.
  • Methamphetamine – This stimulant can lead to aggressive driving, impaired decision-making, and visual disturbances.
  • Antihistamines – Some over-the-counter medications for allergies can cause drowsiness and delayed reaction times.

Legal Rights of Drugged Driving Accident Victims in Raleigh

Victims of drug-related car accidents often sustain severe, disabling, or even potentially life-threatening injuries. Fortunately, you have the right to file a personal injury claim against a driver whose negligence harmed you to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. A DWI attorney in Raleigh, NC, can guide you through this process.

Being able to prove that a driver was impaired by drugs at the time of the car wreck can strengthen your case. Your attorney will gather evidence such as police reports, toxicology results, witness statements, and expert testimony to support your car accident claim. Depending on the facts of the case, you might also pursue claims against other responsible parties, such as an employer if the impaired driver was working at the time of the crash.

While the period after a collision can be hectic and stressful, taking legal action quickly is essential. North Carolina law generally gives you only three years from the crash date to file a lawsuit. Your personal injury lawyer can manage the legal steps and file the necessary paperwork so you can focus on healing.

Compensation Available to Victims of Drug-Impaired Driving Accidents

If you suffered injuries in a collision with a drug-impaired driver, a Raleigh DWI lawyer can help you seek compensation for the resulting losses. Depending on the specifics of your car accident case, this might include:

  • Past, ongoing, and expected future medical bills
  • Lost income while recovering
  • Loss of future earning potential
  • Physical and emotional pain and suffering
  • Lower quality and enjoyment of life
  • Property damage

The amount of compensation you might be eligible to receive will depend on the severity of your injuries and the extent to which you’re expected to recover. Working with an experienced Raleigh car accident lawyer will help make sure you pursue every dollar you deserve.

How Hardison & Cochran Helps Drugged Driving Accident Victims

For over 40 years, Hardison & Cochran has supported car accident victims in Raleigh and throughout North Carolina, fighting for the compensation and justice they deserve after suffering devastating injuries. We’ve recovered millions for our clients, who regularly express appreciation for our approach and results. As one client wrote:

“My interaction with Hardison & Cochran was superb. They kept me fully informed of my case and advise on what to expect and everything went accordingly. I especially was elated with the client/attorney confidentiality and relationship. Hardison & Cochran was at my disposal for my every need and question! Thumbs up!” – Toney H.

When you trust Hardison & Cochran with your claim after a drugged driving accident, we will:

  • Conduct a thorough investigation into the crash to determine what happened and identify all potentially liable parties
  • Calculate the full extent of your financial and personal losses to pursue compensation
  • Negotiate with the insurance company to protect your rights and reach a fair settlement
  • Represent you in court if filing a lawsuit is necessary to demand the results you deserve
  • Handle paperwork, meet all applicable deadlines, answer your questions, and keep you informed at every stage of your case

If you’re facing the confusing aftermath of a drug-related car accident in Raleigh, you need experienced and committed legal representation to pursue full and fair compensation. Contact Hardison & Cochran right away for a free consultation with our DWI lawyers in Raleigh, NC, and move forward with confidence after a collision.