There’s no shortage of dangerous driving on Texas roadways. Car and truck accidents are an everyday reality in Dallas-Fort Worth. For the victims of those accidents, it’s important to understand the cause or causes that led to a crash.
The Substances of Impairment
Drunk driving is obviously a serious problem. Alcohol is a major contributor to car accidents, particularly fatal car accidents all over the country. That said, it’s not the only substance that can contribute to dangerous driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 56% of drivers involved in fatal accidents or accidents leading to serious injuries test positive for one or more drugs. The substances involved include:
- Alcohol
- Marijuana
- Methamphetamines
- Cocaine
- Prescription drugs
- Over the counter drugs causing drowsiness
The NHTSA also notes that the combination of substances, such as alcohol and prescription medications, can rob a driver of the ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Personal Injury Law and Impaired Driving
One of the key factors in any personal injury case is the determination of fault. A negligent driver who causes a car accident will not be able to collect compensation in a lawsuit. So figuring out who was at fault and how is vital.
Texas law uses a rule known as modified comparative negligence. This means that in Texas, if your mistakes were more than 50% of the cause of the accident, you are forbidden from collecting compensation from the other drivers involved.
If you are less than 50% at fault, whatever compensation you are entitled to will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. If you’re 10% at fault, you can only collect 90% of the compensation you would otherwise be entitled to.
Impaired Driving Is Illegal, Even If the Substance Is Not
While most people understand this fact when it comes to alcohol, it’s also true when it comes to drugs and medications. A valid prescription and a single glass of wine can combine to leave a driver impaired. You can collect compensation based on the other driver’s impairment even if that driver did not take an illegal drug or drink enough to exceed the legal limit.
Call an Attorney After Your Car Accidents
If you have been injured by an impaired driver, you need experienced legal help. At the Law Firm of Ted B. Lyon & Associates, located in Dallas-Fort Worth, we have extensive experience in motor vehicle accident cases.
We know how to help you prove that the other driver was negligent and caused your accident. To discuss your case, call us at 877-Ted-Lyon / 877-833-5966 or send us a message. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can make the difference for you.
