Driving Under The Influence Of Marijuana Blamed For Fatal Car Accident In Bradenton

Most people are aware of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and how it increases the chances of car accidents in Bradenton. However, marijuana and certain medications increase the odds of crashes and collisions as well, regardless of whether they are prescribed or obtained illegally. Drug-impaired driving is blamed for a recent fatal crash in our area, and our Bradenton car accident lawyer wants you to be aware of the risks.

Driver Was High During Fatal Car Accident That Injured Three Children

A local woman was recently sentenced to 15 years in prison for her role in a fatal Bradenton car accident. According to a January 2023 Bradenton Herald news report, the crash happened on U.S. 19 near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in 2015.

The woman was headed southbound when she lost control of her vehicle and crashed head-on into a van carrying three children. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene, and the children were taken to a local hospital with serious personal injuries.

Police report a pill bottle filled with marijuana was found in her handbag, which was on the front seat, along with two marijuana pipes. Blood samples indicated that she was under the influence during the collision. While it has taken more than five years to get justice in the case, she was recently convicted of DUI manslaughter and other charges. In addition to the 15-year jail sentence, she faces an additional 10 years of probation and permanent revocation of her driving privileges. She can also be held liable in civil court through a wrongful death and personal injury claim.

Driving Under The Influence of Marijuana Or Medications

Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal in Florida and a leading cause of car accidents in Bradenton. However, being under the influence of mind-altering drugs also increases the risks and could result in criminal charges and civil liability in the event of a crash.

Unfortunately, this has become an increasingly common problem, particularly with changing medical marijuana laws in the U.S. Medical marijuana is legal throughout the state, provided you meet qualifying conditions and receive approval through the Florida Department of Health Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU). However, being under the influence of it impairs driving abilities. Other medications that often contribute to crashes include:

• Anti-anxiety medications, such as Valium or Xanax;
• Sleeping pills, such as Ambien;
• Muscle relaxers, such as Flexerill;
• High blood pressure medicines, such as Prinivil and Zestril.

Injured Due To An Impaired Driver? Reach Out To Our Bradenton Car Accident Lawyer

Being under the influence of drugs, whether prescribed or illegal, increases car accident risks in Bradenton. If you or someone you love is injured in this type of crash, reach out to Bradenton car accident lawyer Steven G. Lavely. We hold impaired drivers accountable and help you get compensation in a claim. Contact our office and request a consultation today.

Sources:

bradenton.com/news/local/crime/article271515587.html

knowthefactsmmj.com/#:~:text=for%20Responsible%20Use.-,Patients,Learn%20the%20steps%20to%20treatment.