Handling an Accident Caused by a High Driver

Impaired driving due to the use of drugs, including marijuana and other substances, is a serious issue on our roads. The unfortunate reality is that impaired driving leads to thousands of accidents each year. Understanding how to handle an accident caused by a high driver is essential for protecting your legal rights and obtaining the compensation you deserve. Properly addressing these incidents requires knowledge of the legal process, gathering evidence, and working with an experienced Fresno auto wreck attorney who can hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.

Recognizing Impairment in a Driver

Identifying whether a driver is under the influence of drugs is an important step in managing an accident caused by impairment. Drivers impaired by drugs often display specific behaviors and physical signs that indicate their reduced ability to operate a vehicle safely. Common signs include:

• Slurred Speech
• Delayed Reaction Times
• Erratic Driving
• Red Eyes
• Smell of Marijuana

Recognizing these signs can help in assessing the situation and collecting necessary evidence for your legal case.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident With a Suspected Impaired Driver

Experiencing a car accident can be a distressing event, requiring quick and decisive action to ensure everyone's safety and to properly document the incident. Certain immediate steps should be followed to protect both your legal rights and your health, especially if you believe the other driver involved was impaired.

Ensure Safety and Call 911

The top priority following an accident is the safety of all individuals involved. Begin by assessing the situation for any injuries and move to a safe location if possible. Once safety is ensured, it is crucial to call 911 to report the accident, or report the accident online.

Report Suspected Impairment

If there is reason to believe that the other driver involved in the accident is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it is essential to communicate these suspicions to the responding officers.

Gather Evidence

Collecting evidence at the scene is essential for supporting your insurance claim and any potential legal actions. Take comprehensive photos of the accident site, the extent of vehicle damage, and any evident signs of impairment, such as open containers or drug paraphernalia in the other vehicle. This documentation can be instrumental in establishing the facts of the incident.

Get Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine after the accident, seeking a medical evaluation is important. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent but can have lasting effects. Medical documentation can serve as essential evidence for insurance claims and legal matters.

Exchange Information

Be prepared to provide and obtain information from all parties involved in the accident, including names, contact information, driver's license numbers, insurance companies, and policy numbers. It is also helpful to gather contact information from any witnesses.

Contact Legal Representation

In most cases, it is beneficial to seek legal representation following a car accident. An experienced Fresno personal injury attorney can help navigate the legal process and advocate on your behalf for fair compensation.

Proving the Driver’s Impairment

In the aftermath of a car accident, establishing that a driver was impaired due to drug use can be critical in legal proceedings and insurance claims. Solid evidence is required to demonstrate impairment and fault. Important types of evidence include the following:

Police Report

The accident report compiled by law enforcement serves as critical evidence. If the responding officers conduct drug testing at the scene or shortly afterward, the results are instrumental in confirming the driver's impairment. Detailed records within the report, such as the officer's observations of the driver’s behavior, presence of paraphernalia, or any admissions made, can significantly bolster claims of impairment.

Eyewitness Testimony

Eyewitnesses to the accident can provide crucial testimony regarding the driver’s actions leading up to and following the collision. Their accounts of erratic driving patterns, disorientation, or visible signs of drug use can corroborate the suspicion of impairment.

Medical and Toxicology Reports

Toxicology reports conducted on the driver after the accident are perhaps the most definitive evidence in proving impairment. If you need help after an accident where you believe the driver was high, reach out today to schedule a free consultation.