Alcohol, Drugs Found in More Than 50 Percent of Killed Drivers

December 01, 2012

An alarming new study shows that more than half of drivers killed in car accidents in the United States had alcohol or drugs in their systems at the time of the crash. The study examined data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and car crash deaths in 14 states and revealed interesting results.

The results of the study

From 2005-2009, the study looked at over 20,000 fatally injured drivers. Approximately 57 percent tested positive for at least one drug. One in five had more than one drug in their system at the time of the accident. Alcohol was the most common; marijuana, Adderall and amphetamines were also pervasive.

According the results, men were more likely to have alcohol or drugs in their systems than women. Approximately 60 percent of men that were killed had drugs or alcohol in their systems and less than 50 percent of women tested positive. And, perhaps not surprisingly, those killed in the evening or over the weekend were more likely to test positive.

Additionally, Native Americans were more likely to have alcohol or drugs in their system. Blacks and whites tested equally and Asians were the least likely.

The data, however, is not a reflection on the actual impairment of the driver at the time of the crash. Robert Voas from the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation in Calverton, Maryland, says that, unfortunately, there is no way to tell a driver's level of intoxication or whether intoxication was actually the cause of the crash. When it comes to drugs including prescription drugs, for instance, a user can test positive for several days after the drug was ingested.

Joanne Brady of Columbia University and co-author of the study, however, agrees and says that "there's a need for more testing, and more consistence within the testing."

Impaired driving still problematic despite heightened awareness

Despite the public awareness about the dangers and repercussions of driving impaired, the problem still persists.

Some contribute the continued crisis to prescription drug use. Prescription drug use, particularly opiate use, has increased tremendously over the years. Many people think they are safe and do not impair their ability to drive because these drugs are prescribed by a doctor. Others contribute the rise to the "invincibility factor." People just do not take the messages seriously and think that an accident will not happen to them.

However, driving impaired carries serious penalties. Those injured as a result of an individual driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can seek compensation under the law. Speaking with a personal injury attorney is advised.

Article provided by Bley & Evans, LC
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