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You were in a car crash and are infuriated to hear that the driver who caused your accident—and injuries—was on drugs at the time of the crash. “But I have a prescription for that,” the driver explains. Your response could very well be, “So what?”
Just because the at-fault driver may have had a prescription for a certain prohibited or controlled substance does not give that person a “get out of jail free” card. Pennsylvania law does not permit that fact to be used as a reasonable defense in any criminal—or civil—case. It is the driver’s responsibility to make sure he or she is capable of driving before getting behind the wheel of a vehicle, no matter what the doctor has prescribed.
Several prescription drugs can have an adverse affect on a person’s ability to drive a vehicle. Some drugs affect a person’s perception while others simply make the person extra drowsy. Many prescriptions clearly warn the patient not to operate a motor vehicle while taking that particular medication. Very few people adhere to that suggestion, however, and their disregard for safety can lead to a serious Harrisburg car crash.
If you’ve been the victim of an accident where drugged driving was the cause, you may be able to recoup damages from the at-fault driver. You should consult with an experienced Harrisburg car accident lawyer who can help you determine the best way to pursue your personal injury claim. To get started, simply start an online chat with one of our representatives or fill out our quick and easy contact form.