Practice Areas

Drug-Related Auto Accidents

Orlando and all of Florida

Alcohol is not the only source of driving under the influence. Both prescription and illegal drugs can lead to an auto accident caused by DUI. Drugs can severely affect the skills necessary to drive.

If you have been injured by a drugged driver, you should not have to pay for the consequences of your injury. Experienced attorney Michael Barszcz, M.D., J.D., is committed to recovering compensation for victims injured in drug-related auto accidents in Orlando and elsewhere in the state of Florida.

How Drugs Can Lead to Auto Accidents

Certain drugs are commonly found in impaired drivers who have been injured or killed in auto accidents. These drugs include:

• Marijuana and other hallucinogens
• Prescription drugs
• Cocaine
• Amphetamines
• Opiates
• Benzodiazepines (depressants used to treat insomnia and anxiety)

Both legal and illegal drugs can profoundly affect your mental state. Many prescription medications warn against operating heavy machinery for a certain amount of time after taking the medication. Fatigue and dizziness caused by drugs can easily lead to a devastating accident and common car accident injuries. The use of certain drugs affects:

• Judgment
• Reaction time
• Perception of time, speed and distance
• Vision
• Coordination
• Balance
• Memory

These physical, mental and cognitive faculties are critical to your ability to drive.

Holding Irresponsible Drivers Accountable

Drugged drivers not only compromise their own safety, they are risking the safety of their passengers and other motorists with whom they share the road.

In Florida, if a driver is involved in an accident that causes serious bodily injury, a chemical test to detect the presence of drugs and alcohol is required. Responding police officers are empowered to gather a blood sample from the driver, if necessary.

Drivers convicted of DUI that led to serious injury or wrongful death can face a number of criminal consequences. If you were injured in the auto accident, a criminal conviction cannot provide financial compensation for your injuries.

Attorney Michael Barszcz can help you recover fair and adequate compensation for the consequences of your injury, including:

• Lost income
• Medical expenses
• Physical rehabilitation expenses
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering

All motorists assume certain responsibilities when they get behind the wheel. One of those responsibilities is to drive free from the mind-altering effects of drugs and alcohol. Drivers who neglect their responsibilities should be held accountable for the injuries they cause to other drivers.

If you have been injured in a drug-related auto accident in Orlando or elsewhere in Florida, please contact experienced accident attorney Michael V. Barszcz, M.D., J.D., to schedule a consultation.