Dunedin Drugged Driving Accident Attorneys

Seek Legal Representation with Our Tampa Bay Personal Injury Lawyer

If you have suffered a serious bodily injury due to the negligent actions of a driver on an illegal drug or controlled substance, our legal team at Paulsen Law Group can help you recover your entitled compensation. With over 15 years of legal experience, we have the comprehensive knowledge of Florida laws and court proceedings in order to navigate through the complexities of your case and obtain the results you desire. 

Injured by a drugged driver? You deserve justice and compensation. Contact us today at (888) 352-7180 for a free consultation!

Crashes Caused by Drivers Impaired by Drugs

Both legal and illegal drugs can affect a driver’s ability to safely operate their vehicle. According to 2010 study on fatal crashes by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 46.5% of drivers tested positive for prescription drugs, almost 37% had used marijuana, and almost 10% used cocaine.

Marijuana can slow reaction time, impair the judgment of time and distance, and decreased motor coordination. Drivers who have used methamphetamine or cocaine can demonstrate aggressiveness and recklessness behind the wheel. Even prescription bills, such as Vicodin and Xanax, can cause drowsiness and dizziness.

Legal Consequences for Drugged Drivers

Driving under the influence of drugs is a serious offense in Florida. Drugged drivers pose a major risk to themselves and others, and the law imposes strict penalties on those caught driving while impaired.

• Overview of Florida’s DUI Drug Laws
  • Florida law prohibits driving under the influence of any controlled substance, including illegal drugs, prescription medications, and over-the-counter drugs that impair driving ability.
  • Unlike alcohol-related DUIs, there is no legal "limit" for drugs. Instead, impairment is determined through field sobriety tests, toxicology reports, and officer observations.
• Penalties for Drugged Driving
  • First offense: Fines of $500–$1,000, license suspension for six months, and up to six months in jail.
  • Second offense: Higher fines, mandatory ignition interlock device, and up to nine months in jail.
  • Third offense (within 10 years): Felony charge with up to five years in prison, license revocation, and steep fines.
  • Additional penalties may include community service, probation, and mandatory drug treatment programs.
• How Drugged Driving Charges Differ from Alcohol-Related DUIs
  • Alcohol DUIs rely on a clear blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08%, while drug impairment is harder to measure.
  • Officers use behavioral signs (slurred speech, erratic driving, bloodshot eyes) rather than a breathalyzer test.
  • Many drivers challenge drugged driving charges, arguing the presence of drugs in their system does not mean they were impaired at the time of the crash.

How to Prove a Drugged Driving Accident Case

Proving that a driver was under the influence of drugs at the time of an accident requires strong evidence and legal expertise.

• Evidence Needed
  • Toxicology reports showing drugs in the driver’s system.
  • Police reports with officer observations, field sobriety test results, and any drug-related evidence found at the scene.
  • Witness statements from people who saw reckless driving or impairment signs.
• The Role of Experienced Testimony
  • Toxicologists can explain how specific drugs impair driving ability.
  • Accident reconstruction experts can determine how impairment contributed to the crash.
  • Medical professionals can testify about the driver’s condition at the time of the accident.
• How Attorneys Build Strong Cases
  • Reviewing dashcam and surveillance footage for signs of impairment.
  • Subpoenaing medical and pharmacy records if prescription drugs were involved.
  • Investigating the driver’s history of drug use and past offenses.

Common Injuries in Drugged Driving Accidents

Accidents caused by drug-impaired drivers can result in severe, life-altering injuries.

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
  • Head trauma can lead to memory loss, cognitive difficulties, and long-term disabilities.
  • TBIs often require extensive rehabilitation and ongoing medical care.
• Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
  • Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis.
  • Victims may require lifelong medical assistance and assistive devices.
• Broken Bones and Internal Injuries
  • High-speed crashes can cause severe fractures, internal bleeding, and organ damage.
  • Some injuries may require surgeries, long-term rehabilitation, and physical therapy.
• Emotional and Psychological Trauma
  • Survivors often experience PTSD, anxiety, and depression after a severe accident.
  • Counseling and mental health support are crucial for recovery.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a drugged driving accident, seeking legal help can ensure you get the compensation needed for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Drugged Driving Accidents

^{Can I still file a claim if the driver was using prescription medication?}

Yes. Even if the driver was taking legally prescribed medication, they can still be held liable if the drugs impaired their ability to drive safely. Many medications come with warnings about drowsiness, dizziness, or impaired judgment, which can lead to accidents.

What should I do if I suspect the other driver was under the influence of drugs?

If you believe the driver who caused the accident was impaired:

• Call 911 and report your suspicions to law enforcement.
• Take note of any unusual behavior, such as slurred speech or erratic driving.
• Ask witnesses if they noticed any signs of drug use.
• Contact a lawyer to help investigate and build your case.

Can I sue the driver even if they weren’t arrested for drugged driving?

Yes. A criminal charge is separate from a civil lawsuit. Even if the driver wasn’t arrested or convicted, you may still file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for your damages. Your lawyer can help gather evidence to prove impairment and negligence.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a drugged driving accident in Florida?

Florida law generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, it’s important to act quickly, as evidence may become harder to obtain over time.

What damages can I recover in a drugged driving accident case?

Victims of drugged driving accidents may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage

Do I need an attorney to handle my drugged driving accident claim?

While you’re not required to have a lawyer, working with an attorney increases your chances of receiving full and fair compensation. An attorney can handle negotiations, gather evidence, and advocate for your rights in court if necessary.

Let Us Fight For You Today!

At Paulsen Law Group, our Tampa Bay personal injury lawyers can conduct a thorough investigation into your accident, gather key evidence and develop an aggressive and personalized strategy to help you get the monetary assistance necessary to make a full recovery from your injuries. We are confident we can successfully handle your case that we offer our clients contingency fee representation – meaning that you don’t have to pay us anything unless we win! So let us represent you while you recover from your injuries.

Don't face this alone! Our legal team is here to fight for your rights. Call (888) 352-7180 now to contact us and discuss your case.