Last week, a suspected distracted and impaired driver nearly hit a firefighter in Lawton. According to KSWO ABC News Channel Seven, the incident happened on Northwest 31st Street and Ferris Avenue. His vehicle hopped a curb and crashed through a fence. Initial witness reports indicate that the driver appeared to be either slumped over behind the wheel or having some type of seizure prior to the crash. When first responders went to offer assistance, he was reportedly huffing a can of compressed air.
Impaired Driver Tries to Flee Scene
Upon seeing police officers, he tried to flee the scene by putting his vehicle in reverse, nearly running over a firefighter in the process. Thankfully, a police officer was able to break the passenger side window and remove the keys from the vehicle’s ignition. The suspect was arrested, and as a precaution, taken to the hospital before being transported to the Lawton City Jail.
Drugs and Driving Don’t Mix
While we typically think of impaired driving as being alcohol related, there are a variety of substances, both legal and illegal that can land drivers in jail. First of all, operating a vehicle under the influence of any type of illegal controlled substance is illegal. Not only can suspects face charges for possession, they can also still face driving under the influence (DUI) charges. These charges carry the same penalties as driving while intoxicated (DWI). Even driving a car under certain legally prescribed medications can land you in jail for a DUI charge, so it’s important to read medication labels carefully. Listed below are just a few substances that can impact a driver’s ability to navigate roadways safely.
Illegal Substances Behind The Wheel
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Huffed aerosols
- Ecstasy
- Amphetamines
- Cocaine
- LSD
- Benzodiazepines
- Opiates
When to Contact a Car Accident Attorney
After any kind of car accident due to somebody else’s dangerous, impaired, distracted or negligent behavior, it’s a good idea to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer about your options. You could be in the hospital and out of work for who knows how long, and you need somebody on your side.
If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one due to an alcohol impaired or drugged driver, contact the skilled team at the Altman Legal Group at (940) 761-4000 for an immediate free consultation today.