Crash Caused by Driver Under the Influence of Medication

May 31,2016

Driving under the influence of medication is likely to blame for a crash that injured six people in Victorville last week. The driver of a Kia van, 22-year-old Vanessa Villalobos, was heading south on Third Avenue when she drifted into the northbound lane and crashed into a Kia sedan. She then ran a red light at the intersection of Third Avenue and Nisqualli Road and collided with a Chevy Tahoe.

Villalobos and two of the three children in the van with her sustained minor injuries. A woman in the Tahoe and two other children also suffered minor injuries. Authorities say the driver could be charged with child endangerment.

According to a 2013 survey conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 22% of drivers tested positive for illegal, prescription or over-the-counter drugs. A 2010 study of fatal crashes revealed that 46% of drivers under the influence of drugs had used a prescription drug. The most common prescription drugs used were Xanax, Vicodin, OxyContin and Valium.

Driving under the influence of medication can be extremely dangerous, depending on the type of drug being used. Most medications do not impair driving, but it’s important to check the product’s warning label or speak to your pharmacist if you are unsure of the side effects. Some medications can cause reactions that impair driving, such as drowsiness, blurred vision, nausea, inability to focus, and dizziness.

“If you are experiencing any side effects from medication, do not get behind the wheel. It’s also important to check the label of your medication for side effects that could take effect and any warning that discourages driving while using the medication,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today at (760) 777-7777 for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.