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The influence of drugs and alcohol in traffic fatalities

On Behalf of | Jan 11, 2023 | Blog, Car Accidents

The number of fatalities in motor vehicle accidents exceeds tens of thousands in the U.S. The numbers fluctuate often but have increased since 2020. In addition, the substance use of drugs or alcohol is a primary cause of fatal car accidents in Oklahoma.

Crash trends

Drugs and alcohol are the primary causes of over half of all car accidents, according to U.S. traffic safety authorities. The most prevalent drug substance is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an active component in marijuana, followed by alcohol. Many drivers also had multiple drugs combined into their system, which decreased their mental focus and reduced their driving abilities.

The number of fatalities from motor vehicle accidents increased by 10.5% from 2020 to 2021, according to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This percentage was reported as one of the highest annual increases recorded in history.

Personal losses

Each year in the U.S., the financial losses related to drug-and-alcohol-related crashes exceed billions of dollars. The losses for individual drivers include minor to severe injuries that lead to high-cost medical expenses. Disabled workers cannot return to work right away and have to obtain workers’ compensation insurance. The worst injured drivers often have long-term rehabilitation or physical therapy bills. Drivers who sue for compensation have to cover their legal and court fees.

Substance abuse remains the number-one reason for more than half of all motor vehicle accidents in the U.S. Marijuana and alcohol are the two most common drugs that reduce the drivers’ abilities on the road. The number of traffic fatalities has increased from 2020 to 2021. Moreover, the high costs of car crashes result in economic and personal losses for the drivers.

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