Is a Driver in Arizona Liable for Using Prescription Medication?

Understanding the legal implications of driving while using prescription medication in Arizona is beneficial for victims who have been injured in accidents involving impaired drivers. Each state has rules that they abide by to ensure protection, but with the help of a Phoenix DUI lawyer, victims get additional support in maximizing their personal injury claim.

Zanes Law Firm aims to provide informative answers to frequently asked questions surrounding the topic of liability for using prescription medication while driving in Arizona. Being aware of your rights and legal alternatives will help you navigate the complexities of your case with ease and understanding.

Read on to learn the intricacies of Arizona’s DUI laws, or consult with an experienced lawyer from our team who can provide strategic guidance and support in seeking compensation for your injuries.

Is a Driver in Arizona Liable for Using Prescription Medication?

As car accident lawyers in Phoenix, we see many different variations of impaired driving cases. A driver may be held liable for using prescription medication if it impairs their ability to operate a vehicle safely. Impaired driving laws in Arizona encompass not only alcohol and illegal drugs but also prescription medications that can affect a person’s cognitive and motor skills. 

If a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle is compromised due to the effects of prescription medication, they can be held responsible for any accidents or injuries they cause as a result.

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How Can Prescription Medication Impair a Person’s Ability to Drive?

Many prescription drugs have side effects that can affect cognitive function, reaction times, vision, and coordination. It is essential for individuals taking prescription medication to read the labels and follow instructions regarding driving or operating heavy machinery. 

If a driver using prescription medicines fails to heed these warnings and causes an accident due to impaired driving, they can be held accountable for their actions. A Phoenix personal injury lawyer can help you with that.

What Should I Do if I Am Involved in an Accident With a Driver Who Is Impaired by Prescription Medication?

If you are involved in an accident with a driver who is impaired by prescription medication, it is crucial to take the following steps:

1. Seek immediate medical attention for yourself and others involved in the accident.
2. Report the accident to law enforcement, providing them with accurate details about the collision.
3. Gather evidence at the scene, such as witness remarks, photographs of the collision scene, and record visible signs of impairment exhibited by the other driver.

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How Can I Prove that the Other Driver Was Impaired by Prescription Medication?

Proving that the other driver was impaired by prescription medication requires gathering evidence to support your claim. Obtain a copy of the police report, which may contain information about the driver’s medication use. Even if they have a prescription for it, under Arizona Law A.R.S. 28-1381 (A) (3), a driver can be liable for an auto wreck. 

Additionally, seeking expert testimony from medical professionals can help establish a connection between the driver’s impairment and the effects of the prescription medication they were taking. If you hire the right legal firm, both of these factors will be initiated by your legal team. 

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Can I Hold the Driver Liable for My Injuries if They Were Impaired by Prescription Medication?

Yes, you can hold the driver liable for your injuries if they were impaired by prescription medication and caused the accident.  According to impaired driving laws in Arizona, you need to establish negligence and causation to file a successful personal injury claim.

Once you’ve demonstrated that the driver had a duty of care, breached that duty by driving while impaired, and that their impairment directly caused the accident and your resulting injuries, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and possibly punitive damages.

What if the Impaired Driver Claims They Were Following Prescribed Instructions?

Even if the impaired driver claims they were following prescribed instructions, they can still be held responsible for any negligence or recklessness. While individuals have the right to follow prescribed medication instructions, they also have a duty to ensure their ability to operate a vehicle safely is not compromised. 

The concept of “informed consent” does not absolve the driver of responsibility if their impairment leads to an accident. Their actions will be evaluated based on whether they exercised reasonable care and acted responsibly under the circumstances.

Should I Hire an Arizona Car Accident Lawyer if I Have Been Injured by an Impaired Driver?

It is highly recommended to seek the assistance of an experienced Arizona car accident lawyer if you have been injured by an impaired driver. These cases can be legally complex, and having a skilled personal injury law firm like Zanes Law by your side can significantly strengthen your case and increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation. 

Understanding the legal rights and options surrounding liability for using prescription medication while driving is the foundation to creating a strong defense. Consult with our experienced Arizona impaired driver car accident lawyer today to protect your rights and seek the justice you deserve. Contact us today.

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