Legal Options After Being Hit by a Driver Under the Influence of Marijuana in Cook County

 Posted on June 24, 2022 in Auto Accidents

Marijuana is now legal in Illinois for adults aged 21 and over. However, driving under the influence of marijuana is still against the law. Cannabis flower and THC products have a major effect on a person’s cognitive function. Studies show that it can distort a person’s perception, decrease coordination, and slow reaction time. It is, therefore, no surprise that drugged driving is associated with a higher risk of being in a car accident. One study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that cannabis-related auto accidents have doubled in the last 20 years.

If you or a loved one were hurt in a crash caused by a driver who was intoxicated by marijuana, it is important to know your legal options.

Car Crashes Caused by High Drivers

Public opinion about cannabis has changed dramatically in recent years. However, this does not mean that marijuana use is without risk. People who drive while “high” put their own lives and the lives of others in danger. In Illinois, those who drive with greater than five nanograms or more of THC per ml of blood are at risk of DUI charges. However, criminal charges against a drugged driver do not provide any restitution to victims.

Accidents caused by intoxicated drivers can lead to severe and fatal injuries. Victims may find themselves facing mounting medical expenses and other financial losses. Fortunately, many drugged driving accident victims may be entitled to compensation for their financial losses through a civil claim.

Illinois Injury and Death Claims

If you were hurt in a crash caused by a driver intoxicated by marijuana, you have the right to seek monetary compensation for your damages. Any civil claim you bring against the driver will be separate from criminal charges that the driver faces. You may be entitled to compensation for your past and future medical expenses including medical care, medications, physical therapy, and more. You could also recover compensation for any work you had to miss due to your injuries. Pain and suffering, lost quality of life, mental anguish, disfigurement, and other non-economic damages may also be compensable.

If your family member was killed in a collision caused by a drugged driver, no legal action can undo the pain and grief you are experiencing. However, you may be able to recover compensation for funeral and burial expenses, lost financial support, lost services provided by the deceased, and other damages through a wrongful death claim.

Contact an Elmhurst Car Accident Injury Lawyer

Victims of drugged driving may be entitled to compensation for their damages. To learn more, contact the experienced Bensenville personal injury attorneys at Kaiser Law. Call 630-274-4400 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.bu.edu/sph/news/articles/2021/car-crash-deaths-involving-cannabis-on-the-rise/