Many of our Cincinnati area readers have probably heard the news reports regarding the explosion of heroin use in recent years. This extremely problematic issue seems to be affecting the entire country, but the discussion of this problem is usually part of how law enforcement and the criminal justice system can react. But, is heroin use leading to more car accidents in Cincinnati?
According to a recent report, the answer may very well be “yes.” The recent report detailed the findings of a toxicology analysis that took place in the wake of a deadly car accident that left four people deceased. One of the drivers, a 48-year-old man, was said to have had both heroin and fentanyl in his system at the time the accident occurred on September 1. The real concern? Law enforcement officials have noted that there appears to be a burgeoning trend of finding drivers who are under the influence of heroin.
This recent spate of heroin users taking to the roads should concern not only law enforcement officials, but also other drivers and their passengers. Similar to motorists who operate their vehicles while under the influence of alcohol, drivers who are impaired due to heroin use have the potential to cause catastrophic accidents and, like in the September 1 accident, fatalities.
Any Cincinnati area resident who has been injured in a car accident that was caused by an impaired driver may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit in order to attempt to secure financial compensation for their losses. Car accident victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. When dealing with such a difficult situation, it is often best to discuss the matter with an experienced attorney.
Source: Cincinnati.com, “Heroin to blame in crash that killed 4,” Terry DeMio, Nov. 2, 2015