Opinion Article, J Addict Behav Ther Rehabil Vol: 12 Issue: 4

Drugged Driving: A Growing Concern for Road Safety

Chuung Himai^*

¹School of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan

*Corresponding Author: Chuung Himai,
School of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
E-mail: chung.hima612@gmail.com

Received date: 24 July, 2023, Manuscript No. JABTR-23-112499;

Editor assigned date: 26 July, 2023, PreQC No. JABTR-23-112499 (PQ);

Reviewed date: 09 August, 2023, QC No. JABTR-23-112499;

Revised date: 16 August, 2023, Manuscript No. JABTR-23-112499 (R);

Published date: 24 August, 2023, DOI: 10.4172/2324-9005.1000057

Citation: Himai C (2023) Drugged Driving: A Growing Concern for Road Safety. J Addict Behav Ther Rehabil 12:4.

Description

Drugged driving the act of operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs, poses a significant threat to road safety. As the legalization of marijuana and the misuse of prescription drugs continue to rise, it is crucial to address this growing public health concern to ensure safer roads for everyone. Drugged driving, often overshadowed by its counterpart, drunk driving, has become an increasing concern for road safety in recent years. While alcohol-impaired driving remains a prevalent issue, the misuse of drugs, including prescription medications and illicit substances, is contributing to a significant portion of road accidents and fatalities. This manuscript aims to shed light on the complex issue of drugged driving, highlighting its causes, consequences, detection methods, and preventive measures.

Understanding the prevalence of drugged driving is essential to address this issue effectively. Data from surveys, law enforcement agencies, and research studies reveal alarming statistics:

With the legalization of marijuana in many regions, the incidence of driving under the influence of cannabis has surged. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in marijuana, impairs cognitive and motor functions, making it a major concern for road safety. The misuse of prescription medications, especially opioids and sedatives, has led to a rise in drugged driving cases. These drugs can cause drowsiness, impaired coordination, and slowed reaction times. The use of illicit drugs, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and hallucinogens, also contributes to drugged driving incidents. These substances can severely impair judgment and coordination.

Causes of drugged driving

Lack of awareness: Many individuals underestimate the impairing effects of drugs, particularly prescription medications, and may not realize the danger of driving while under their influence.

Social acceptance: Perceptions around drug use and driving vary among different populations. In some cases, there may be a lack of awareness about the risks associated with drugged driving.

Accessibility: Easy access to prescription drugs and illicit substances contributes to their misuse, increasing the likelihood of impaired driving.

Peer influence: Pressure from friends or peers to engage in risky behaviors, including driving under the influence, can lead to drugged driving incidents.

Prevention of drugged driving

Preventing drugged driving requires a multifaceted approach, involving education, enforcement, and intervention:

Public awareness: Increasing public awareness about the dangers of drugged driving is crucial. Educational campaigns can inform individuals about the impairing effects of drugs and the consequences of drugged driving.

Legislation: Stricter laws and penalties for drugged driving can act as a deterrent. This includes establishing legal limits for drug concentration in the bloodstream, similar to alcohol limits.

Law enforcement training: Training law enforcement officers to recognize drugged driving and increasing the number of DREs can improve detection and enforcement efforts.

Treatment and rehabilitation: Providing support and treatment options for individuals struggling with substance abuse can reduce the likelihood of drugged driving incidents.

Conclusion

Drugged driving is a pressing public health concern that demands attention and action. With the legalization of marijuana and the ongoing opioid crisis, the issue of drugged driving is more relevant than ever. Preventing drugged driving requires a concerted effort from governments, law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and the community at large. By addressing the causes, consequences, and detection methods of drugged driving, we can work towards safer roads and a reduction in the number of drugged driving incidents and their devastating impact on society.