Colorado readers know that impaired driving is a dangerous threat to the safety of other motorists, but this type of behavior can include much more than just drunk driving. Impaired driving happens when a person is operating a vehicle while affected by something else, ultimately resulting in less-than-safe behavior behind the wheel.

Any type of impairment is dangerous and preventable, and victims of impaired driving have rights, no matter the specifics of the behavior that caused them harm. If you believe that your accident was the result of an impaired driver, you would be wise to seek an evaluation of your case to better understand the legal options available to you.

The sources of impairment

Impairment of all kinds is the source of approximately half of all car accidents. There are many type of behaviors that fall into this category, including the following:

• Distracted driving, including texting, talking to a passenger or simply not paying attention
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, including prescription medication
• Driving while too tired to be safe
• Operating a vehicle while suffering from a medical condition that could impact a driver’s ability to drive safely

Impairment does not just affect a driver’s physical capabilities. Impairment also affects a driver’s cognitive function, which impacts reaction times, decision-making skills and more. Impaired driving is not always blatantly obvious, but there are certain types of behaviors that could indicate that a person should not be driving, including swerving, driving at erratic speeds and failing to yield at intersections.

No matter what, a driver is responsible for his or her decision to get behind the wheel while impaired. Whether that person is too tired to drive, drunk, prone to distraction or incapable of driving safely, every individual is accountable for poor decisions made behind the wheel and the consequences of accidents they cause.

Proving impaired driving

It is not always easy to prove that you are a victim of impaired driving. It is beneficial to first seek a complete evaluation of your case in order to understand the most appropriate course of action. If you do have grounds for a civil claim, you have the right to pursue every avenue available to you in order to secure the compensation you need for a full and fair recovery.

The aftermath of a car accident is not easy to navigate, and you may find it beneficial to reach out for support and guidance as soon as possible. You have no time to lose in protecting your interests.