Drugged Driving Is More Common Than Drunk Driving, But What About Medical Malpractice Causes By Drugs Over Alcohol?

Driving under the influence is illegal in all 50 states. Whether that is drunk driving or what is known as drugged driving, or driving under the influence of drugs. A recent report just came out and found that drugged driving has now overtaken drunk driving as the number one cause of fatal motor vehicle accidents. According to the study, 43% of drivers killed had drugs in their system, whereas 37% had alcohol in their system. This is the first time this has ever been found to occur.

There have been medical malpractice cases which have had the provider make serious medical errors while under the influence of alcohol. These are dangerous mistakes as alcohol and affect a person’s inhibitions and judgment, making mistakes more likely and more deadly. There have also been medical malpractice cases involving drugs. Yes, drugs. This includes drunks such as marijuana, but also cocaine.

Yes, cocaine.

Why?

Because cocaine is a stimulant. This means that it can help keep a provider awake. We all know that residents work countless hours and make surgeons work hours on end. Sleep deprivation is very common in the medical field, and ways to enhance alertness or keep providers awake is necessary. Most turn to coffee or energy drinks, but unfortunately some turn to drugs that are stimulants.

It would be interesting for a study to be performed to see how drugs and medical malpractice are increasing and if they are more common than alcohol and medical malpractice. I would imagine that it is also increasing and becoming more of a problem with medical malpractice.