A Massachusetts man was recently pulled over in New Hampshire for driving the wrong way on Interstate 93. According to Patch.com, Joe Vargas drove from the Massachusetts border to Londonderry, New Hampshire, before he was finally stopped by New Hampshire State Police troopers.
Multiple people reported the wrong-way driver
The police received several calls about a driver going on the wrong on the interstate around midnight on Mar. 25. The troopers approached his vehicle from the north and stopped other vehicles as they drew closer to Vargas. The law enforcement officers decided to stop him before he reached a part of the highway where shoulder barriers make it hard for other vehicles to pull over. They stopped Vargas just south of Exit 4.
Vargas was driving while impaired
He was taken to jail, but released after his bail was posted. Vargas is charged with felony reckless driving, possession and transportation of narcotics and driving while intoxicated.
One-fifth of weekend drivers have drugs in their systems
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a roadside survey found 20 percent of nighttime weekend drivers tested positive for drugs. Drugs, along with alcohol, hurt a driver’s ability to drive safely because these substances impair judgement, coordination and reaction times. After using drugs or alcohol, people’s judgement becomes impaired which makes it harder to judge whether they are impaired.
Over-the-counter drugs can also impair driving ability
NHTSA states use of cocaine or methamphetamine causes drivers to act more aggressively and reckless. Even over-the-counter medication can pose a danger to drivers. Some medications cause drowsiness or other dangerous side effects.
If you were in an accident with an impaired driver, you can hold that driver accountable for his or her negligent actions. Serious injuries may require expensive treatment and recovery time. You do not need to suffer in silence for someone else’s poor choice. It may be time to explore your legal options.