Hydrocodone and Driving Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Hydrocodone and Driving Lawsuit Overview

Hydrocodone and driving lawsuits involve legal claims filed by individuals injured in accidents caused by drivers impaired by hydrocodone, a Schedule II controlled substance and one of the most commonly prescribed pain medications.

The primary allegations center on drivers who operated vehicles while under the influence of hydrocodone, causing impairment that led to accidents resulting in injuries or death.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, in 2018, 12.6 million individuals admitted to driving under the influence of illicit drugs, while nearly 44 percent of drivers involved in fatal car crashes tested positive for drugs.

These lawsuits can be filed by injured drivers, passengers, pedestrians, or their legal representatives who were harmed by hydrocodone-impaired drivers.

Latest Hydrocodone and Driving Lawsuit Updates

• 2024 – A National Library of Medicine study confirmed that hydrocodone is one of the most common pain medications prescribed by clinicians and one of the most abused by patients, highlighting the ongoing risk of impaired driving incidents [1].
• 2018 – National Institute on Drug Abuse statistics revealed that 12.6 million individuals admitted to driving under the influence of illicit drugs, while 20.5 million drove under the influence of alcohol, demonstrating the widespread nature of impaired driving incidents [2].

FDA Reports and Statistics

The FDA classifies hydrocodone as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and dependence.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, nearly 44 percent of drivers involved in fatal car crashes tested positive for drugs in recent studies.

The National Library of Medicine reports that hydrocodone is one of the most commonly prescribed pain medications and one of the most abused by patients.

In 2018, 12.6 million individuals aged 16 or older admitted to driving under the influence of illicit drugs, while 20.5 million admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol.

These statistics underscore the significant public safety risk posed by hydrocodone-impaired driving.

Drugged Driving Facts

• Driving while under the influence of illicit drugs or misused prescription medications poses significant risks, akin to driving after consuming alcohol.
• In 2018, a staggering 20.5 million individuals aged 16 or older admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol within the previous year, while 12.6 million confessed to driving under the influence of illicit drugs.
• Despite the challenges in quantifying the exact impact of drugged driving on accidents, estimates indicate that nearly 44 percent of drivers involved in fatal car crashes tested positive for drugs.
• The effects of driving under the influence of substances like marijuana, opioids, and alcohol can be profound and potentially catastrophic.
• It’s crucial for individuals who use drugs or alcohol to develop proactive social strategies to prevent themselves from operating a vehicle while impaired, thereby safeguarding both themselves and others on the roadways.

Hydrocodone and Driving Injuries & Side Effects

Hydrocodone impairs driving ability by affecting the central nervous system, causing various side effects that compromise safe vehicle operation and can lead to serious accidents.

• Drowsiness and Sedation: Hydrocodone causes significant drowsiness that impairs alertness and reaction times essential for safe driving.
• Cognitive Impairment: The medication slows down mental faculties responsible for judgment and decision-making, affecting driving safety.
• Reduced Respiratory Function: Hydrocodone decreases breathing and heart rates, which can affect physical coordination and response times.
• Delayed Reaction Times: The drug significantly slows reaction times, preventing drivers from responding quickly to road hazards or traffic situations.

What is Hydrocodone?

Typically, hydrocodone is dispensed in combination with other substances, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to tackle intense pain requiring opioid intervention.

Additionally, it’s often paired with homatropine methylbromide to alleviate cough symptoms.

For cases of prolonged and intense pain, hydrocodone may also be administered in its extended-release form, known under various brand names like Zohydro ER.

Despite its therapeutic benefits, it’s crucial to recognize hydrocodone’s status as a controlled substance, classified as Schedule II in the United States.

This regulatory designation reflects its potential for misuse and underscores the importance of responsible prescribing and use under medical supervision.

According to 2022 study by the National Library of Medicine, Hydrocodone is one of the most common pain medications prescribed by clinicians and one of the most abused by patients. It is a relatively potent drug for moderate-to-severe pain control in postoperative patients, patients with trauma, or patients with cancer [1].

How Does Hydrocodone Affect the Body?

When hydrocodone is ingested orally, it embarks on a journey through your body’s pathways, starting from your mouth and throat.

Eventually, it reaches the liver, where it undergoes metabolism, transforming into various chemicals like codeine and morphine. These chemical alterations play a pivotal role in influencing bodily functions.

The impact of hydrocodone extends to the brain, where it exerts effects such as reducing breathing and heart rates while inducing a sense of relaxation.

Moreover, it slows down cognitive faculties responsible for judgment and decision-making, potentially endangering safe driving practices.

Also Read: Can I Drive on Adderall?

Do You Qualify for a Hydrocodone and Driving Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a hydrocodone and driving lawsuit if:

• You were injured in an accident caused by a driver under the influence of hydrocodone within the past 2-3 years (depending on your state’s statute of limitations).
• You experienced serious side effects including traumatic injuries, permanent disability, or a family member died as a result of the accident.
• The injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization.
• You can provide medical documentation and evidence linking your injuries to the hydrocodone-impaired driving incident.

Evidence Required for a Hydrocodone and Driving Lawsuit

To pursue a successful hydrocodone and driving lawsuit, you will need to gather comprehensive documentation and evidence:

• Medical Documentation: Complete medical records documenting your injuries, treatment, and ongoing medical care related to the accident.
• Police Reports: Official accident reports, DUI arrest records, and any evidence of the driver’s hydrocodone impairment.
• Toxicology Results: Blood or urine test results showing the presence of hydrocodone in the impaired driver’s system.
• Witness Statements: Testimony from witnesses who observed the accident or the driver’s impaired behavior.
• Expert Testimony: Medical and accident reconstruction experts who can establish the link between hydrocodone impairment and the accident.

Damages You Can Recover

Successful hydrocodone and driving lawsuits may result in compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Past and future medical costs for treatment of accident-related injuries.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to inability to work during recovery and ongoing treatment.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Punitive Damages: Additional compensation intended to punish the impaired driver for reckless conduct.

Hydrocodone Recall Information

While hydrocodone itself has not been recalled, the FDA has implemented stricter regulations for opioid medications due to abuse and safety concerns.

Hydrocodone remains classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, requiring special prescribing protocols and monitoring.

The FDA has issued numerous warnings about the risks of opioid medications, including their potential to cause impairment that affects driving ability.

Healthcare providers are required to warn patients about the risks of operating vehicles while taking hydrocodone.

Statute of Limitations for Hydrocodone and Driving Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a hydrocodone and driving lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 2 to 3 years from the date of the accident.

Some states may have different limitation periods for personal injury versus wrongful death claims.

Because evidence can deteriorate over time and witness memories fade, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible after the accident to ensure your rights are protected and to avoid missing critical filing deadlines.

Related Article: Am I Allowed to Drive After Taking CBD?

FAQs

1. Who can file a claim in a Hydrocodone and Driving lawsuit?

Individuals injured in accidents caused by a driver impaired by hydrocodone, or their legal representatives, may be eligible to file a claim. This includes drivers, passengers, or pedestrians harmed by a hydrocodone-impaired driver.

2. What compensation might plaintiffs receive in a Hydrocodone and Driving lawsuit?

Plaintiffs may receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other damages resulting from an accident caused by a hydrocodone-impaired driver.

3. How does hydrocodone impair driving ability?

Hydrocodone affects the central nervous system, causing drowsiness, dizziness, and delayed reaction times, which impair a driver’s ability to make quick decisions and safely control a vehicle.

4. Can someone be arrested for driving while taking hydrocodone?

Yes, if law enforcement determines that hydrocodone has impaired a person’s ability to drive safely, they can be arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), even if they have a valid prescription.

5. Is it legal to drive after taking prescription hydrocodone?

Driving after taking hydrocodone is only legal if the medication doesn’t compromise driving capabilities. If impairment is evident, it constitutes a punishable offense regardless of medical necessity.

6. What evidence is needed to prove hydrocodone impairment in an accident?

Evidence includes toxicology results, police reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert testimony establishing the connection between hydrocodone use and driving impairment.

7. How long do I have to file a hydrocodone and driving lawsuit?

The statute of limitations varies by state, typically ranging from 2 to 3 years from the date of the accident. It’s important to consult with an attorney immediately.

8. Can I sue if the driver had a valid prescription for hydrocodone?

Yes, having a valid prescription doesn’t exempt a driver from liability if they chose to drive while impaired by the medication.

9. What makes hydrocodone particularly dangerous for driving?

Hydrocodone is a Schedule II controlled substance that causes drowsiness, impairs judgment, slows reaction times, and reduces cognitive function essential for safe driving.

10. Do I need to pay attorney fees upfront for a hydrocodone and driving lawsuit?

Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront costs and attorney fees are only collected if your case is successful.

See all related personal injury and accident lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

Get Your Hydrocodone and Driving Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for hydrocodone and driving accident cases. With statute of limitations periods varying by state – typically only 2 to 3 years from the date of the accident – it’s crucial to act quickly to protect your rights.

Schmidt & Clark offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees – you pay nothing unless we win
• Payment only if we win your case through our contingency fee structure
• Experienced legal representation in personal injury and drugged driving cases

Don’t wait – contact Schmidt & Clark today to discuss your potential hydrocodone and driving lawsuit and learn about your legal options. Our experienced team is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.

References

1. https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/health-and-medicine/hydrocodone
2. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/drugged-driving