Tiger Woods is just one of many Floridians too impaired by prescription drugs to safely drive says Boca car accident lawyer Joe Osborne.

A driver can become dangerous for many reasons, including being impaired by prescription drugs. One of Florida’s more famous residents, Tiger Woods, was recently arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs near his home on Jupiter Island, reports CNBC. Boca car accident lawyer Joe Osborne says accidents in Florida are caused every day by drugged drivers.

Woods, who had been ranked as the world’s best golfer early in his career, blamed an unexpected reaction to prescribed medications for his arrest. He’s had four back surgeries, most recently earlier this month to relieve lingering back pain. Woods was arrested and later released according to the Palm Beach County Police.

A statement released by Woods’ spokesman stated that alcohol was not a factor but he apologized and added that he took full responsibility. He claimed he didn’t expect the mix of medications he was taking would have such a strong impact on him.

The police report states that Woods' Mercedes appeared to have "fresh damage" when he was found asleep at the wheel the morning of his arrest by an officer from the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office. Both tire rims on the driver's side had minor damage, the front and rear tires on that side of the vehicle were flat, there was damage to the bumpers and a tail light was out, reports CNN.

Woods was found on the side of the road, the car running, its brake lights illuminated and right turn signal flashing, according to the arrest report. The officer woke him up, his speech was slurred and he stated he didn’t know where he was. Woods reportedly told the officer he was taking several prescriptions. A Breathalyzer test showed no signs of alcohol use and he also took a urine test.

Woods is not alone when taking to the streets too drugged to drive.

1. Results of a 2010 nationwide study of fatal vehicle accidents show that prescription drug use is a greater hazard than illegal drugs. It found that about 47% of drivers who tested positive for drugs had used a prescription drug, compared to 37% of drivers who tested positive for marijuana and about 10% of drivers who had used cocaine, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The most common prescription drugs found were pain relievers.
2. The National Highway Transportation Safety Board states that for fatal vehicle accidents in 2009 in Florida, 42% of drivers were not tested for drugs. About 16% of those who were tested showed drug use or 239 of 1,485 drivers.

Woods’ situation is all too common. Many drivers may take to the road despite the fact they know they can’t safely drive because of prescription medication or their effect may come as a surprise. Either way it’s a dangerous situation that could result in serious injuries or deaths. Though Woods’ professional and personal lives have taken well publicized turns for the worse both he and everyone else on the roads on Jupiter Island that night are lucky no one was injured or killed after Woods got behind the wheel. Others are not so lucky.

If you or a loved one suffered an injury caused in a car accident involving a drugged driver, contact Boca car accident lawyer Joe Osborne at (561) 293-2600 or fill out this online contact form. You can discuss your case, how the law may apply and your best legal options to protect your rights and obtain compensation for your injuries.