Our community has been at battle with the scourge of heroin. It has has affected our lives in so many ways. Our children are dying at explosive rates that exceed fatalities from automobile accidents!
Violent crimes are on the rise, a likely result of desperate heroin addicts who need a quick fix. Sexually transmitted disease, including Hep C and HIV, are also on the rise due to the amount of people spreading blood-borne diseases through sharing dirty needles.
If you read the local news, you will also find that car accidents are increasing due to the recklessness of drivers under the influence of controlled and illicit substances, including oxycodone and heroin.
Careful and defensive driving should be exercised by all of us – and being vigilant in identifying drivers who are under the influence of drugs must be maintained. When you see a driver swerving in and out of lanes, driving at excessive speeds, etc., you must avoid (as best you can) remaining near such drivers. Pull over to the side of the road, let them pass you, or turn off the street or roadway that you are on to avoid accidents.
If you are a pedestrian, you should never trust the judgement of any driver, especially in light of the amount of drivers who are driving under the influence of drugs. Wait that extra few seconds and let vehicles pass you whenever you are able to do so. Wait behind parked vehicles next to the crosswalk whenever possible. Playing it safe may protect you from serious personal injury or even death!