Bridge Safety In Washington And Prescription Drug Abuse, Part 2

Ross Reynolds
08/02/2007 at 12:00 p.m.

The interstate bridge collapse during rush hour in Minneapolis yesterday plunged 50 cars into the Mississippi River, killing at least four. 79 people have been hospitalized. Could it happen here? How closely do inspectors check our bridges – vulnerable structures like the Alaskan Way Viaduct and the 520 bridge? Is bridge safety part of the road improvement tax package on the ballot in November?

Also, as we told you yesterday, a recent study of drug abuse in King County shows there were more deaths from prescription drugs than from cocaine or heroin last year. Today we conclude a two part inquiry into the severity of prescription drug abuse. Have you, or someone you know, gotten hooked on prescription drugs? How did you deal with it? Are you a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist? How do you deal with the tricky issue of pain management with addictive drugs?

Guests:
Paula Hammond is the interim Secretary of Transportation for Washington State. She was appointed to the position last month. She's worked for the Department of Transportation since 1979.
Dr. Jim Walsh is the Medical Director of Addiction Recovery Services at Swedish in Ballard.