Truck accidents can occur for many reasons, including unqualified drivers, driver error, or problems with the load. However, accidents should never occur because the driver made the irresponsible decision to drink or do drugs and then get behind the wheel. When a driver is responsible for up to 80,000 pounds of a heavy machine and cargo, they should not endanger others’ lives after drinking or doing drugs.
If you were injured in a truck accident you suspect was caused by a drunk or drugged driver, Salango Law, PLLC can help fight for the justice you deserve. Call us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights to hold irresponsible parties accountable for the harm they’ve caused.
Commercial Driving and Drug and Alcohol Impairment Laws
In most states and for most drivers, anything over a 0.08% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is illegal. However, commercial drivers are subject to a much lower legal limit of 0.04%. Federal and state authorities recognize the grave danger that commercial drivers can pose to others when they drink and drive, so they heavily discourage drinking by setting the limit much lower. One or two drinks may be enough to exceed this threshold. It is also illegal in West Virginia to drive while impaired by drugs.
Effects of Drugs and Alcohol on Driving
Drugs and alcohol can profoundly impact the ability of a motorist to operate their vehicle safely. This is especially true when operating a much larger commercial vehicle. Some of the common effects associated with drug and alcohol use on driving include the following:
- Slowed reaction time: One of the biggest dangers of drinking or doing drugs is that it can slow the user’s reaction time. Commercial trucks already have longer stopping times due to their size, so any additional delay can drastically increase the likelihood and intensity of accidents.
- Blurred vision: Individuals who drink or do drugs may have blurry or double vision. This can prevent them from seeing potential hazards, leading them to crash into them or overcorrect when they notice them belatedly.
- Reduced focus and awareness: Drugs and alcohol can take a driver’s focus off the critical task of driving. Drugs and alcohol can also dull senses so that they are not as aware of what is happening around them.
- Impaired judgment: Drugs and alcohol lower users’ inhibitions, which can lead to dangerous decision-making, such as speeding, running red lights, or moving through multiple lanes of traffic, which can cause deadly accidents.
Federal Trucking Regulations Related to Drug and Alcohol Use
In addition to prohibiting impaired driving, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has implemented testing requirements. Trucking companies are required to conduct drug and alcohol testing at the following times:
- Before hiring
- At random
- After certain accidents
- Upon reasonable suspicion of drug or alcohol impairment
- When returning to duty after a positive test result
Trucking companies must maintain records that they have completed these tests and addressed concerns.
Contact Our Truck Accident Lawyers for Legal Assistance
If you were injured in a truck accident caused by driver impairment, contact an experienced truck accident lawyer from Salango Law, PLLC for help. Call (304) 342-0512 to arrange your free consultation.