Truck Accident Attorney

Drug and Alcohol Abuse among Truckers

18-wheeler operators are responsible for more than just their cargo. They are also responsible for operating their vehicle in a way that does not put other individuals who are on the road at risk. When truck drivers use drugs or consume alcohol and then operate their trucks, it puts not just them at risk but everyone on the road at risk.

Alcohol

A driver does not have to be drunk to have his or her driving ability impaired. Even with a low blood alcohol concentration, a driver’s reaction time and reflexes are impaired. The Federal government recognizes that there is an increased threat to safety due to the inebriated operation of 18-wheelers. Because of this, the legal limit BAC for truck drivers or operators is .04 rather than the customary .08 for drivers of ordinary vehicles.

Despite this, between 1 and 3 percent of all 18-wheeler accidents involve alcohol. This accounts for between 46 and 140 fatalities each year. The number of accidents involving alcohol used to be higher but harsh enforcement and stiff penalties have lessened the number of accidents that involve alcohol.

Marijuana

Many people believe that drugged driving is less of a risk to their safety and the safety of others than drunk driving. In reality, this is patently untrue. While alcohol may affect a person’s reflexes and reaction time for a few hours, marijuana can affect a person’s perception, concentration, and reaction time for up to 24 hours after it is smoked. This is a much longer period than alcohol.

The National Transportation Board (NTB) has found that 12.5% of fatal truck accidents had marijuana use as a partial cause.

Methamphetamines

In a recent survey, 85% of truck drivers said methamphetamines were readily available at truck stops. Methamphetamines are used to allow truck drivers to stay awake longer and move their cargo to its destination a bit faster.

If you have been injured in an accident involving an 18-wheeler, contact the truck accident lawyers of Williams Kherkher at 1-866-950-9000 to determine your legal options and to schedule your initial consultation.