Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a dangerous behavior that puts the driver, passengers, and other road users at risk of severe injury or death. It is especially true when it comes to large commercial vehicles like trucks, which can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and cause significant damage in a collision.
You should hire a Houston truck accident Lawyer if you have encountered a truck accident due to another driver’s negligence. If you have been injured in a truck accident caused by an impaired driver, it is vital to understand your legal options and seek the help of an experienced truck accident lawyer duluth ga.
Does the use of drugs and alcohol cause a significant impact on truck accidents?
First, it is crucial to understand the prevalence of drug and alcohol use among truck drivers. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), alcohol is a factor in approximately 10% of all large truck crashes. In comparison, the use of drugs is a factor in about 28% of crashes.
These statistics indicate that substance abuse is a significant problem in the trucking industry. There are several reasons why drug and alcohol use may be more common among truck drivers. One reason is the high levels of stress and fatigue that many drivers experience on the job.
Long hours on the road, combined with the demands of meeting tight delivery schedules, can lead some drivers to alcohol or drugs to cope. Additionally, some drivers may be tempted to use drugs or alcohol to stay awake or alert on long drives.
What are the risks of driving while being impaired by drugs or alcohol?
The risks of driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol are significant. Alcohol and drugs can affect a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making it much more challenging to operate a large commercial vehicle safely.
The risk of a crash increases significantly when a driver is impaired, and the consequences of a truck accident can be severe. Large trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making them much more likely to cause severe damage and injuries in a collision.
To address the problem of drug and alcohol use in the trucking industry, the FMCSA has implemented many regulations and programs. For example, the agency has implemented a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol use by truck drivers. Drivers who test positive for alcohol at a level of 0.04% or higher are not allowed to operate a commercial vehicle.
