Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is dangerous and illegal for any driver, but DUI becomes even more dangerous when a driver is behind the wheel of an 80,000 pound semi-truck and driving at highway speeds. Because their vehicles are so much larger than other passenger vehicles and the chance of injury in an accident is so high, truck drivers are held to a higher standard of care when it comes to safe driving. While the legal blood alcohol limit for regular drivers is .08%, a commercial truck driver violates the law at .04%. However, many truck drivers continue to drink alcohol and then get behind the wheel. In addition, many drivers use illegal substances while they are driving, as well. If you have suffered injury in a DUI truck accident, an experienced Corinth truck accident lawyer can help you hold that driver responsible for their actions.
Substance Abuse among Truck Drivers
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that truck drivers use controlled substances more than alcohol before they drive. Specifically, many truck drivers become addicted to stimulants due to trying to stay awake and alert for long hours and days on the road. Some truck drivers use drugs like marijuana to help pass the time and due to boredom.
IIHS research shows that, during one study, 5% of commercial truck drivers tested positive for controlled substances or alcohol. The top four substances found in one study were as follows:
Amphetamines
Cannabis
Cocaine
Alcohol
Any of these substances can have an adverse effect on a driver and should never be used while driving. Victims of DUI truck accidents should call an attorney for help as soon as possible.
Contact a Corinth truck accident attorney for a free consultation
If you have suffered injury in a DUI truck accident, or have lost a loved in a DUI truck accident, you may likely be entitled to a significant amount of compensation for your losses. The truck accident attorneys at Shane Smith Law are dedicated to help DUI truck accident victims recover, so do not hesitate to call our office today at (980) 246-2656 to schedule your free consultation.