Truck drivers are important when it comes to transporting goods over long distances, ensuring industries remain connected and functional. However, this job often requires driving for long hours.
Truck drivers may use drugs to stay alert and awake to meet tight deadlines. Using drugs and operating a vehicle, let alone a truck, is illegal as it can impact a person’s ability to drive safely.
If you’ve been hit by a truck driver who was under the influence of drugs, it’s important to act quickly. Seek the help of an experienced truck accident lawyer to file a compensation claim.
This article will specifically cover how drug impairment leads to truck accidents.
Effects of Drug Impairment on Driving Abilities
Operating trucks requires a high level of alertness. Different substances, whether prescription, recreational, or over-the-counter drugs, affect a driver’s mental and physical capabilities. This makes it dangerous for drivers to operate a large vehicle.
The common drugs truck drivers use include
- Marijuana
- Amphetamines
- Alcohol
- Cocaine
Let’s look at the effects of drug impairment on truck driving and how this causes accidents.
Slow Reaction Time
One of the biggest effects of drug use is reduced reaction time. Trucks take more time to slow down because of their size and weight.
When a driver’s reaction time is reduced, it can mean a great difference between avoiding and causing a collision. Drugs like marijuana slow down reflexes. Stimulants like cocaine may cause overconfidence, leading to reckless driving.
Distorted Perception
Drugs can cloud judgment, distorting perception. This makes it more difficult for drivers to assess road conditions clearly or react appropriately in emergencies.
Impaired drivers may also find it difficult to stay in their lane. Unfortunately, this could lead to
- Swerving in traffic
- Hugging the center lane
- Driving unnecessarily slowly
- Tailgating
Such dangerous behaviors slow down traffic and could lead to crashes.
Fatigue and Increased Drowsiness
Certain drugs, including prescription drugs and sedatives, induce extreme tiredness and microsleep. These brief episodes of sleep only last a couple of seconds.
A momentary loss of alertness can cause truck drivers to veer off the road or collide with another vehicle. Impaired drivers are more likely to misjudge their alertness levels, thus increasing the risk of accidents.
Legal Implications of Truck Accidents Due to Drug Impairment
Federal regulations set by the Department of Transportation (DOT) have zero tolerance for drug and alcohol use among commercial truck drivers. The department requires mandatory drug testing for truck drivers, including post-accident tests.
After an accident, drivers with a commercial driver’s license must undergo an alcohol test within 8 hours and a full drug test within 32 hours.
Drivers found operating a truck under the influence of drugs face hefty fines, criminal charges, and even jail time. Trucking companies can also be found liable for accidents caused by such drivers.
If the company did not adequately enforce policies, neglected to monitor drivers, or failed to provide sufficient support, it could be sued for negligence. This can lead to expensive lawsuits.
Conclusion
All in all, drug impairment among truck drivers is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences. These drugs slow down reaction time and distort perception, which results in accidents. Promoting awareness can significantly mitigate these risks and ensure safe roads for everyone.
