It is always dangerous when any person gets behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. However, when an intoxicated person gets behind the wheel of a commercial truck that weighs up to 80,000 pounds, the risks become even greater. There is no excuse for truck drivers that operate their vehicle while impaired. Our Fort Lauderdale DUI truck accident lawyer is committed to helping accident victims that have been hurt by such reckless actions and will hold the appropriate party liable for paying damages.
Our Fort Lauderdale DUI Truck Accident Lawyer Explains the Legal Limit for Truckers
Most people know that the legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) for drivers of passenger vehicles is 0.08 percent. However, due to the fact that intoxicated truckers pose such a great danger to anyone they share the roads with, the law requires that they have a much lower BAC level.
Under the regulations set out by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), truck drivers must never operate a vehicle with a BAC level that is over 0.04 percent. Not only will trucks be arrested and charged with a DUI if they operate a truck with a BAC level higher than this, but you can also use an elevated BAC to prove your accident claim.
Our Fort Lauderdale DUI Truck Accident Lawyer Explains Drug Use Among Truckers
To many, it is inconceivable that a truck driver would operate their vehicle while under the influence of either legal or illegal drugs. Unfortunately, it is a very common occurrence. Truck drivers, just like others, sometimes suffer from substance abuse problems. Additionally, some truckers think certain types of drugs will help them stay awake behind the wheel, which will help them to stay on the road longer and meet their tight deadlines. Of course, this is not true and will only increase the risk of the trucker being involved in a crash. Some of the most commonly used drugs by truckers include:
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamines
- Prescription medication, such as Adderall
- Marijuana
Regardless of the type of drug a truck driver uses, any time a truck driver uses a drug while behind the wheel, it is extremely dangerous behavior.
Our Fort Lauderdale DUI Truck Accident Lawyer will Hold Trucking Companies Liable
It is easy to assume that when a truck driver uses drugs, the trucker is the one to hold liable. While this is possible, you may also be able to hold the trucking company liable, as well. The FMCSA requires trucking companies to conduct random drug and alcohol tests among their drivers at certain times. If the trucking company failed to administer those tests, hired a driver with a known history of DUIs, or failed to report a driver for failing a test, they can also be held liable.
Our DUI Truck Accident Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale will Advise You of Your Legal Options
Driving under the influence is extremely reckless behavior and when truck drivers engage in it, our Fort Lauderdale DUI truck accident lawyer at Rosen Injury Law, P.A. is dedicated to holding them liable for paying the damages you need. If you have been injured or you have lost someone, call us today at 954-787-1500 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
