Truck Driver Drug & Alcohol Abuse

Per statistics, in 44% of traffic accidents involving fatalities, a driver was driving impaired. Many experts believe there are at least 200,000 truck drivers on the road today with substance abuse problems. A recent study on the rate of drug and alcohol use among U.S. truck drivers revealed 12.5% of truck drivers tested positive for alcohol abuse. Worldwide, the 2013 average rate of amphetamine use among truckers was 8%. Many individuals think this number may be even higher due to doctor shopping, drug test cheating, companies that hire without background checks, and truck drivers who "disappear" after crashes.

Have you been injured in a trucking accident? Contact a firm that has recovered billions of dollars.

Laws Concerning Truck Drivers & Trucking Companies

Truck drivers are held to a higher standard. For example, commercial drivers can be charged with DUI with a BAC level of only 0.04. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration even states that truck drivers cannot have used alcohol within four hours of their shift. Trucking companies are required to have individuals undergo alcohol / drug screening prior to hiring, as well as ongoing testing policies. For example, if a truck company has suspicions that a driver has been using alcohol or a controlled substance, that driver should be screened. After a fatal truck crash, a truck driver should also submit to drug and alcohol testing.

In short, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires that a motor carrier must:

Provide educational materials
Establish a company drug and alcohol policy
Obtain the required, signed release and permission forms
Designate a company official to run their drug / alcohol program
Be aware of which employees must be tested for alcohol / drugs
Train driver supervisors to administer reasonable suspicion testing
Know the procedures when an employee tests positive for alcohol or drugs
Establish a contract with a drug and alcohol collection service and medical review officer

Understanding Federal Trucking Regulations

Federal trucking regulations are put in place to keep motorists safe. They outline rules on everything from the height and weight of a vehicle to the number of hours a trucker is permitted to drive.

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Drug & Alcohol Testing for Truck Drivers

As stated above, truck drivers must submit to random tests for the presence of drugs or alcohol in their system. Truck companies have the authority to administer drug and alcohol tests to drivers where there is reasonable suspicion regarding the driver's conduct. Those drivers who refuse to submit to a test may be barred from driving. Trucking companies are required to randomly test 10% of their drivers each year for drugs and alcohol use while on duty. However, there is concern after a recent Congressional study showed insight into lax testing protocols and the ease with which drivers could falsify results.

Recover the Resources You Need. Contact a Truck Accident Attorney.

After an accident involving a big rig, your number one priority should be recovering. Our firm can investigate the details surrounding your accident and can determine whether or not drugs or alcohol were involved. When your life and health have been so adversely impacted, you should not settle for less than you deserve. The truth is you need a tough advocate to help you!

Contact Arnold & Itkin today to request a free consult.