Taking Legal Action After a Crash Caused by an Intoxicated Commercial Truck Driver

 Posted on March 16, 2023 in Truck Accidents

Few would argue that driving a semi-truck across the country is not a physically and emotionally taxing job. However, commercial truck drivers still have an ethical responsibility and a legal obligation to drive safely. Car accidents involving large commercial trucks often lead to catastrophic injuries and fatalities.

One of the most concerning issues involving commercial truck accidents is the prevalence of drug and alcohol use use behind the wheel. If you or a loved one were involved in a commercial truck accident and you suspect that the truck driver may have been intoxicated, consult with a truck accident injury lawyer right away. You may be entitled to restitution.

Studies Suggest Truck Drivers May Use Drugs and Alcohol to Cope with Work Stress

One of the hardest parts about being a commercial truck driver is the unusual work schedule. Drivers often drive for long hours and must find time to sleep whenever they can. Their work schedules may change significantly from week to week, making it difficult to maintain a regular sleep-wake rhythm. Unfortunately, some drivers cope with this issue by using drugs or alcohol.

One study found that just under 30 percent of truck drivers admit to using illicit substances, including methamphetamine and cocaine. These drugs stimulate the central nervous system, helping drivers feel awake and alert. However, these drugs can also impair reasoning and functioning, increasing the risk of an accident. Another study found that alcohol abuse is common in the trucking industry, with 22 percent of truckers meeting criteria for alcohol misuse. An international study of drug and alcohol use by truck drivers found that the frequency of positive alcohol tests in the U.S. is 12.5 percent.

Legal Options for Individuals Hurt in Commercial Truck Accidents Caused by Intoxication

Driving a large commercial truck while intoxicated is reckless and unlawful, and drivers who cause accidents while intoxicated should be held accountable. A personal injury claim or wrongful death claim is often the best way to pursue justice and recover financial compensation for a commercial truck crash caused by driver negligence. Compensation may be available for medical expenses resulting from the crash injuries, lost income, lost earning capacity, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and other damages.

Contact our Chicago Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers

If you or someone close to you was harmed in a commercial truck accident, contact our Cook County truck crash injury attorneys to explore your legal options. You may be able to recover compensation for your financial losses as well and the physical and mental suffering you experienced because of the crash. Call our office at 708-888-2160 for a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6614564/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6614564/

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-drug-truckdrivers/drug-use-high-among-commercial-truck-drivers-study-idUSBRE99O0T520131025