Kansas Trucking Accident Lawyers
Drug & Alcohol Abuse Among Truck Drivers
Driving Under the Influence In The Trucking Industry
Drug and alcohol abuse exists in every profession – and the trucking industry is no exception. Unfortunately, for a truck driver, driving under the influence greatly increases the risk of a deadly collision. Any measures we take to get intoxicated drivers off the road – whether truck drivers or otherwise – is a good thing.
Interestingly, truck drivers themselves are somewhat ambivalent on the issues of driving under the influence and mandatory drug and alcohol testing in their industry. The overwhelming consensus among truckers is that drug and alcohol abusers should obviously not be on the road. However, there is a good deal of frustration among truck drivers that drug testing standards and blood-alcohol measuring are not applied fairly in our society.
Here are some anonymous comments from truck drivers themselves:
"Get the drunks off the road-ways. Drink at home!! Let's start pulling the CDL's of these violator's!"
"I agree that the standard should be lowered to 0.08 nationwide. As a trucker I am allowed only 0.04, why not the rest of the drivers?"
"I believe the legal limit should be much lower. I am a truck driver and have seen many accidents that have been alcohol related and have personally lost relatives to such accidents."
Whether or not the standards are applied fairly, we still must take legal action against truck drivers who drive under the influence. While no one wants to condone non-commercial drivers who drive while intoxicated, we as a society just cannot afford to have a 12 ton truck being operated by a drunk driver or drug abuser.
Drug & Alcohol Regulations
Drug and alcohol testing are required for truck drivers as pre-employment screening, random screening, and following a fatal accident. The FMCSA's alcohol and drug testing rules apply to people and employers who operate commercial motor vehicles in commerce in any state. There are very specific responsibilities required of both the driver and trucking company.
The FMCSA offers a wealth of resources – both educational and legal – to educate the public on the many issues surrounding commercial trucking safety. They are an excellent resource if you are involved in a trucking accident dispute.
Nevertheless, the federal government can only do so much. If you have been injured as a result of a truck accident involving an intoxicated truck driver, contact us today for a consultation. We can go over the laws, guidelines, and regulations concerning shipping and trucking safety.
Involved in an accident with an 18 wheeler, tractor trailer or other commercial truck? Use the form below to contact the Kansas trucking accident attorneys of Knox, Johnson, Rockwell & Babbit to receive a free case review.
Kansas D.O.T.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Admin
Car/Truck Collision Info
Kansas Transportation Facts
