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Drugs: A More Serious Issue than Alcohol for Texas Truck Drivers

Among passenger vehicles, alcohol use contributes to as many as 35 percent of accidents that involve the death of the driver. Fortunately, truck drivers are much less likely to drink and drive. While even one fatal accident is too many, in 2009, only 4 percent of fatally injured commercial truck drivers were found to be intoxicated.

Good News, Bad News

While it is good to know that very few truckers are drinking and driving, drug use among large truck drivers remains high. One four-state study revealed that illicit drug use in truckers was higher than alcohol. During the study, it was found that while only 0.2 percent of truckers tested positive for alcohol, nearly 5 percent of truck drivers were driving under the influence of an illegal drug. Drugs found in the systems of truckers included:

• Marijuana

• Cocaine

• Methamphetamines and/or amphetamines

In addition to these illegal drugs, many truckers have been found to be using prescription drugs and legal over the counter stimulants. Many of these drugs are taken in an attempt to increase alertness in tired drivers. One study uncovered that these drugs were found in at least 12 percent of tested drivers.

When a Drugged Truck Driver Causes an Accident in Texas

After an accident, all involved drivers will be tested for both drugs and alcohol. If it is found that the driver of the truck that hit you was under the influence of either, criminal charges will likely be filed. But, when you've been involved in an accident with a semi-truck in North Highland Hills, you may be wondering: what about your lawsuit? Will the positive test have an effect on the outcome of your suit? It very well may. If you believe that you were hit by a drugged driver, or a drunk driver, in North Richland Hills, contact an experienced North Richland Hills semi-truck accident lawyer at the Hart Law Firm for your free consultation. Time is of the essence. Call 817.380.4888 today.