If a truck driver chooses to place the health and safety of other motorists in danger by violating alcohol and drug regulations, then that driver may be held responsible for the losses and damages their negligence causes. At Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers, our experienced Maryland big rig accident attorneys are dedicated to providing our clients with the support and legal representation they need to obtain the justice they deserve.
Contact us today or call (301) 932-9997 for a free case evaluation. Let our experienced team help you.
Big Rig DUI Statistics
The immense size and weight of most semi-trucks makes them dangerous to others on the road. When alcohol intoxication or the influence of drugs is added to the inherent danger of such a large vehicle, the consequences can be devastating.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2006, 4,729 truck drivers were involved in fatal truck crashes as the result of alcohol impairment. In 2007, 4,551 alcohol-impaired truck operators were involved in fatal truck crashes. In 2008, two percent of large truck drivers involved in fatal accidents were alcohol-impaired with BAC levels of at least .08.
FMCSA Alcohol & Drug Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates all commercial vehicle activity in the U.S. This includes driver licensing, truck size, weight restrictions, Hours of Service (HOS) requirements, and alcohol and drug testing procedures.
All truck operators that hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) on public roadways are required to submit to drug and alcohol tests by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), including:
- Pre-Employment
- Random Testing
- Reasonable Suspicion
- Post-Accident
- Return-to-Duty
- Follow-Up Testing
If a big rig operator tests positive for alcohol or drugs, or refuses to submit to the tests, the FMCSA will immediately remove him or her from operating any CMV on public roads. Each state has its own consequences as well.
Helping Victims of Devastating Crashes
Our legal team at Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers understands that no amount of money can erase the trauma and loss you may have experienced after a big rig accident. Holding the negligent parties liable may seem like an insurmountable challenge, but a dedicated lawyer will pursue your claim while you and your loved ones recover. We will help you obtain the financial compensation you deserve to mitigate the burden of costly medical care, rehabilitation, and even loss of consortium in the event of a wrongful death.