Accidentes de camiones relacionados con drogas y alcohol

Truck drivers have some of the most demanding jobs in the country. They must work long hours, often alone, while fulfilling tight deadlines. They have to travel hundreds of miles in a day and arrive to destinations safely, all while obeying dozens of federal and local truck industry laws. Sometimes the pressure on truck drivers is too great, and they turn to substances to cope, remain energized, or to stay awake. Truckers under the influence are unpredictable and liable to cause serious or fatal truck accidents. 

• Driving under the influence (DUI) laws are different for commercial drivers. The law holds them to higher standards of care than the average driver, mostly because of the dangerous propensity of large commercial vehicles. Intoxicated commercial drivers are also liabilities to their employers. Drugs, whether it is alcohol, a psychoactive drug, or psychotropic substance act on the brain and can alter perception, coordination, cognitive behavior, attention, and balance that is required for safe driving.
• In Louisiana, the maximum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level for commercial driver is half of what it is for other drivers (0.04% compared to 0.08%).
• There are also rules under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that prohibit drivers from operating commercial vehicles within four hours of alcohol consumption.

Some companies tolerate “bad” drivers, without proper employment verifications, including drivers with drug and alcohol abuse, speeding and accident records. Some push drivers for “efficient” round trips, requiring excessive hours by drivers, which can lead to fatigue, inattention, and even falling asleep at the wheel.