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Any driver who gets behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs is taking a dangerous risk. However, when the drugged driver gets behind the wheel of a huge commercial truck, the stakes rise to an exceptionally alarming level. As extreme as that scenario sounds, on-the-job drug use is more common among truckers than most people realize. Long stretches of time on the road can get monotonous. Time off spent in truck stops or strange towns can lead to unwise activities just to escape the boredom.
Types of Drugs Used by Truck Drivers
Some truckers use alcohol and drugs recreationally while off-duty. Some use substances to help them stay awake and alert while traveling along stretches of desolate highways. Others think nothing of enjoying a readily available supply of cannabis products while cruising through an area where their sale is lawful, even if their use on the roadway is undoubtedly prohibited.
A trucker may use a stimulant to help energize them for the drive ahead and provide a way for them to avoid drowsiness on the long trip. They may see a benefit in remaining amped up on the drive instead of fatigued. Their focus is likely on racking up miles without giving in to the need for rest.
What is the Industry Doing About It?
Many trucking companies drug test job applicants before hiring them as drivers. Standard urine tests only detect drugs used within the past few days. Proponents of stricter testing insist that the hiring process involve hair analysis drug testing, which detects the presence of drugs within the last 90 days.
However, the only drug testing required by industry leaders and officials is in the aftermath of a serious truck accident. In which case, any driver suspected of being at-fault for an accident that caused serious injury or property damage must undergo a urine drug test within 32 hours of the accident.
Our Virginia Beach Truck Accident Lawyers Represent Victims Injured in All Types of Truck Accidents
If you suffered injuries due to an accident involving a truck driver that was under the influence of drugs, you may be eligible to collect damages to help pay for your medical bills and other related costs with the help of a Virginia Beach truck accident lawyer. At East Coast Trial Lawyers, we will fight those responsible for your accident and secure compensation for your injuries. Call us at 757-352-2237 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, we represent truck accident victims throughout Chesapeake, Eastern Shores, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Suffolk, as well as North Carolina and nationwide.
