With truck drivers it is critical that they are in control of their vehicles at all times. Sometimes truck accidents are caused by inattention of the truck driver or other causes beyond the truck driver's control.
There are times however when the truck driver himself is impaired. Driving a 20,000-pound vehicle requires certain height and responsibilities upon the truck driver end the trucking company.
Sometimes a truck driver will drink when off-duty and then go on duty while still under the influence of alcohol or with little sleep. In that case, like any other person the truck driver may very well have difficulty safely operating his rig.
The Federal motor carrier safety regulations have very specific rules with regard to truck drivers, alcohol and drugs. Having the regulations is not enough. Enforcement and drug test by trucking companies and state officials is critical to protect the public.
It does not matter to the family who has lost a loved one that the truck driver gets a lengthy jail sentence. The key to truck safety is prevention.
Trucking companies can implement policies, which reduce the number of drinking drivers operating semi-trucks.
Like most drunk driving accidents, a drivers reaction time, judgment and physical impairment all create a situation that is a prescription for disaster.
Greg Baumgartner is a Houston 18 wheeler accident lawyer and founder of the Baumgartner law firm, which is dedicated to helping victims of truck accidents seek civil justice. If you or loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident and would like to speak with a Houston drunk driving accident attorney call the Baumgartner law firm for a no obligation consultation.
