In a horrific semi truck accident last November that claimed the lives of four innocent people, the state has now determined that the driver had both marijuana and cocaine in his system it was reported.
The driver of the rig and his passenger were both killed as well as 2 people in a passenger car - as a result of the fiery explosion that occurred when the driver failed to realize traffic was at a standstill in front of him.
Statistics show that semi truck drivers are actually some of the safest on the road. They must go to driving school and pass a special test before getting a CDL; have annual medical check-ups; go through regular professional development and adhere to other state and federal regulations.
While nearly anyone can get a driver's license for a car - obtaining a license to drive a semi truck is a bit more challenging. The percentage of rig drivers who have been found to be under the influence of any type of substance is in the single digits.
Semi truck accidents are more likely to be caused by distracted or fatigued drivers than one who is drunk or high. Be that as it may - in this case the driver had taken drugs and his wonton negligence is now on record.
Semi truck hauling is expected to increase as we head into the next decade and we all know that there is no end in sight to road construction. This requires all of us who take to the road to be proactive in driving safely - and reporting poor driving directly to the local and state authorities before an accident occurs
Greg Baumgartner is a Houston truck accident lawyer and the founder of the Baumgartner Firm, a Houston personal injury law firm, which is dedicated to helping victims of truck accidents seek civil justice.
