Alcohol and Drug Use

Respected Prince George's County Personal Injury Lawyers Protecting Your Rights After Semi-Truck Collisions Involving Impaired Drivers

The causes of truck accidents often point to preventable behaviors and conditions that compromise the safety of everyone on the road. In Prince George's County, impaired driving caused by alcohol or drug use is a leading factor in catastrophic truck accidents. When truck drivers operate under the influence, their judgment, reaction time, and ability to control their vehicle are severely impaired. A skilled Prince George's County truck accident lawyer can help uncover the role of substance use in your crash and fight to hold the responsible parties accountable.

At Foran & Foran, P.A., we understand that alcohol and drug use is just one of many causes behind truck accidents. Issues like braking failures often compound the risks impaired drivers pose, further endangering others on the road. Our team thoroughly investigates every angle of your case, from driver impairment to vehicle malfunction, to build a compelling claim. Contact us today for compassionate and experienced legal representation that prioritizes your recovery.

How Alcohol and Drug Use Affects Truck Drivers

Truck drivers operate some of the largest and heaviest vehicles on the road. Even small impairments caused by alcohol or drugs can lead to catastrophic results. According to a 2023 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report, 3% of large-truck drivers involved in fatal traffic crashes in the most recent reporting year had blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) of .08 g/dL or higher. Although lower than the rates for passenger cars (24%) and motorcycles (28%), this statistic highlights a serious risk when considering the size and weight of these vehicles.

Substance use impairs key functions for safe driving, including reaction time, judgment, and coordination. The NHTSA also notes that large-truck drivers involved in fatal crashes had a higher percentage (20.8%) of previously recorded traffic crashes than drivers of motorcycles, passenger cars, and light trucks. This data underscores the importance of holding impaired drivers accountable for their actions.

Common Indicators of Impairment

Recognizing impairment is critical to preventing accidents. Researchers have identified 24 key driving behaviors that predict a BAC of 0.08% or higher, including:

Problems maintaining lane position: Weaving or drifting across lane lines strongly indicates impairment.

Speed and braking issues: Erratic acceleration or inconsistent braking patterns suggest impaired motor control.

Vigilance problems: Failing to respond to traffic signals or hazards reflects slowed reaction times.

Judgment errors: Risky maneuvers like tailgating or improper lane changes demonstrate poor decision-making.

These behaviors predict impairment with a probability of at least 35%, making them critical factors in investigating truck accidents caused by alcohol or drug use.

Statistics That Highlight the Risks of Impaired Truck Driving 

Truck accidents involving impaired drivers result in thousands of preventable deaths each year. Recent NHTSA data shows nearly 6,000 fatalities annually in crashes involving large trucks. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are often unable to react in time to avoid collisions, making these accidents particularly severe.

Additionally, large-truck drivers have the lowest percentage of prior DWI convictions (0.8%) compared to other vehicle types. However, this does not negate the danger posed when impairment occurs. The combination of massive vehicle weight, reduced braking ability, and impaired driver judgment creates a hazardous situation for everyone on the road.

Who Is Responsible for an Impaired Truck Driver?

Victims of truck accidents caused by alcohol or drug use often face devastating injuries, costly medical bills, and significant emotional trauma. A Prince George's County truck accident attorney can help you hold all responsible parties accountable, including:

Truck Drivers: Impaired drivers are directly liable for their actions.

Trucking Companies: Employers may be held responsible for negligent hiring or failing to enforce drug and alcohol testing policies.

Third Parties: Under Maryland's dram shop laws, liability may extend to bars or establishments in some cases.

At Foran & Foran, P.A., we thoroughly investigate every aspect of your case, including driver history, toxicology reports, and employer compliance with safety regulations. This comprehensive approach ensures that no detail is overlooked in your claim.

Have You Suffered Injuries Due to Alcohol or Drug Use by a Truck Driver?
When impaired truck drivers take the wheel, their reckless actions put lives at risk. Victims often face devastating injuries and significant financial losses. Foran & Foran, P.A. is a trusted Prince George’s County truck accident law firm. We are here to hold negligent truck drivers and their employers accountable. Our compassionate lawyers understand the physical and emotional toll these accidents cause and will work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve. With free consultations and a no-recovery, no-fee policy, you can pursue justice without financial stress. Call 301-441-2022 or connect through the secure online form today.