How Many Truck Accidents Are Caused by Drunk Drivers?
When you hear the term drunk driving, you probably think of someone in a car. But there are plenty of truck drivers who drink and drive as well, and that can lead to devastating accidents on the road.
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The sheer size and weight of large trucks can make them much more dangerous to drive than cars or other vehicles on the road. This is especially true if the driver of a semi-truck or another commercial vehicle is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Despite the restrictions and strict testing procedures that are in place to prevent drunk driving in the trucking industry, it still happens. It is one of the leading causes of fatal collisions and injuries involving large trucks on American roads every year.
Drunk truck drivers put everyone on the highway in danger, from other motorists to pedestrians and passengers in their own vehicles. They also cause a lot of property damage and death.
What are the Texas and United States laws regarding truckers’ drinking while driving?
In the state of Texas, a commercial truck driver can be arrested for DUI if their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is above a certain level. Generally, a BAC of.08 or more is the legal limit for a DUI in the state of Texas, but some drivers can be charged with a DUI even if their BAC is below a certain level.
What happens if the driver is found to be intoxicated after an accident?
If truck driver is found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs after an accident, they can be taken to jail and/or face significant fines. They can also lose their license for a period of time, which can greatly impact their ability to get a job or earn money.
What is the impact of a drunk truck driver on the insurance rates of other drivers?
The cost of a drunk truck driver’s car insurance can be significantly higher than a non-intoxicated driver. In addition, a drunk driver can put other drivers in jeopardy by being unable to make timely decisions that are necessary for safe travel.
What is the age group that most often gets involved in drunk truck accidents?
According to a National Transportation Safety Board study, 16 to 24-year-olds account for nearly four in five alcohol-impaired drivers killed on the road. This age group has the highest number of drunk driving deaths per 100,000 people, followed by 21- to 24-year-olds and 25- to 34-year-olds.
What are the types of crashes caused by drunk truck drivers?
Rollovers are among the most common type of crashes that involve a truck driver who is under the influence of alcohol. They occur when a driver takes a curve or exit ramp too quickly, which can cause the vehicle to roll over.
Rear-end collisions are another common crash that can occur with a truck driver who is under the influence. The high center of gravity of a big rig means that a driver may accidentally hit a rear vehicle if they are driving too fast on the roadway.