There are many common causes of truck accidents on Houston’s roads, including speeding, distracted driving, fatigued driving and impaired driving.
Unfortunately, recent statistics show that the number of impaired truck drivers on the road is increasing, particularly when it comes to marijuana use.
The data revealed that almost 41,000 truck drivers tested positive for marijuana in 2022. This is a 32% increase from 2021.
A possible reason for the increase
It is speculated that one of the reasons for the increase is confusion over when and where marijuana use is legal. Several states have legalized marijuana use for medical and/or recreational purposes in recent years.
However, the trucking industry still prohibits truck drivers from operating their vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Penalties for truckers who test positive for marijuana
Truckers face severe consequences for having a positive marijuana test. They are forbidden from driving until they have a negative test and must go through a “return-to-work” process.
Truckers under the influence of marijuana are a huge danger to other drivers on the road. As with alcohol or fatigue, marijuana use negatively affects a trucker’s ability to drive.
How marijuana use impacts truck drivers
Impaired truckers are more likely to have slower reaction times, reduce their coordination and ability to stay alert and affect their judgment. All these significantly increase the chance of a serious or fatal crash.
In an accident involving a truck, you are the one who is likely to suffer the serious injuries, due to the large size of the truck. A truck accident can result in brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones or permanent disfigurement.
Impaired driving is negligent driving
Truckers who are under the influence of marijuana when driving are not only breaking the law and trucking industry rules, but they are also driving negligently.
You could receive compensation after an accident with a negligent trucker through a personal injury claim; however, you must prove each element of negligence. An experienced personal injury attorney can help.