Illegal Drugs, Alcohol, and Medications: Impaired Truckers Put Atlanta Motorists at Risk

When a fully loaded truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results can be devastating. In addition to driver fatigue, speeding, and aggressive behavior, one of the most common causes of these crashes is driving while impaired. Truck drivers who use alcohol, illegal drugs, or even certain prescription medications on the road create a serious risk for Atlanta motorists.

Our experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyers explain how being impaired increases the likelihood of crashes and evidence you need to get compensation in a claim.

How Impairment Increases Atlanta Truck Accident Risks

Commercial drivers are under strict rules from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which prohibits alcohol use within four hours of driving and sets limits on drug and medication use. Despite state laws and federal regulations, impaired driving continues to be a factor in many truck crashes in Georgia.

Here are some of the ways impairment can affect truckers and increase crash risks:

• Alcohol use: Slows reaction time, clouds judgment, and reduces coordination, making it difficult to control massive vehicles on busy Atlanta highways.
• Illicit drugs: Substances like cocaine or methamphetamines may initially create alertness but often cause reckless driving and crashes when the effects wear off.
• Prescription medications: Common prescriptions for pain, anxiety, or sleep disorders can impair reaction time or cause drowsiness, even if legally prescribed.
• Over-the-counter drugs: Cold or allergy medications may seem harmless, but they can cause dizziness and reduced focus behind the wheel.

For drivers stuck in commuter traffic on I-285, I-75, or I-20, sharing the road with an impaired trucker can cause catastrophic harm.

Proving Impairment in Atlanta Truck Accident Claims

Georgia has strict laws prohibiting impaired driving, whether it involves alcohol or other substances. Commercial vehicle drivers are held to an even higher standard and can face serious criminal charges if they cause an Atlanta truck accident while driving under the influence. They also face civil liability.

However, holding an impaired trucker or the trucking company they work for accountable is often a challenge and requires strong evidence. While you focus on your recovery, evidence our Atlanta truck accident lawyers gather to support your claim includes:

• Police reports and field sobriety tests documenting suspected alcohol or drug use.
• Toxicology reports showing the presence of drugs or alcohol in the driver’s system.
• Electronic logging device (ELD) data to identify erratic driving behavior before the crash.
• Witness statements from those who observed impaired driving behaviors.
• Employment and medical records that reveal a history of substance use or failure to follow safety regulations.

To Speak With Our Experienced Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyers, Contact Our Office Today

At Shiver Hamilton Campbell, we understand the life-changing impact of truck crashes in Atlanta. When impaired driving is to blame, you can count on us to act as fierce negotiators on your side, gathering evidence and taking other actions needed to help you get the maximum compensation in a claim.

To speak with our experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyers, call or contact us online. Request a consultation today.

Sources:

fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/drug-alcohol-testing/overview-drug-and-alcohol-rules

gahighwaysafety.org/impaired-driving-laws/