Legal Drug Use Contributes to Commercial Truck Accidents
Florida and across the United States, becoming sandwiched between large commercial trucks barreling down the highway at 65 miles an hour is a frightening enough experience.
Of the 5,700,000 commercial motor vehicle drivers, more than a third used prescription or over-the-counter medication. While the use of illegal drugs was relatively rare, it’s important to remember that over-the-counter and prescribed drugs can cause impaired driving as well.
Understanding the Risks: Over-the-Counter Drugs vs. Road Safety
While the data shows that alcohol abuse and the use of illegal drugs among commercial drivers are declining, it highlights the use of legal drugs as a factor. Impaired driving is not just limited to alcohol abuse, distractions, or the use of illegal drugs.
A commercial truck driver may be taking medications to control epileptic seizures, chronic pain, or even allergies. All of these legal prescription medications can cause the driver to be impaired.
In addition, over-the-counter medications often cause drowsiness. When combined with an already tired driver, the use of legal drugs increases the probability of compromised decision making and impaired reaction times.
Road Safety and Driver Health
Private and public organizations are raising awareness of the risk factors like driver impairment that play major roles in truck-related traffic fatalities.
Proponents of traffic safety continue to find a means to prevent commercial truck drivers with health issues from taking to the roads. In addition, education with regard to impaired driving and the standardization of effective regulations is ongoing.
Have You Been Seriously Injured by an Intoxicated Driver? Our Tampa Truck Accident Lawyers May Be Able to Help.
Florida residents who have been involved in collisions with commercial trucks and buses may be eligible for compensation for their injuries. If you’ve seriously injured by a driver’s irresponsible behavior, call today at 1-800-538-4878 for a free case evaluation and initial consultation from an experienced Tampa truck accident lawyer.