Six Truck Driver Physical and Mental Factors that Can Contribute to a Crash

Not only does a commercial truck driver need a proper commercial driver’s license (CDL), he or she must be in proper physical and mental condition to safely operate such a large vehicle. A trucker who is not road-ready may be negligent. Here, our Miami semi-truck accident lawyers highlight six physical factors that could contribute to a commercial truck crash in Florida.

Physical and Mental Factors that Could Be Trucker Negligence

#1: Alcohol Use

Drunk driving is dangerous driving, especially in a large commercial vehicle. Federal law imposes strict alcohol limits on commercial drivers. Under 49 C.F.R. § 382.201, a driver is disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04 percent or higher. Florida also has a criminal DUI charge for commercial drivers at a BAC of 0.04 instead of 0.08. 

#2: Illegal Drug Use 

A trucker who is intoxicated by illegal drugs is putting innocent people at very serious risk. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has regulations that prohibit operation of a commercial vehicle under the influence of controlled substances, including marijuana and cocaine. Drug use affects cognition, perception, and motor control.

#3: Medication Use 

Impairment based on the use of medications, both prescription and over the counter (OTC), can be very dangerous for truck drivers. Certain drugs, including opioids, benzodiazepines, and sedating antihistamines, can reduce reaction time and cause drowsiness. A driver must obtain clearance from a qualified medical examiner if using potentially impairing medication. 

#4: Fatigue 

Fatigued driving is dangerous driving. Unfortunately, it remains a very serious safety problem in the trucking industry. In fact, nearly one in ten commercial truck accidents nationwide are believed to have driver fatigue as one of the causal factors. Federal hours-of-service rules limit driving time and require rest breaks. Truckers must comply with these safety regulations. 

#5: Illness

It is not a person’s fault that they get sick. At the same time, certain illnesses, whether acute or chronic, could impair a driver so much that it is not safe for him or her to be behind the wheel of a large commercial truck. Federal regulations require drivers to meet medical fitness standards.

#6: Poor Vision 

You cannot drive safely unless you can actually see the road. It is one of the most basic safety standards in the commercial trucking industry. CDL holders need to have sufficient vision. Poor vision impairs hazard detection, distance judgment, and lane positioning. A driver who fails to meet vision standards or neglects corrective measures poses a foreseeable risk. 

Call Our Miami Truck Accident Attorney Today

At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our Miami tractor trailer accident attorney is an aggressive advocate for justice. Hurt in a serious wreck caused by the negligence of a trucker? We are here to protect your rights. Call us now to set up a free, no obligation initial consultation. With offices in Miami and West Palm Beach, we handle semi-truck accident claims throughout South Florida.