Truck Driving Under the Influence
The legal process differs from standard car accidents when a truck driver under the influence causes a crash. Criminal charges may be filed against the driver, but that does not automatically provide financial compensation to the victims. A personal injury claim is necessary to recover damages, and multiple parties may be held liable.
Trucking companies can be held responsible if they fail to conduct proper background checks, ignore previous DUI violations, or pressure drivers to work long hours, increasing the risk of substance abuse. Additionally, a bar or establishment that overserved the driver before the crash may also be liable under Pennsylvania’s Dram Shop Laws (42 Pa. C.S. § 7102). Our injury attorney in Easton, PA, can investigate these factors and determine all potential sources of compensation.
Visit Sharma Law Office for legal representation in truck accident cases. Our firm helps injury victims pursue justice and hold negligent parties accountable.
Are There Stricter DUI Laws for Truck Drivers?
Commercial truck drivers are held to higher legal standards regarding alcohol and drug use while operating a vehicle. Under FMCSA regulations, truck drivers must adhere to a BAC limit of 0.04%, compared to the 0.08% limit for regular drivers. Additionally, federal laws prohibit truck drivers from consuming alcohol within four hours of operating a commercial vehicle.
Under federal law, truck drivers must undergo random drug and alcohol testing. Employers must also conduct pre-employment screenings and post-accident testing to ensure compliance. If a trucking company fails to enforce these regulations and an impaired driver causes an accident, the company may share liability. Our personal injury lawyer in Easton, PA, can review these factors to determine if negligence contributed to the crash.
Liability and Compensation in DUI Truck Accidents
Victims of DUI-related truck accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Bills – Emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments.
- Lost Wages – Income lost due to the inability to work during recovery.
- Pain and Suffering – Emotional and physical distress caused by the accident.
- Punitive Damages – Additional compensation intended to punish reckless behavior, such as driving under the influence.
Evidence such as police reports, toxicology results, and witness statements can strengthen a case. Our personal injury attorney in Easton, PA, can gather critical evidence and build a strong claim for maximum compensation.
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Steps to Take After a Truck Accident Involving an Impaired Driver
Taking the right steps after a DUI-related truck accident can protect your rights and strengthen your legal claim.
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance. A police report will document essential details.
- Seek Medical Attention – Some injuries may not be immediately noticeable. Prompt medical care ensures proper treatment and creates a medical record.
- Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Obtain Witness Statements
- Consult an Attorney – Our Easton, PA, truck accident attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue fair compensation.
To learn more about our approach to personal injury claims, visit our About Us page.
How DUI Truck Accidents Differ from Standard Truck Accidents
DUI truck accidents involve additional legal factors impacting a personal injury case. Unlike standard truck crashes, where driver fatigue or mechanical failure may be contributing factors, DUI cases often involve criminal proceedings. However, a criminal conviction does not automatically result in compensation for victims.
A civil claim is necessary to recover damages, and proving impairment requires strong evidence. Toxicology reports, surveillance footage, and prior DUI records may be used to demonstrate negligence. Additionally, trucking companies may try to deny responsibility by blaming the driver individually, making legal representation crucial. Our injury attorney in Easton, PA, can fight against these tactics and work to secure full compensation.
Justice for Victims of DUI Truck Accidents
A truck driver’s decision to operate a vehicle while under the influence can have devastating consequences. Victims should not have to bear the financial burden of medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress alone. Sharma Law Office is committed to helping injury victims hold negligent truck drivers and their employers accountable. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your legal options.