Unsafe Behaviors by Truckers Behind the Wheel Can Be Even More Dangerous When Combined
We recently talked about how alcohol and drug use by truckers can cause serious accidents, but it’s not always a clear-cut case of impairment. In many cases, the most dangerous driving impairment is engaging in a combination of unsafe behaviors and substances, such as:
- Drugs. Both medication prescribed by a doctor and illegal drugs can have an effect on driving, especially when a truck driver is already impaired. Some drugs can also react with other medications the driver is taking and cause an allergic reaction that factors into an accident.
- Alcohol. Alcohol can slow reaction times and increase the effects of many other prescription and non-prescription medications. Even if the driver normally takes the medication with no ill effects, the addition of even a small amount of alcohol can make the driver excessively drowsy.
- Fatigue. Tired, groggy drivers are more likely to make mistakes behind the wheel, and it can be a dangerous factor on top of drug or alcohol impairment. Fatigue and pressure to adhere to tight delivery schedules can also lead to drivers using medication to stay awake longer, which can wear off quickly and leave drivers more prone to nodding off behind the wheel.
- Distraction. Fiddling with the radio, texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other distracted-driving behaviors is already known to be unsafe, and it can be an even bigger problem when a driver’s reaction time is slowed by drugs, alcohol, or fatigue.
For more tips, information, and help for victims of truck accidents, contact our law office at 312-332-1400 or connect with us on Facebook.
