DUI and Drug Use

Every day, thousands of large trucks travel the roadways of Northern California, hauling millions of pounds of cargo. The trucking industry is an important part of the American economic system, and truck drivers often have strict deadlines to meet. Unfortunately, such pressures cause some drivers to get behind the wheel when they should not. If you or someone you love have been injured in a truck crash that was caused by a driver who was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the experienced attorneys at Corsiglia McMahon & Allard, L.L.P. can help you seek the full justice you deserve.

In the state of California, the driver of a commercial vehicle such as a large truck can be charged with driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) if his or her blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.04 percent or higher. However, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has instituted regulations that prohibit commercial vehicle operators from consuming alcohol or being under the influence of alcohol within four hours of driving. In fact, the FMCSA regulations provide a “zero-tolerance” policy. This means that a driver who has a BAC above 0.00 but below 0.04 may not face criminal charges but could be removed from service and face administrative consequences, including the suspension of his or her commercial license. The FCMSA also maintains a zero-tolerance policy in regard to drug use, including the use of marijuana.

When a drunk driver gets behind the wheel of any vehicle, he or she is placing others in danger. When the vehicle is a large, commercial truck, the dangers increase exponentially. At Corsiglia McMahon & Allard, L.L.P., we are committed to helping victims of drug- and alcohol-related truck accidents recover the compensation they need to put their lives back together. In doing so, we also work hard to make California roadways safer for all motorists. We know that the only way to institute real change is by holding trucking companies responsible for the actions and negligence of their contracted and employee drivers.

If you are ever involved in a truck accident and you suspect that the driver was drinking or under the influence of drugs, it is important to notify the responding police officer immediately. Do your best to take photos at the accident scene and notes regarding the events leading up to the accident and your injuries. Then, contact a skilled attorney at Corsiglia McMahon & Allard, L.L.P. as soon as you are able.

We will go right to work in investigating the crash looking for any and all evidence that can be used in building your case, including indications of driver intoxication. Our team will remain at your side throughout the entire process, providing support in interviews with police or crash investigators, representing your interests in settlement negotiations, and advocating on your behalf in court, if necessary. We will do everything in our power to make sure you obtain the compensation the law provides for your injuries.

To learn more about how our firm can help you after a truck accident caused by a drunk or drugged driver, contact our office. Call (408) 289-1417 to schedule a free consultation today. Our firm has successfully handled truck accidents throughout the San Jose and San Francisco Bay Area, including but not limited to Highway 17, Highway 152, Highway 101, Highway 1, Highway 680, Highway 580, and Highway 5.