Driving a commercial truck while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal. Federal regulations impose strict blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits on commercial drivers. Just 0.04%, half the legal limit for most motorists, constitutes impaired driving. Even small amounts of alcohol or drugs can impair reaction time, judgment, and coordination.
Despite these laws, impaired driving still occurs and increases the dangers of truck accidents.
Victims of truck crashes in Aurora, IL frequently suffer severe injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Severe burns
- Multiple fractures
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Amputations
- Fatal injuries or even wrongful death
Many survivors face extensive medical bills and years of rehabilitation. Some never regain full independence.
Are Trucking Companies Required to Drug Test Their Drivers?
Federal law requires trucking companies to maintain strict drug and alcohol testing programs.
These include:
- Pre-employment drug screening
- Random drug and alcohol testing
- Post-accident testing after fatal crashes or accidents involving injuries or disabling vehicle damage
- Testing after reasonable suspicion of impairment
Unfortunately, not all companies follow these rules. Some employers:
- Skip required random testing
- Fail to investigate past substance abuse issues
- Ignore warning signs of impaired behavior
- Allow unsafe drivers to continue operating trucks
When trucking companies prioritize profits over safety, they put everyone on the road at risk.
Who Is Liable in Drug or Alcohol-Related Truck Accidents?
Crashes involving impaired commercial drivers often involve more than one responsible party.
The following parties may bear liability:
The Truck Driver
Driving under the influence violates both state and federal law. If testing confirms drug or alcohol use connected to a crash, the driver may be automatically considered negligent.
The Trucking Company
Employers must properly screen, train, supervise, and monitor their drivers. Companies that hire drivers with known substance abuse histories or fail to enforce testing rules can be held responsible for negligent hiring or retention.
Other Third Parties
Additional parties may share liability depending on the circumstances. For example:
- Another driver may have contributed to the crash
- A defective vehicle component may have worsened the collision
- A bar or restaurant may have overserved alcohol to the driver before the crash
It is critical to identify every party that contributed to the accident to unlock every source of compensation in your case.
What Compensation Is Available to Aurora Truck Accident Victims?
Illinois law allows injured victims to seek compensation for both financial and personal losses resulting from an impaired-driver truck crash.
A successful claim may include economic and non-economic damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning ability
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and trauma
- Mental anguish
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship or consortium
In cases involving impaired driving, courts may also award punitive damages to punish the truck driver and trucking company and discourage similar behavior in the future.
Contact an Aurora Truck Accident Lawyer for Help
If you or a loved one was injured in a truck crash caused by drugs or alcohol in Aurora, an experienced Aurora truck accident attorney can help. Your lawyer will investigate the crash, secure toxicology evidence, identify all liable parties, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Contact Feagans Law Group to schedule a free consultation to learn more about your rights and legal options.