All motorists have a responsibility to only get behind the wheel when sober; however, depending on the vehicle you drive, the consequences for not doing so can be even more dire. For those in transportation-heavy professions, such as long-haul truckers, there are harsher restrictions on the "legal limit" for driving after alcohol consumption. Here's what you should know.
What is the BAC Limit for Truck Drivers?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) imposes a 0.04% BAC limit on truck drivers. This is much lower than the 0.08% BAC limit for other motorists. The reason for this is that truck drivers are operating large and heavy vehicles, which can cause serious accidents if not driven correctly.
When it comes to drinking and driving, truck drivers are held to a much stricter standard. This is because the size and weight of the vehicle can increase the risks of serious injury and death in a crash. Alcohol can often affect a truck driver more than other motorists because of the larger vehicle, as it impairs their ability to make quick decisions, react to changing traffic conditions, and maintain control of their truck.
In addition, alcohol can also lead to fatigue, which is a major hazard for truck drivers. For these reasons, it is important that truck drivers avoid drinking any alcohol before getting behind the wheel.
Alternatives for Truck Drivers
In many ways, truck drivers turn to alcohol or other substances to cope with the long hours on the road. It is important for truck drivers to find other ways to cope with the stress of their job. Some healthy alternatives include exercise, meditation, and communicating with friends and family.
New York Trucking Accident Attorneys
Regardless of what they are driving, an intoxicated motorist does not belong on the roads. } aims to combat drunk drivers by holding these negligent individuals responsible for the damages they cause. If you or a loved one was injured due to the negligence of another on the roads, call (888) 365-4940 to discuss your legal options.
