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Despite the decades-long efforts of states nationwide to spread awareness and pass legislation to reduce the number of crashes caused by drunk drivers, it is still a primary cause of deadly crashes. Impaired commercial truckers substantially cause truck collisions on state roads and highways throughout California.
If you were in a car crash with an intoxicated trucker, personal injury laws protect you by allowing you to initiate legal action to collect compensation from the liable party. Call a dedicated attorney as soon as possible after being involved in a drunk driving truck accident in Westlake Village.
Long hours on the road, solitude, and the stress of working as a commercial truck operator make substance abuse a severe issue in California. They may partake in drinking alcoholic beverages before a shift or use substances such as cocaine or amphetamines to help stay awake and alert. While the substances may provide temporary relief for fatigue, they may also cause:
Therefore, the use of any intoxicating substances is highly hazardous and illegal. An attorney skilled in handling cases resulting from drunk driving truck crashes in Westlake Village could help hold the negligent individual responsible and obtain a fair settlement.
Not only is operating 18-wheelers after drinking or taking intoxicating drugs highly reckless and hazardous, but state laws strictly prohibit the action. Operating any motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol is illegal in California, and an arrest after a collision will result in harsh penalties and civil liability.
State laws hold truckers with a commercial driver’s license or CDL to a higher standard than other motorists. Under California Vehicle Code § 23152, operating a tractor-trailer with a BAC, short for a blood alcohol content of 0.04 percent or more, is unlawful, and the state will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law.
Federal and state governments closely monitor and regulate the trucking industry, including alcohol testing requirements. The United States Department of Transportation mandates that truckers holding CDLs undergo routine alcohol testing. Trucking companies must ensure drivers submit to pre-employment, post-accident, and random testing.
While the award for damages amounts can vary significantly, the severity and recklessness of truckers getting behind the wheel while impaired can often lead to substantial settlement amounts. Some examples of recoverable damages include the following:
A well-practiced lawyer—seasoned in handling cases for Westlake Village drunk driving truck collisions—knows the industry requirements, federal and state laws, and the essential evidence needed to prove fault and win an award for damages.
The substantial size and weight of tractor-trailers make them challenging to control and operate safely in the best conditions. Further, the size of commercial vehicles compared to regular passenger car vehicles increases the risk of fatalities.
Intoxicated truck operators are a severe threat to highway safety, making them a significant cause for concern. Therefore, you must take action to hold them legally and financially responsible for their negligent actions. Schedule a consultation with a compassionate and skillful lawyer if you need help after a drunk driving truck accident in Westlake Village.
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