Drunk driving is one of the leading causes of crashes in South Carolina and across the country. Despite the known dangers of driving intoxicated and the regulations that prohibit truckers from drinking before or during their shift, the rates of these wrecks are alarmingly high.
When a trucker acts negligently and causes a drunk driving truck accident in Kingstree, they are directly liable for injuries and other monetary damages. In addition, trucking companies can be held responsible if they hire a driver with known substance abuse issues or fail to screen for alcohol or drug use.
If you were hurt in a crash and believe that intoxication was a factor, you have legal options. A hardworking truck collision attorney with Whetstone Perkins & Fulda could help you pursue a claim in your unique case. Call today to learn more.
The Dangers of Drunk Driving for Truck Drivers
Strict rules and regulations are in place to prevent Kingstree truck drivers from drinking on the job and to curb drunk driving truck wrecks. Truckers are prohibited from consuming alcohol for up to four hours before their shift starts and are not allowed to keep it anywhere in their cabin.
When a truck driver is involved in a collision, their employer is required to test for drugs and alcohol as potential factors in the crash. The legal limit for commercial truckers is 0.04 percent. Typically, truck drivers are tested for substances within eight hours of an accident, and these reports can offer critical evidence of negligence. There are several risks associated with driving under the influence, including collisions, injuries, and fatalities.
Increased Risk of a Crash
Alcohol impairs reaction time, coordination, and judgment, which is crucial for safe driving. Even a small amount can significantly increase a trucker’s risk of getting into a wreck.
Serious Injuries and Death
Drunk driving collisions are far more likely to result in serious injuries or death compared to wrecks involving sober motorists. In the United States alone, thousands of people die every year in intoxicated driving crashes.
If you were injured in a drunk driving truck accident, be sure to speak with a Kingstree injury attorney about compensation.
Liability for Injuries in Drunk Driving Truck Collisions
In a drunk driving truck wreck, the driver is most likely liable for damages. However, the trucking company can also be responsible under certain circumstances.
When a Trucking Company is Liable
Depending on the case specifics, the trucking company may be at fault under a legal concept called vicarious liability. This means an employer can be responsible for their employees’ actions if they were on the job.
For example, the company might be liable if an accident happened during work hours. In addition, if the company knew or should have known the trucker had a history of drunk driving and hired them anyway, they could be at fault for the collision.
If you have been in a truck crash caused by a drunk driver in Kingstree, it is essential to consult with legal counsel to understand your rights and options for compensation. They could help navigate the complexities of a claim and determine who may be responsible for your injuries.
Pursue Compensation For a Kingstree Drunk Driving Truck Accident Today
If you were injured in a drunk driving truck accident in Kingstree, be sure to secure legal representation. Our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys could take a dedicated approach to obtaining the damages you deserve.
Schedule an initial consultation with our team at Whetstone Perkins & Fulda today to find out how we could help you pursue compensation.