Fulton County Truck Driver Intoxication Lawyer
The sheer size and weight of an 18-wheeler make driving it inherently dangerous. Further, the job is demanding and exhausting, and it can take a toll on even the most alert and focused drivers. When drivers have alcohol or other intoxicating substances, the risk of serious accidents greatly increases.
If an intoxicated truck driver caused an accident and harmed you or a loved one, a Fulton County truck driver intoxication lawyer could help. A well-versed truck accident attorney could review your situation to determine whether you are entitled to compensation and if so, help you navigate the legal system.
Commercial Driver’s Licenses Means Stricter Safety Standards
Semi-trucks require far more skill to operate than cars. Truck drivers are required to earn a commercial driver’s license, which both allows them to operate tractor-trailers and imposes tighter restrictions, particularly when it comes to intoxicated driving.
What is a Truck Driver’s BAC Legal Limit?
While 0.08 is the legal blood alcohol content for car drivers, truck drivers are considered legally drunk at just 0.04 blood alcohol content under both Georgia law and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s regulations. Truck drivers convicted of their first DUI will have their license suspended, while those convicted for a second time will have it permanently revoked. This stricter standard makes a great deal of sense as trucks have the capacity to cause far more damage in the event of an accident.
Intoxicated Truck Driver Accidents Can Lead to Serious Injuries
An 18-wheeler collision can have devastating consequences for pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists, and other motorists. Broken bones, burns, organ damage, internal bleeding, spinal cord damage, and traumatic brain injuries could lead to temporary or permanent disabilities, leaving a person unable to work.
In addition to the physical pain and emotional trauma, these injuries can also be extremely expensive to treat. Fees for an ambulance, hospitalization, doctors, home care, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, physical therapy, and home and vehicle modifications can be overwhelming. A Fulton County truck driver intoxication lawyer could pursue compensation to help with these expenses, and provide for a victim’s pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Who Can be a Defendant in a Drunk Truck Driver Case?
When an intoxicated truck driver injures another, there is a case to be made against the driver. But others may be found liable as well. Georgia’s dram shop laws states that anyone who serves or sells alcohol to an intoxicated person liable. If a trucking company employed the driver, it could also be held responsible for the negligent or reckless acts of its employees.
Some trucking companies might claim that an at-fault driver is an independent contractor and therefore not the company’s legal responsibility. However, a skilled Fulton County truck driver intoxication attorney could investigate the circumstances to argue against the company’s claim.
Reach out to a Fulton County Truck Driver Intoxication Lawyer Today
If your life or that of a loved one has been impacted by an intoxicated trucking accident, it could be beneficial to consult with a Fulton County truck driver intoxication lawyer as soon as possible. Georgia allows victims just two years to assert claims for monetary damages for personal injury, so call today to learn more about the options available to you.
