Medically unfit truck drivers: a real risk on Texas highways

There are many reasons why an 18-wheeler accident might occur. These reasons include:

• Driver is rushing to meet delivery deadlines

• The driver is exhausted after driving for too long a period without rest

• The driver is both stressed and tired and is not paying attention to cars on the road

• The driver is not looking in his blind spots

• The driver is tailgating

• Mechanical failure and inadequate maintenance

• Overloading of the truck

• Distracted driving

However, another major cause of large truck crashes is medically unfit drivers. A recent study found that hundreds of thousands of commercial truck drivers are driving big rigs even though they also qualify for full federal disability payments. These drivers have suffered momentary black outs, seizures, heart attacks, collapses and loss of consciousness while behind the wheel. Some drivers take prescription medications that affect their ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. When a driver controlling a 40 tons semi truck collapses at the wheel or is not able to focus on driving safely, everyone on the road is at risk.

The federal government has medical rules regarding truck driving; however, these rules have not been well-enforced. If one doctor declares a trucker unfit to drive, the truck driver can shop around until a doctor provides him with medical clearance to work. According to Transportation Department data, Texas leads the nation in the number of commercial drivers medical rule violations, such as failing to carry a medical certificate.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has made repeated safety recommendations regarding medically unfit drivers. There are new laws on the books that will set minimum health standards and eliminate doctor shopping.

Trucking companies are responsible for screening drivers and for making sure they are drug-free and medically fit to be on the road. If you or a loved one has been in an accident involving a medically unfit driver, both the driver and the trucking company share responsibility for the accident. You have rights, and the personal injury lawyers Cowen Law Group can help you protect those rights and get full compensation for all your losses. Contact our Brownsville accident attorneys at 877-385-1282.