It is hard to understand, given the wealth of knowledge illustrating the dangers of drunk driving, why anyone would drive after having too much to drink. However, it happens all the time. In Florida, there were over 5,000 Florida drunk driving accidents in 2017 alone. Of those accidents, 350 resulted in at least one death.
Florida truck accidents involving an intoxicated driver are more common than many motorists believe. One reason for this is that truck drivers spend long hours on the road, and often take various substances to stay awake. Aside from alcohol, the three most common drugs used by truck drivers are marijuana, amphetamines, and cocaine. Each of these drugs tends to cause a driver to be more alert initially; however, as the drug wears off, truck drivers may feel tired or lethargic.
Taking drugs while driving a large truck increases several risks. First, the mind-altering effect the drug has on the driver can decrease reaction time and reduce cognitive functioning overall. And second, once the drug wears off, the risk of a Florida drowsy driving accident increases.
Dump Truck Driver Admits to Snorting Heroin Before Fatal Crash
Earlier this month, police officers arrested a dump truck driver after he caused an 11-vehicle accident claiming the lives of two motorists. According to a local news report, the carnage began as the dump truck rear-ended an SUV. After the initial collision, the dump truck crossed into oncoming traffic, where it collided head-on with a minivan. The drivers of several other cars and trucks on the road at the time were unable to avoid the collision. The driver and passenger of the minivan were pronounced dead as a result of the injuries they sustained in the accident.
When police arrived on the scene, they administered a sobriety test on the truck driver. He failed, smiling and laughing at times during the examination. He also admitted to police that he had snorted heroin a few hours earlier. This prompted police officers to check the man’s nose, where they noticed a white, powdery substance. The dump truck also matched the description of a truck involved in a hit-and-run accident just a few hours earlier. Police were initially unable to locate that vehicle, and are in the process of determining if it was the same driver. The truck driver was arrested on several counts of reckless homicide by vehicle.
Have You Been Injured in a Florida Car Accident?
If you or someone you love recently suffered a serious injury as a result of a Florida drunk driving accident, the experienced personal injury lawyers at Friedman Rodman & Frank can help. At our South Florida truck accident law firm, we represent clients and their family members in all types of motor vehicle accident cases, including truck and bus accidents. Our dedicated team of attorneys understands the difficult nature of these cases, and caters our representation to the unique needs of each client. To learn more about how we can help you pursue a claim for compensation, call 877-448-8585 to schedule a free consultation today.