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    Allen Illegal Drug Use Truck Accident Lawyer

    Allen Illegal Drug Use Accident Lawyer

    Truck driving and illegal drug use don’t mix. Driving a truck under the influence of illegal drugs leads to severe accidents. If you’re involved in a collision with a truck driver on drugs, you may be injured. Many accidents caused by illegal drug use are also fatal.

    In many parts of Texas, illegal drug use is a serious problem. When someone using illegal drugs gets behind the wheel of a truck, they are unable to control their vehicle. Drugs also impair judgment and affect spatial awareness.

    A truck driver who is high may not realize where they are. Some truckers who drive under the influence may not even remember the accident after it happens. Sadly, a collision with a large truck can change the accident victims’ lives forever.

    If you or someone you love has been in an accident caused by illegal drug use, call (469) 998-4069 to speak to a lawyer in Allen, TX. Consultations are always free. There’s no obligation to use our legal services.

    If we take your case, we’ll determine how much compensation you may be owed in an accident settlement. Then, we’ll fight to get it. If we don’t win, you won’t pay.

    How Illegal Drug Use Impacts Truck Drivers

    Truck driving can be a very stressful job. Whether they’re driving a smaller delivery vehicle or a long-haul semi, many truckers work long hours. Their job schedule can be exhausting. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines, truckers may drive up to 14 consecutive hours before they are legally required to take time off.

    Unfortunately, some truck drivers use illegal drugs to relieve stress. They may also believe certain illegal drugs, such as amphetamines, give them more energy and allow them to push past their body’s limitations. Other drivers may simply have problems with addiction.

    Illegal drugs are against the law for a reason. All illegal drugs impact a truck driver’s ability to operate their vehicle safely. However, each substance has unique effects on the user. Here are some of the most common illegal drugs used in Texas and their effects on driving:

    Amphetamines

    Also known as “uppers,” amphetamines are a class of illegal drugs that create an energized feeling. Users may feel as though they have been sped up. Common illegal amphetamines include speed, cocaine, and crystal meth. Some amphetamines are legal prescription drugs, such as Adderall. However, if the driver does not have a prescription or if they are abusing the drug, it is still considered illegal drug use.

    Amphetamines can cause a truck driver to become manic and anxious. This may result in reckless driving behavior. Truckers using amphetamines may drive at illegal speeds and change lanes without checking their blind spots or signaling. They may also misjudge stopping distance. Each of these behaviors can cause accidents.

    Marijuana

    As of 2020, recreational marijuana is still illegal in Texas. Medical marijuana use is only allowed under special circumstances. Most of the conditions that would warrant a medical marijuana prescription would also prohibit a patient from operating a large vehicle like a truck. Therefore, truck drivers who use marijuana in Texas are breaking the law.

    Unfortunately, many drivers believe driving under the influence of marijuana is safer than other illegal drugs. This is not true. Marijuana is the second most common substance found in a driver’s blood after a crash. Multiple studies suggest that drivers using marijuana are twice as likely to be involved in a fatal car or truck accident.

    Like many drugs, marijuana can affect each person differently. Its effects also vary depending on the type of marijuana and the dosage. However, this drug usually induces a feeling of extreme relaxation. It can cause short-term memory loss, inability to concentrate, and reduced coordination.

    A truck driver who is using marijuana may cause accidents because their reaction time becomes much slower. They may also be unable to steer their vehicle away from a hazard in the road. If the driver is tired, marijuana can also make them more likely to fall asleep behind the wheel.

    Opioids

    The opioid crisis has affected millions of Americans and their families. Opioid use is also responsible for many drugged driving accidents each year. In 2016, almost 20% of people who drove under the influence of illegal drugs tested positive for opioids.

    Opioids include drugs like heroin, morphine, oxycontin, and fentanyl. Many opioids are legally prescribed as painkillers. Sadly, many people become addicted to opioids after using them as medication. As with prescription amphetamines, opioids become illegal drugs whenever they are abused or used by someone without a prescription.

    Opioids make users feel numb, tired, and disassociated. They also impair cognitive function. A truck driver using opioids may make a fatal mistake. Opioid overdoses are also very common. In the worst cases, a truck driver on opioids may pass out and cause an accident.

    Psychedelic Drugs

    Psychedelic drugs include LSD, DMT, psilocybin (also known as “magic mushrooms”), mescaline, and other substances that affect the brain. When using psychedelic drugs, people become disconnected from reality. They may experience hallucinations, feel crawling sensations, or become delusional. Each of these effects can cause severe collisions.

    Today, many users practice “microdosing” psychedelic drugs. They consume a much smaller amount of the drug so the effects aren’t as intense. Unfortunately, some people believe they can still drive safely as long as they haven’t taken a full dose. However, psychedelic drugs and driving is always a dangerous combination.

    MDMA

    Also known as ecstasy or molly, MDMA is a designer drug used to induce a feeling of euphoria. Users also report feeling very energized. Unfortunately, MDMA impairs driving ability. A truck driver using MDMA may lose control of their vehicle.

    What to Do if Illegal Drugs Cause an Accident

    If you have been in an accident with a truck driver using illegal drugs, help is available. Contact our Allen, TX lawyers to discuss your options. Your consultation call is completely free. Schedule your appointment today using our online contact form or call (469) 998-4069.

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