Trucks play a vital role in commerce across Montana. Trucks are used to transport large quantities of goods to various locations ensuring there are products on shelves and the various companies have the parts they need to produce their own products. They also provide many jobs. While they are very important, they also need to share the roads with vehicles that are much smaller than the trucks.
Due to this size difference between the trucks and the other vehicles when they are in truck accidents, the people in those vehicles can suffer catastrophic injuries. These injuries can be permanent in some situations and permanently change their lives. Therefore, it especially important for truck drivers to drive carefully, pay attention and be in the right mind when they are driving. This includes being well rested and also ensuring they are not under the influence of alcohol.
Alcohol limits for truck drivers
The legal limit for most drivers on the road is a .08 BAC. However, for truck drivers the legal limit is a .04 BAC. In addition to the lower legal limit for truck drivers, they also cannot consume any alcohol within four hours of being on duty, which includes more than just driving the truck. Being on duty also includes waiting at a terminal, inspecting the truck, loading the truck and any other activity while being on duty. If a driver is suspected of consuming alcohol within four hours, the driver needs to wait 24 hours before going back on duty.
There are many trucks that travel on Montana roads every day. It is important that the drivers are not under the influence of alcohol because truck accidents can be devastating for the victims. If people are struck by a truck and the driver even had a BAC over .04 they may be liable to compensate the victim for the damages they cause. This compensation can be very valuable as the victims piece their lives back together. Experienced attorneys understand the importance of this compensation and may be a useful resource.
