Hurt by a Drunk Truck Driver in California: LA Trucking Accident Lawyer

If you have been injured in an accident involving a drunk commercial truck driver in California, the law is very clear on what your rights to compensation may be. A commercial DUI in California is more stringent and can be extremely costly to the driver in terms of fines and the potential of losing his or her license to operate a commercial vehicle.  Victims who are seriously injured by a drunk truck driver need to call our experienced Los Angeles drunk truck driver accident lawyer to learn how we can protect your rights to compensation.

California State Law

Under Vehicle Code 23152(d), California’s law concerning commercial DUIs, it is a crime to drive any commercial vehicle with a blood alcohol level of .04% or higher. A commercial driver also commits a DUI when he or she is convicted of driving under the influence of any drug.

Although the DUI process for a commercial driver is similar to that of any other driver under California law, the consequences are more severe with longer periods of suspension and the driver losing his or her commercial license after a second offense.

Furthermore, if the drunk trucker causes an accident resulting in injuries, the offense can be prosecuted as a felony which can result in fines and severe punishments.

Federal Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has enacted regulations that prohibit truck drivers from operating a commercial vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.  Specifically, 49 CFR section 392.4 prohibits a truck driver from operating a vehicle with any alcohol or intoxicant in their system.  Whereas 49 CFR section 392.5 prohibits a truck driver from having even a .01 BAC or consuming alcohol within four hours of starting a driving shift.  This is one of, if the strictest drunk driving law in the United States.

Ask Our California Drunk Driving Lawyers for Help

If you have been injured in an accident involving a drunk truck driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Getting legal advice is critical for injury victims of drunk driving accidents caused by commercial vehicles. A Los Angeles drunk truck driver accident lawyer will be able to help you understand the law as it pertains to commercial vehicles and represent your interests with regard to an injury claim. For more information and a FREE case review, contact us today at (888) 588-1777.  We are ready and willing to help.