Houston Impaired Driver Lawyer
Impaired driving is one of the most dangerous behaviors any motorist can engage in. It is so risky, no one ever expects anyone to do it, especially commercial truck drivers. Unfortunately, the drivers of tractor-trailers and big rigs are sometimes even more likely to drive while impaired than other motorists. It is no secret that impaired drivers cause very serious accidents, and victims will sustain the worst types of injuries. In the most tragic of cases, victims do not survive the crash. If you or someone you love has been hurt, our Houston impaired driver lawyer can advise you of your legal options.
Why are Commercial Truck Drivers So Likely to Drive While Impaired?
Although there is no excuse for it, commercial truckers drive while impaired for many reasons. Firstly, they are under a great deal of pressure to deliver the goods they carry in a short amount of time. If they do not meet their deadlines, it could hurt their profits and even put their career at risk. This is very stressful, which could lead to a truck driver abusing certain substances. Many truckers also think alcohol or drugs will help them stay awake, so they can stay on the road longer.
Truck driving is also a very lonely job. Truckers spend a great amount of time alone on the road, and even when they stop to rest, they are in their trucks alone. This loneliness can add to the stress truckers feel, which may make them more likely to drive while impaired.
How to Prove a Truck Driver was Impaired
Unless the truck driver is visibly intoxicated, you may not know if the trucker is impaired. Even if you suspect it, you may wonder how you can prove it. A Houston impaired drivers lawyer will know what evidence to collect, which may include:
- The trucker’s criminal record: A lawyer will conduct a background check to determine if the truck driver has been charged with or arrested for impaired driving in the past. If so, a court may think it reasonable to suspect the driver was impaired at the time of the accident.
- Prior moving violations: A truck driver may have been stopped for having an open container of alcohol in their vehicle but was never arrested for it. A lawyer will investigate any prior moving violations the truck driver may have on their record, and if they caused an accident.
- Chemical test results: If the trucker was asked to take a chemical test, such as a breathalyzer, at the scene of your accident, this can show the driver was impaired.
- The police report: A lawyer will obtain a copy of the police report that may indicate the truck driver was negligent or otherwise impaired.
- Medical Records: Sometimes a driver’s medical records may show evidence of overuse of prescribed medication as a stimulant to stay awake.
Our Impaired Drivers Lawyers in Houston Will Collect the Evidence You Need
At Gilde Law Firm, our Houston impaired drivers lawyers know how to prove the driver that hit you was impaired, so you collect the maximum compensation you deserve. Call us today at 800-973-3106 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.