What Should You Do If You Suspect A Trucker Is Driving Under the Influence?

Request Free Consultation

Truckers are a necessary part of our country’s economy and infrastructure. The most critical part of a trucker’s job is being able to transport goods across the country safely. But what if a trucker decides to make the reckless decision of driving under the influence?  The legal team at Miller & Hine knows how scary it can be when navigating the road with truckers even in the best circumstances. Our hope is in this guide you’ll learn exactly what recourse you can take if you believe a trucker is driving under the influence.  Also, if you’re facing life after being the victim of a trucking DUI accident, you can always contact our team of St. Louis truck accident lawyers at Miller & Hine for a free consultation by calling (314) 408-5708.

Legal BAC Limits For Truck Drivers In Missouri

According to the Missouri Department of Revenue, the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for a commercial motor vehicle operator (CMV) is 0.04. 

For drugs, there is a no-tolerance policy for any kind of non-prescribed drugs – meaning the presence of any amount is enough to medically disqualify a driver from driving, as required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). 

Testing For Controlled Substances

In Missouri, drivers and CMV operators operate under implied consent laws. As explained by RSMo 302.745, “A person who drives a commercial motor vehicle within this state is deemed to have given consent, subject to the provisions of this section, to a chemical test or tests of his or her breath, blood, saliva or urine for the purpose of determining his alcohol concentration, or the presence of controlled substances in his or her system.”

That means that a CMV operator has no legal means to refuse a drug or alcohol test. 

How Can I Tell If A Trucker Is Driving Under The Influence?

While you can’t know for sure if a trucker is driving under the influence without a test, there are some behavioral signs that could signal they are using substances. 

Examples include:

What Should I Do If I Suspect a Truck Driver Is Inebriated?

First, it is paramount to be as safe as possible when interacting with a trucker operating their CMV under the influence. Your safety is most important – so don’t do anything that may endanger you while reporting the potential violation.

If you encounter any behaviors that make you suspect that a trucker is driving under the influence, you can call the authorities to make a report. If you’re on a highway in Missouri, dial *55 from a cellphone to reach the Missouri State Highway Patrol. If you’re in a city, dial 911.

On the call, the dispatcher will likely ask you questions about the vehicle. If it’s safe to do so, report the license plate number and any other supplementary details that will help an officer identify the truck. 

Need More Guidance? Contact Miller & Hine Now!

Our skilled St. Louis personal injury lawyers are ready to listen to your case and give you the advice you need. Contact us at (314) 408-5708 or book an appointment online.