You can't always tell if a truck driver was on drugs, whether legal or illegal, but there are sometimes signs that may point to drug use.
- Slurred or incoherent speech
- Blood shot or glassy eyes
- Unusual sweating
- Visible agitation or nervousness (beyond what would be acceptable following an accident)
- Dilated pupils
- Inability to walk steadily (not related to an injury they may have sustained)
Again, it can be difficult to truly tell if someone is on drugs after an accident merely because an accident can be a very traumatic event. You can't be sure their reactions are because of the accident or because of drug use (or possibly both). If you truly suspect the truck driver is under the influence, notify the police offer or officers at the scene of the accident about your suspicions. They will be able to conduct the appropriate tests if they feel there is reason to.
It may be frustrating if you can't figure out whether or not the driver is on drugs, but there is a silver lining: a truck driver involved in an accident that causes bodily injury or death is federally obligated to submit to a drug and alcohol test soon after the crash. Your Texas trucking collision attorney will be able to get copies of the lab reports and use them to build your case against the driver and anyone else from the truck company who may be held liable.
Were you or a loved one injured in a trucking collision in Texas, Arkansas, or Oklahoma? Contact Girards Law for a free consultation at 888-897-2762.