I was injured in a Florida commercial truck accident. The driver was taking a prescription medication that made him drowsy. Do I have a case?

A:

Like most Americans, many commercial truck drivers use prescription or over-the-counter drugs on a daily basis. However, when these legal drugs have side effects that can impair a truck driver's ability to safely operate his vehicle, there can be tragic consequences. One-quarter of Palm Beach truck accidents involve a driver under the influence of a legal or illegal drug.

Medications that can impair driving ability include over-the-counter medications for allergies, coughs, colds, flu, pain and weight loss and prescription drugs for common conditions like anxiety, depression, diabetes, heart problems, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and pain. These drugs can slow reaction time, cause drowsiness, affect concentration, and have side effects like blurred vision, dizziness, fainting, nervousness and nausea. When a driver takes multiple prescriptions, there may be unpredictable side effects.

Because medications for certain medical conditions can affect driving, all U.S. truck drivers must pass a physical exam and be issued a medical card before they can operate a commercial vehicle. This medical card must be renewed every two years. The trucking company is responsible for making sure that every driver has a valid medical card, is drug free, and is able to drive safely.

If you were injured in a Florida large truck accident involving a medicated driver, you may be eligible for compensation. A West Palm Beach 18-wheeler injury attorney can help you fight the trucking companies and get the compensation you deserve. For more information, contact Florida truck accident injury lawyer David Glatthorn at 866-413-5525.