Truck accidents are some of the most serious accidents on the road. Whether it is because their vehicles are larger, because they are often traveling at high speeds, or because the drivers are often fatigued or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, serious truck accidents have become commonplace in newspapers across the country. Over the course of the last few months, a new method for drug testing semi-truck drivers has been proposed to increase the accuracy as well as the look-back period that the test covers. In fact, the newly proposed hair-follicle testing can detect whether a subject used substances up to 90 days in the past, whereas urine testing can only detect drug use up to a few weeks back.
However, according to one news report, the new test, which examines a subject’s hair rather than their urine, is coming under sharp criticism from many in the industry, including the AFL-CIO’s Transportation Trades Department (TTD), which is essentially the truck drivers’ union. The TTD makes several claims against the implementation of hair-follicle testing.
First, the TTD claims that the testing method has not yet been approved by the Department of Health and Human Services, and as a result there are no established protocols for its use. They also point out that urine testing has been successfully used for years, and there is no reason to change the testing method to one that is not as scientifically reliable.
The second basis for the TTD’s attack on hair-follicle testing is that it is racially biased. According to the TTD, the hair-follicle testing is racially discriminatory because evidence of substance use will show up for a longer period of time in those with coarser hair follicles. It remains to be seen how and in what circumstances the new testing method will be implemented.
Drug Use in New Mexico Truck Drivers
Unfortunately, drug and alcohol use among truck drivers is not all that uncommon. Whether it is a stimulant used to stay awake for long periods of time, or whether it is for a more recreational use, truck drivers are caught driving under the influence at an alarming rate.
When a truck driver causes a serious or fatal accident, they are often given a drug test to determine if they were under the influence of any substances at the time of the accident. If the test results come back positive, the injured party may have a strong case for financial compensation against the driver. To learn more, contact an experienced New Mexico truck accident attorney.
Have You Been Injured in a New Mexico Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been involved in any kind of New Mexico truck accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for all that you have been put through. Of course, the truck driver, their employer, and the insurance company will not likely concede liability and will almost certainly deny your claims initially. Contact one of the dedicated attorneys at the Fine Law Firm to discuss your case and what rights and remedies you may be entitled to. Call 505-889-FINE today to set up your free consultation.
More Blog Posts:
Foggy Conditions Blamed for Massive Truck and Bus Accident, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, October 7, 2015.
New York Times Reports on Prevalence of Trucking Accidents, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, September 21, 2015.