How Common is Drunk Driving Among Truckers in Michigan?

An intoxicated driver behind the wheel of a sedan is a threat to everyone close by. But an intoxicated driver behind the wheel of a semi-truck is capable of harming many more innocent people. These heavy commercial vehicles are capable of unspeakable carnage, and have destroyed many lives in the past. But how common is drunk driving among truckers in Michigan? Is this a real problem, or is it a “once in a blue moon” kind of issue? The answer might surprise you.

If you have been hurt by an intoxicated truck driver in Michigan, you might be asking yourself: “Where can I find truck accident attorneys near me?” This is a smart question, because only a qualified attorney can help you hold negligent truck drivers accountable for the injuries they have caused you. With help from one of these legal professionals, you can strive for the best possible results and pursue a fair, adequate financial settlement.

The Likelihood of Truckers Committing DUIs in the United States

According to Global Trade Magazine, truckers in the United States are much less likely to commit DUIs compared to normal drivers (1). While over 20% of these normal drivers in fatal crashes were above the legal limit, just over 2% of truckers were guilty of the same crime. However, it’s worth pointing out that 3.6% of truckers involved in fatal crashes had some alcohol in their system — just not enough to break the law.

The real threat seems to be drug use, and 17% of truckers involved in fatal and injury crashes were intoxicated with some kind of over-the-counter medication. If we take these same statistics and apply them to Michigan, there seems to be a solid chance that any fatal accident caused by a trucker in this state is the result of some kind of intoxication.

Examples of Drunk Trucker Crashes in Michigan

Intoxicated truckers cause crashes on a fairly regular basis in Michigan. On February 20th of 2022, it was reported that an alleged intoxicated driver had been pulled over in Wheatfield Township after driving recklessly (2). In August of 2021, a semi-truck driver was arrested for a DUI and a hit-and-run near Cedar Springs (3). Fortunately, neither of these incidents resulted in serious injuries.

Where Can I Find a Truck Accident Attorney?

If you’ve been searching the Michigan area for a qualified, experienced truck accident attorney, look no further than Neumann Law Group. This firm has assisted many injured motorists over the years, including those who were harmed by intoxicated drivers. With help from Neumann Law Group, you can pursue a fair, adequate settlement that you can use to pay for medical expenses, missed wages, and much more. But it’s imperative that you get in touch as soon as possible, as the statute of limitations may prevent you from suing if you wait too long. Reach out today.

Sources

1. https://www.globaltrademag.com/reducing-incidents-of-impaired-driving-in-the-trucking-industry/
2. https://www.wilx.com/2022/02/21/ingham-county-sheriffs-stop-alleged-intoxicated-truck-driver/
3. https://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/2021/08/semi-truck-driver-arrested-for-allegedly-driving-drunk-after-hit-and-run-crash.html

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Neumann Law Group

Grand Rapids
250 Monroe Ave NW, #400
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Phone: (616) 717-5666
Fax: (231) 221-0051