Denver Truck Driver Drug and Alcohol Use Lawyer
Have you been injured in a truck accident caused by drug or alcohol use in Denver, Colorado? Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers can help when you call (720) 613 9706. We offer a free consultation with a Denver truck accident lawyer, and you will not pay unless we secure compensation for your injuries.
Truck drivers who abuse drugs or alcohol endanger everyone on the road. These crashes are often devastating, leaving victims with serious injuries, lifelong medical needs, or even fatal consequences. If your accident involved an impaired truck driver, you may be entitled to significant compensation and the justice you deserve.
Why Choose Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers After a Drug or Alcohol Truck Accident in Denver?
Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers knows what it takes to fight the trucking industry. Our team has built a reputation for success in tough cases involving impaired truck drivers. With decades of combined experience and tens of millions recovered for clients, our attorneys know how to hold negligent truck drivers and trucking companies accountable.
We offer clients in Denver, CO, the benefit of:
- Decades of combined legal experience focused on injury law
- Tens of millions recovered, including multiple high-value verdicts
- A track record of results in DUI and DWI-related injury claims
- Recognition from top legal groups, including Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, and 5280 Magazine
We understand how hard it can be to recover after a serious truck crash. Our goal is to get you full compensation so you can focus on healing. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation with a Denver personal injury attorney.
Drug and Alcohol Use Among Commercial Truck Drivers
Drug and alcohol use is illegal for truck drivers and strictly regulated by both federal and Colorado law. But despite the rules, some drivers still take risks. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all commercial truckers to undergo regular drug testing, including:
- Pre-employment testing
- Random testing
- Post-accident testing
- Return-to-duty testing
- Follow-up testing
Truckers are subject to a 0.04% blood alcohol content (BAC) limit, half the legal limit for other drivers. Any amount of illegal drug use is prohibited.
Even with these rules, alcohol and drug use remain a leading cause of truck accidents. Drivers may use substances to cope with long hours or fatigue, but doing so makes them dangerous behind the wheel.
How Drug or Alcohol Use Affects a Truck Crash Case
Proving that a truck driver was impaired at the time of your crash can strengthen your claim. It can support your case for damages, influence insurance negotiations, and may even increase the chance of punitive damages.
Trucking companies may also be held liable if they failed to test drivers properly, ignored red flags, or knowingly let impaired drivers operate a vehicle. These facts can make your case stronger and improve your chance of full recovery.
What Damages Can You Recover After a Truck Accident Involving Drugs or Alcohol?
Victims of impaired truck drivers can seek compensation for both financial and personal losses. This may include economic damages such as:
- Medical bills: emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, medication, and therapy
- Lost income: including reduced future earnings due to disability
- Property damage: vehicle repairs or replacement
You might also be able to recover for non-economic damages, like:
- Pain and suffering: including physical pain, emotional distress, and mental trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life: if your injuries affect your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy activities
In rare cases of extreme negligence or recklessness, you might also be entitled to punitive damages.
Ultimately, every case is different. The value of your claim will depend on the severity of your injuries, your recovery time, and the conduct of the truck driver or company.
What if You Were Partly at Fault for the Crash?
Colorado follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you were less than 50% responsible for the accident, you can still recover compensation. However, your total award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you are found 20% at fault and awarded $100,000, you would receive $80,000. If you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages under state law.
A skilled attorney can help minimize your share of fault and present strong evidence to show that the impaired truck driver was the primary cause of the crash.
How Long Do You Have To File a Truck Accident Claim in Colorado?
Colorado law gives you two years to file most personal injury lawsuits. However, if the accident involved a motor vehicle, the deadline may extend to three years. Wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the victim’s death.
Acting quickly is important. Waiting too long can limit your legal options or result in your case being dismissed entirely.
Contact a Denver Truck Driver Drug and Alcohol Use Lawyer
If you were hurt in a truck crash involving drugs or alcohol in Denver, Colorado, Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers is ready to help. Our team has the experience, resources, and drive to hold trucking companies and negligent drivers accountable.
Contact our Denver truck accident lawyers today to discuss your case and protect your right to compensation.
