There’s a lot of talk about truck drivers who are exhausted, overworked, and in a rush, but what about those who are physically ill?
We’re not talking about a little cold here. We’re talking about drivers who have serious medical conditions yet are still found behind the wheels of big rigs.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations state that a person should be medically disqualified as a commercial truck driver if he or she has any of the following:
- Diabetes that requires insulin (specifically diabetes mellitus, which can cause disorientation or unconsciousness)
- Any heart condition that is often accompanied by collapse, congestive heart failure, or other debilitating symptoms
- High blood pressure accompanied by other conditions that could disrupt job performance
- Respiratory issues that could interfere with job performance
- Epilepsy or any other disease often accompanied by unconsciousness
- Mental or nervous disorders that could affect job performance and lead to a Maryland truck accident
- Any disease that affects the muscular system and often leads to muscle weakness or degenerative muscular issues
- Poor vision even with corrective lenses or the inability to see traffic light colors
- Poor hearing even with a hearing aid
- Uses any habit-forming drugs
- Is known to be an alcoholic
- Loss or impairment of a limb that would be used to perform the job (however, drivers may request a skill test to gain an exemption)
A truck driver who knowingly gets behind the wheel after being diagnosed with any of these serious conditions is willfully breaking the law. If you suspect that the driver who caused your Maryland truck accident had any of these medical conditions, you should mention it to your Maryland truck accident attorney.
For more information regarding the regulations and unique nuances of truck accidents, call Nickelsporn & Lundin at 800-875-9700.