Semi-trucks and similar vehicles are significantly larger and heavier than passenger cars, making them more difficult to control and increasing the likelihood of catastrophic injuries in a collision. These factors are why state and federal regulators implement drug tests for commercial drivers. Unfortunately, some truck drivers choose to use drugs even when they know they could face a drug test for DOT. This behavior puts everyone on the road in severe danger.
What Is a DOT Drug Screen?
A DOT (Department of Transportation) drug screen is a federally required drug test for commercial truck drivers. The drug screening usually involves a urine test that checks the truck driver’s system for substances like marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, and PCP. Failing a DOT drug screen can lead to a driver’s immediate removal from driving duties, mandatory substance abuse treatment, and the possible loss of their commercial driving privileges.
DOT Drug Test Requirements for CDL Drivers
Under federal DOT rules, commercial interstate truck drivers (drivers whose routes cross multiple states) must take drug tests at the following times:
- Pre-Employment – Drivers must pass a drug test before they are permitted to drive a commercial vehicle.
- Post-Accident – Testing is mandatory under federal law after fatal crashes or when the driver receives a citation related to a collision with injuries or a disabled vehicle. In these circumstances, drivers must take an alcohol test within 8 hours and a drug test within 32 hours.
- Random Testing – DOT regulations allow random drug tests year-round. Truck drivers may sometimes need to undergo testing while off-duty at home. These tests must be unannounced.
- Reasonable Suspicion – If a trained supervisor observes signs of drug or alcohol use, they can order a truck driver to take a drug test based on the driver’s appearance, speech, behavior, or smell.
- Return-to-Duty – After a positive test or refusal, a driver must complete a monitored return-to-duty test before resuming their duties.
- Follow-Up Testing – After returning to duty, commercial motor vehicle drivers may undergo at least six unannounced tests over 12 months under federal regulations, with the possibility of continued testing for up to five years.
Alabama CDL License Requirements & Drug Testing
Along with a pre-employment drug test, drivers applying for a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) in Alabama must complete the following required procedures:
- Anyone applying for their first CDL or wanting to upgrade their CDL to a higher class must hold a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for 14 days before applying for their CDL. The CLP is valid for up to 180 days.
- CDL applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- First-time CDL applicants must also go through federally mandated entry-level driver training from an approved provider.
- Finally, CDL applicants must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam conducted by a certified medical examiner on the FMCSA’s National Registry.
What To Do If Hit by a Truck Driver Under the Influence
Follow these steps if a truck driver hits you and you suspect there is drug use involved:
- Call 911 to report the crash
- If possible, ask the truck driver for their name, contact info, insurance details, and vehicle registration information.
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Do not post about the accident on social media
- Save your medical records and any bills related to the crash
- Contact an Alabama truck accident lawyer
Contact Our Alabama Truck Accident Attorney for Help
Collins Law, LLC, has the experience and resources to help prove that the truck driver who hit you was intoxicated so that you can fight for fair compensation. Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
