To be a commercial truck driver, an individual needs to be able to operate a truck in a safe manner. Unfortunately, some truck drivers are required to take prescription medications that can cause them to become impaired when operating a semi-truck. If an accident occurs as a result, and you are injured, you may be entitled to compensation.

Steps to Take After an Accident

If you are injured in a commercial truck accident, you will need to seek medical attention as soon as possible. This will help you maximize your recovery from your injuries and will also allow you to prove that your injuries were the result of the semi-truck accident. 

After an accident, you need to contact the police so they can secure the scene and conduct an investigation. If you suspect that the driver was under the influence, make sure to bring this up with the responding police officer.

Prescription Drugs and Driving

Some prescription drugs come with side effects that prevent a driver from safely operating a vehicle. For example, prescription medication can cause a driver to experience blurry vision and they might not be able to see your car before turning and colliding with your vehicle.

If a driver loses control of a vehicle and crashes, they may be held liable for the accident because they were consuming a medication that made it unsafe for them to drive. This is especially the case when the driver is explicitly told not to operate a vehicle while under the influence. 

How to Use This Fact During Settlement Negotiations

To receive compensation for your injuries after a commercial truck accident, you will need to negotiate a settlement with the company that insures the semi. However, an insurance provider will do everything they can to reduce your settlement. 

For example, they may try to argue that you are partially at fault. However, if you are able to prove that the semi-driver shouldn't have been on the road because of their prescription medication, you may be able to place fault squarely on the shoulders of the other driver.

Compensation for Your Injuries

To receive compensation for your injuries, you will need to work closely with a semi-truck accident attorney. This type of professional will be experienced in negotiating with commercial truck insurance providers and can also help you calculate the damages you have suffered as a result of the accident so you can negotiate an adequate settlement.