Is Driving with Coronavirus as Dangerous as Driving Drunk?

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Research indicates that driving with a cold or flu could be as dangerous as driving drunk. CBS News reports that when British researchers evaluated the driving behaviors of those suffering from the cold or flu, these drivers had slower reaction times, were more likely to brake, drove more erratically than other drivers on the road, and were less aware of their surroundings. Researchers found that those who drove while sick with the cold or flu saw a 50% reduction in their driving ability, the equivalent to driving drunk. In the era of COVID-19, what does this all mean? The New York Times reports that Texas and Florida have reported the largest single-day jump in coronavirus cases in the nation. Texas alone reported 2,000 new cases in just a two-day period. It is possible that people might be getting behind the wheel sick. As more people get sick and drive, the risks to other drivers on the road might be growing.

More alarming is the fact that some commercial drivers may be pressured to work even though they are sick. What is a truck driver to do if he or she gets sick with the coronavirus? Some drivers who first come down with symptoms may be far from home and may be under pressure to get their deliveries in on time. While long-haul truck drivers may spend a great deal of their time alone, driving, there are also times when these drivers may be vulnerable to infection. Drivers may come in contact with store workers, dock workers, and other truck drivers who may be sick. It is possible to spread the coronavirus without showing symptoms, so drivers could be at risk of contracting and spreading the virus.

If you or someone you love was hurt in a truck accident or car accident in which a driver may have been sick, you may have the right to sue the truck company, or truck driver for your injuries. Drivers have a responsibility to stay home if they are not feeling well. If a truck driver chose to continue to work while sick with COVID-19, he or she could be putting not only himself or herself at risk, but also the general public at risk. The Cooper Law Firm is a truck accident law firm in Texas that may be able to assist you with negotiating with insurance companies and fighting for your claim if you’ve been hurt in a truck wreck.

Centers of Disease Control Recommendations for Truck Drivers and COVID-19

The Centers for Disease Control has issued recommendations that truck drivers and truck companies are being asked to follow to protect the safety of truck drivers and the general public. Drivers are being asked to notify their supervisors if they are sick or if they are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. Drivers should each have a plan in place about what they will do if they become sick while on the road, and truck companies should have a plan in place for their workers should they become sick while driving. Drivers are being asked to comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration rules regarding hours of service. Getting a good night’s rest is important to protecting your health. Maintaining social distance while at work, wearing a face covering when around other people, washing your hands frequently and disinfecting your cab and other surfaces can also prevent the spread of disease. When possible, drivers are being asked to use paperless and touch-free modes of payment, to avoid shaking hands, and to keep the truck well-ventilated.

Companies that have sound policies in places for their workers may be less likely to see outbreaks of COVID-19 among their workers. It is everyone’s responsibility to take steps to stay healthy. When drivers choose to drive while sick, they can end up in accidents. The Cooper Law Firm is a truck accident law firm in Texas that may be able to assist you if you have been hurt in a truck accident due to the neglect or negligence of another driver or truck company.

Seek Damages for Your Losses

Were you in a truck accident and do you believe the driver might have been suffering from COVID-19? Research indicates that drivers who are sick may not be as alert and attentive behind the wheel. The Cooper Law Firm is a truck accident law firm in Texas that may be able to assist you if you believe your accident was the result of negligence on the part of the driver or truck company. You may also be able to seek damages from the truck company’s insurance if you have been hurt. Contact the Cooper Law Firm today or reach out to USAttorneys.com to get matched with a lawyer at the Cooper Law Firm who may be able to assist you with your truck accident claim.

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