Even the most responsible drivers can violate trucking regulations for controlled substances simply because they donโt know the law. Check out some of the more common laws truck drivers can overlook below.
Resting in the sleeper berth after using alcohol.
Safety regulation 49 C.F.R. ยง 392.5 prohibits a driver from having alcohol in his or her system while having โphysical controlโ of a commercial motor vehicle, meaning you have immediate access to the keys and your truck is nearby. This also applies while taking a 34-hour restart.
Failing to proceed immediately to the testing site.
49 C.F.R. ยง 382.305 requires a driver to proceed to โthe test site immediatelyโ once being notified of selection for random testing.
Failing to report for a random controlled substance test while off duty.
Truck drivers are subject to random controlled substance testing while off duty, including while at home or on a vacation.
Using someone elseโs medication.
If a truck driver tests positive for certain drugs, they are automatically disqualified from operating a commercial vehicle until they consult with a substance abuse professional.
Using marijuana legally.
If a driver tests positive for marijuana in a DOT-mandated random test, they become disqualified to drive professionally until they fulfill the recommendations of a substance abuse professional. They will also be disqualified if they test positive in a pre-employment drug test.
Failing to respond to the medical review officer.
In a case where the medical review officer contacts the employer, the employer must tell the driver to contact the MRO to discuss test results. Do not pass up this opportunity if you have a good explanation for the positive test.
