Trucking Under the Influence

Trucking Under the Influence is an investigative series by Heavy Duty Trucking examining the impact of illegal drug use by drivers amid current trends of marijuana legalization, opioid addiction, a rise in cocaine use, and changes in driver drug-testing regulations and technology.

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September 10, 2019

Trucking Under the Influence — Does trucking have a drug problem?
Image: HDT graphic

2 min to read

In a new era where where deregulation of marijuana is a reality in many states, an opioid epidemic is hollowing out blue-collar America, and drivers are feeling more pressure than ever to stay productive, alert and safe, the trucking industry is having to take the drug issue head-on.

From the Pages of Heavy Duty Trucking Magazine:

Part 1: Truckers, Drugs and Safety

Amid national trends such as the rapid rise of marijuana legalization and a continuing opioid abuse crisis, trucking faces some disturbing trends of its own.

Part 2: 18-Wheelers and Weed

The stigma around recreational marijuana usage is increasingly fading away and it is even being touted for its medicinal uses. How will a safety-focused trucking industry deal with this new cultural norm?

Part 3: Digging Into Truck Driver Drug Use

A recent study found a higher rate of drug use by prospective drivers than was previously believed to be the case.

Part 4: Is There a Better Way to Drug Test?

DOT-required urine testing has known shortcomings, but in an industry faced with difficulty finding and keeping qualified drivers, some worry that stricter drug-testing protocols will only make the situation worse.

• Bonus Web Feature: 7 Things You Need to Know About the New Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

Part 5: The Road Back

Is a single failed drug test or alcohol screening enough reason to terminate an otherwise valued truck driver as a “lifestyle” drug user or unsalvageable alcoholic who must never drive a truck again?