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Marijuana and 18-wheelers: a dangerous and illegal combination
Driving an 18-wheeler while under the influence of marijuana is illegal and poses significant risks, both for the driver and others on the road.
- Federal Law Prevails: Though marijuana is legal in several states, federal law, which governs the trucking industry, still classifies marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance and prohibits its use by commercial drivers. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (.gov) specifically states that marijuana use is prohibited for drivers operating commercial motor vehicles, regardless of state laws.
- Safety Concerns: Marijuana can impair cognitive function, reaction time, judgment, and coordination, all critical for safely operating a large commercial vehicle. Studies have linked marijuana impairment to increased crash rates.
- Drug Testing: Commercial drivers are subject to various drug tests, including pre-employment, random, and post-accident screenings. These tests can detect marijuana in a driver's system for an extended period, even after the driver no longer feels impaired.
- Severe Consequences: A positive drug test for marijuana can lead to serious repercussions for CDL holders:
- Immediate disqualification from driving a commercial motor vehicle.
- Suspension or revocation of their Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
- Mandatory substance abuse evaluation and potentially lengthy rehabilitation programs.
- Significant fines and potential criminal charges, including DUI.
- Loss of employment and difficulty finding future work in the trucking industry.
Important Considerations:
- CBD Products: Even CBD products, derived from hemp, can contain enough THC to trigger a positive DOT drug test.
- Medical Marijuana: A medical marijuana card does not exempt CDL drivers from the federal prohibition on marijuana use.
In Conclusion: Marijuana use while driving an 18-wheeler, or at any time for CDL holders, carries significant legal, professional, and safety risks. Prioritizing highway safety means avoiding marijuana use and adhering to federal regulations.
Rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III would classify it as a drug with a moderate-to-low potential for dependence. Schedule III drugs are still controlled substances and require a prescription for medical use. Therefore, recreational use would still be prohibited.
Impact on truckers
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has stated that rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III would not alter its drug testing requirements for safety-sensitive employees, including truck drivers. Both the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the American Trucking Associations (ATA) are concerned about potential safety risks and emphasize the importance of continued testing. Some truckers support rescheduling, believing it would allow off-duty medical use, arguing for consistent regulations and the right to use marijuana on days off.
In summary
Even if marijuana is rescheduled to Schedule III, the DOT's drug testing requirements for truck drivers are expected to remain in effect. Truck drivers would still be prohibited from using marijuana, regardless of purpose, and any use could lead to severe consequences for their employment and CDL.