Commercial Driver Fitness, Cannabis Use, Opioids, and Fatal Crash Analysis

Representative facts: A limousine driver lost control of a vehicle on a steep downgrade, resulting in multiple fatalities. Toxicology testing identified THC, carboxy-THC, and hydromorphone in the driver’s blood. On the pre-employment commercial driver medical examination, the driver had disclosed medical marijuana use.

Issues for expert review:

· What is the significance of the toxicology findings?

· Do the laboratory findings support impairment by cannabis, opioids, or both at the time of the crash?

· Did the medical examiner meet the applicable standard of care and FMCSA requirements when clearing the driver to operate a commercial vehicle?