CHP issues drug warning to truckers after driver was caught with pot during inspection

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is reminding the trucking community to avoid drugs after a recent commercial vehicle inspection uncovered marijuana and paraphernalia.

According to CHP – Conejo Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Facility, an officer followed his nose to uncover drug violations during an inspection.

“During a recent truck inspection, one of our officers noticed the strong scent of marijuana emitting from within the vehicle. Upon further investigation, marijuana was located inside the cab and the driver was placed out of service for 24 consecutive hours,” CHP said.

While cannabis is legal for both medical and recreational use in California, commercial vehicle drivers are restricted from use at the federal level.

Troopers shared federal regulations regarding drug use for reference:

CFR 392.4(a) No driver shall be on duty and possess, be under the influence of, or use any of the following drugs or other substances:

(1) Any 21 CFR 1308.11 Schedule I substance

(2) An amphetamine or any formulation thereof (including, but not limited to, “pep pills”, and “bennie’s”)

(3) A narcotic drug or any derivative thereof; or

(4) Any other substance, to a degree which renders the driver incapable of safely operating a motor vehicle.

CHP shared several photos of the illicit drugs and paraphernalia discovered during the inspection.