§ 342
Operation of a common carrier under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Up to 15 years
Transportation & Aviation
None sentenced (FY2025)
Ch. 17A · Common Carrier Operation Under The Influence of Alcohol Or Drugs
Official text prohibited actmental stateif conditionpenaltylegal term
Whoever operates or directs the operation of a common carrier while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance (as defined in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802)), shall be imprisoned not more than fifteen years or , or both.
History: (Added Pub. L. 99–570, title I, §1971(a), Oct. 27, 1986, 100 Stat. 3207 (PDF, 30 MB)–59; amended Pub. L. 100–690, title VI, §§6473(a), (b), 6482(b), Nov. 18, 1988, 102 Stat. 4379 (PDF, 56 MB), 4382.)
Simplified explanation
It is a federal crime to operate, or direct the operation of, a common carrier (a business that transports people or goods for the public, such as a train, bus, or airliner) while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance (an illegal or regulated drug).