Truck drivers do far more than the average driver when it comes to traveling from one location to the next. They must balance road conditions with the much heavier and longer vehicle, the load within it (or the lack of one), and fatigue. Proper training is essential to ensuring drivers make that trip safely. Trucking accidents caused by untrained drivers take the lives of innocent victims every year. Speak with a compassionate Jackson commercial truck accident lawyer about your case today.
Federal Regulations for Truck Drivers
Prior to operating a large truck, drivers must obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL). This requires a phase of learning and training, testing, and certification. A driver will need to pass both a knowledge test and undergo a driving record screening that reviews their driving history over the last 10 years. They must also demonstrate physical fitness for operating a truck. Residency requirements often apply as well.
Each state sets specific rules for CDLs, but there are also federal regulations in place. This includes:
- Drivers must be at least 21 years of age
- Drivers must be physically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle and demonstrate their ability to drive that vehicle safely
- Drivers must be able to speak and read English well enough to understand all signage and signaling on the roadway, fill out reports and records, respond to official questions, and interact with the general public
- Drivers must hold a valid CDL issued by a state and pass a road test or the equivalent to operate across state borders
- They must provide their employers with a list of motor vehicle violations they have had or a statement that shows they have not been in any such accident
These tests and requirements aim to reduce the risk of a driver not being able to control and manage the vehicle in difficult situations. Skill comes from practice and proper training.
The Risks of Trucking Accidents Due to Untrained Drivers
When drivers lack skills, for any reason, they create an increased risk of causing accidents and injuries. A lack of experience often leads to mistakes such as:
- Speeding or operating the vehicle at unstable speeds on roadways
- Driver fatigue, due to the inexperience in recognizing the signs that they need to stop
- Improper lane changes, including not signaling or providing enough warning prior to changing lanes
- Navigating turns and steep inclines on challenging roads
- Spacing, distancing out to avoid tailgating
- Poor handling in difficult weather conditions
- Ineffective management of construction zones
- Improper management of cargo
- Not managing blind spots properly
- Distracted driving
- Lack of or missing critical elements of pre-trip checklists and inspections
- Not knowing how to handle a tire blowout or other breakdown safely
These are very real skills that commercial truck drivers must have to operate on the roadway safely. Because these vehicles are on the roads for longer hours and often in all types of weather, the risk of serious injuries is high when a truck driver fails to control the vehicle.
How a Truck Accident Lawyer Helps
Victims of trucking accidents caused by untrained drivers have the right to pursue financial compensation from the truck driver and, in many cases, their employer. Seeking compensation requires having evidence to prove that the driver was a risk due to their inexperience or lack of training. With the help of a truck accident lawyer, who can gather such data, it is easier to do. Contact us online or call today to schedule a free case consultation.