Improperly Trained Truck Drivers Can Cause Catastrophic Accidents
Driving a large truck is more challenging than driving a regular commuter vehicle. If you've never tried it yourself, you may not be familiar with all of the challenges involved in maneuvering such a large vehicle. Given the nature of the job, special training and skills are required of a large truck driver. That's why it's necessary to have additional experience and training before being able to legally drive such a vehicle.
The lawyers of Chanfrau & Chanfrau have worked on truck accident cases throughout the greater Port Orange area. In a number of instances, a lack of training or experience by the truck driver contribute to the collision. Let's explore these issues in more detail.
Testing and Licensing for Large Truck Drivers
Anyone who drives a large truck is required to get a commercial driver's license, or CDL. These licenses much be obtained through a trucking school or through training programs specifically for a CDL.
Prospective truckers are required to first obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP), take a written exam and driving test, in addition to other kinds of training to ensure they are ready for the road in the real world. The potential CDL holder will also have their previous driving record examined to help ensure the driver is safe and responsible.
Licensing and proper testing ought to help drivers understand what to do while they're on the road. Yet they are not a guarantee of safety.
The Dangers of Poorly Trained Truck Drivers
Poorly trained truck drivers pose similar dangers as poorly trained drivers in general. When a driver does not have the necessary skills while they are on the road, they cause accidents themselves or contribute to collisions occurring around them.
More importantly, large trucks are difficult to drive. If a driver encounters a difficult situation on the road, it's important that they know what to do in order to avoid losing control of the truck, rolling over, jackknifing, and so forth. For instance, truck drivers should be aware of their blind spots, how to check for motorists in adjacent lanes, and how much distance is required for stopping and turning. This basic training can prevent injuries and save lives.
Only proper trained drivers will know how to respond to an emergency, which is why getting a CDL from a proper program is so crucial.
Gaining Enough Driver Experience
In addition to proper driver training, experience is crucial when hiring a truck driver. Companies should consider how long a driver has been in the business, their driving record, and what they have been able to accomplish on the job.
If a company hires a truck driver who is inexperienced, these drivers ought to be given less demanding tasks than more seasoned drivers. This is just a common sense way to ensure new truck drivers are given a chance to earn more road experience, and avoid serious dangers if they are given too much too soon in terms of the difficulty of a job.
Learn More About Truck Accident Lawsuits
If you or someone that you know has been seriously injured due to the actions of an inexperienced truck driver, we encourage you to contact an experienced accident and injury attorney today. The lawyers of Chanfrau & Chanfrau are here to help you in your time of legal need.