In order to drive a large semi-truck or tractor trailer, a driver must first hold a Commercial Driver’s License, commonly known as a CDL. In order to obtain a CDL, a driver must undergo a rigorous training program to ensure they are capable and knowledgeable in handling trucks. Trucks are massive vehicles that may cause mass destruction should an accident occur, and therefore it is extremely important that a driver know what to do on the road at all times. Because of this, inexperienced or improperly trained truck drivers pose a threat to all other drivers and passengers on the road. If you have been injured in an accident because a driver was not adequately trained or did not hold the proper CDL, you deserve compensation for your injuries. Call a dedicated trucking attorney in Gwinnett County to help you recover.
Operating and maneuvering large trucks can be complicated and requires practice and knowledge. Not everyone who knows how to drive a regular motor vehicle can automatically jump into a semi-truck and know how to drive safely. Training includes learning how to:
- Inspect vehicles prior to driving
- Properly secure and balance loads
- Park in various situations
- Recognize hazards and proper response to each kind of hazard
- Avoid accidents with other motor vehicles
- Maneuver vehicles in different road and/or traffic situations
These are only a sampling of the skills necessary to earn a CDL. Additionally, drivers who wish to operate certain kinds of trucks may require advanced training and additional licensing by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. For example, these special types of licenses apply to:
- Drivers of hazardous materials
- Drivers of double or triple trailers
- Drivers of tanker trucks
If a driver hauling hazardous materials is inexperienced or improperly trained and causes an accident, the results may be serious and even fatal. If you have been involved in an accident with an inexperienced truck driver, call Shane Smith Law at (980) 246-2656. A truck accident lawyer in our office can help you receive the settlement you deserve.