Inadequate driver training is one of the causes of truck accidents. Some drivers on the road are not adequately skilled to handle the massive trucks they are operating, or are not prepared for hazards. They are more likely to cause an accident.
So, how should a truck driver be trained?
Meet set regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets truck driver training regulations. To obtain a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), one must pass special skills and knowledge testing.
After passing the written tests, a driver receives a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). They are required to hold the CPL for at least 14 days before their ability to safely operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) is tested. After passing the skills test, a driver receives their official CDL.
Now, a question comes to mind: If passing these strict tests is mandatory, why are there inadequately trained truck drivers on the road?
Some training schools focus on passing the exams. Therefore, a driver may hold a CDL, but is not truly proficient at operating an 80,000-pound vehicle. The FMCSA introduced Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations in February 2022 to ensure applicants are proficient in the required skills to curb the problem.
Nonetheless, there are still some drivers who come from low-quality truck driving schools (CDL mills).
Thus, it’s vital for trucking companies to offer additional, specific training to ensure their drivers are properly trained and qualified. But this is not always the case. The trucking industry has a critical driver shortage problem. Consequently, some companies are rushing new hires to fill vacancies. Besides, some companies avoid ongoing training to cut costs.
An inadequately trained truck driver may struggle to manage their vehicle, not react safely to an emergency or fail to notice a serious maintenance issue. If you are injured by such a driver, consider legal guidance to hold negligent parties responsible for their actions.