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Truck Driver Negligence

The majority of trucking accidents are due to driver negligence.  Drivers may simply be ignoring traffic laws, or may be improperly trained as a commercial truck driver.

Commercial Drivers Licenses Required for Truck Drivers

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required to operate a tractor-trailer for commercial use. A CDL is required in the United States to operate any type of vehicle which:

  1. has a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 lbs. or more for commercial use;

  2. transports quantities of hazardous materials that require warning placards under Department of Transportation regulations; or

  3. is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.

Formal training is not mandatory to obtain a CDL.  A prospective driver must pass a written test on highway safety and a test about different parts of a truck, as well as a driving test.

Semi Truck Driver Negligence

Many types of truck driver errors can lead to semi-trailer accidents, such as:

  • Driver fatigue

  • Speeding

  • Drunk driving

  • Driving under the influence of drugs

  • Lane changes without signaling

  • Forcing a vehicle off the shoulder

  • Running a red light or stop sign

  • Calling or texting while driving

  • Inattention

  • Following too closely (tailgating)

Help if You’ve Been Injured by a Licensed Commercial Truck Driver
At O’Hanlon, McCollom & Demerath, our lawyers acknowledge that your injuries may be due to a negligent truck driver.  Handling numerous trucking cases makes us exceptionally well-qualified to handle cases involving the most negligent semi truck drivers.  If you suspect you have an injury due to the negligence of a commercial truck driver and need to talk to a legal professional, contact us today.

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