Truck drivers in Indiana are required to undergo detailed training and certification courses to ensure they qualify to drive heavy commercial motor vehicles safely and responsibly. However, not all truck drivers receive proper training, and this poses a significant risk for other drivers on the road.
The reason behind this lack of training is that demand for truck drivers is at an all-time high. According to a report by the American Truckers Association (ATA), there is a shortage of about 78,000 truck drivers in America. Consequently, companies quickly train new hires and give them heavy vehicles to maneuver on the road before they have the knowledge or experience to drive them safely.
When an accident occurs, a truck accident injury lawyer in Evansville will investigate all aspects of the collision, including the qualification and training of the truck driver involved. If the investigators realize the driver did not receive proper training, it could be used as strong evidence against them in a truck accident case.
This article will discuss why truck driver training and certification are important, the mandated legal requirements for truck driver training, and the role of training in truck accident cases.
Importance of Proper Truck Driver Training
The value of receiving proper training cannot be overstated because it helps truck drivers adhere to safety measures and operational policies. This step enables truck drivers to avoid liability in terms of legal fees and compensation in an accident.
- Reduced overall costs: Trucking companies that invest in proper training and certification will reduce expenses related to truck accident cases, insurance claims, and downtime due to vehicle repairs.
- Increased efficiency: An adequately trained truck driver is able to work more efficiently, improving delivery times and customer satisfaction.
- Compliance with regulations: Well-trained truck drivers are more likely to comply with federal and state regulations governing the operation of commercial vehicles, which also means improved safety for themselves and everyone else on the road.
If you or someone you love was hurt in a truck accident, having a car accident attorney in Evansville on your side can help you whether the truck driver or truck company was at fault.
Legal Requirements for Truck Driver Certification in Indiana
Indiana has specific legal requirements for commercial truckers before they can obtain their certification. The requirements needed to receive an Indiana Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are:
- Medical examination: Aspiring drivers must take and pass a medical exam to ensure they are physically and mentally capable of handling a heavy commercial motor vehicle.
- Training and education: Indiana requires all CDL applicants to receive minimum training before they obtain their license. The training should cover practical skills and basic knowledge about the road and trucking.
- Clean driving record: Drivers must have a clean driving record of at least three years without any major traffic violations (such as driving under the influence).
Truck accident cases can be complex to handle, especially when it comes to proving if a driver has met all the requirements needed to get behind the wheel of a semi-truck. After consulting a truck accident injury lawyer, Evansville residents can better understand the nature of their cases with regards to truck driver training and certification and the degree of fault of the drivers who hit them.
Truck Accident Cases and the Role of Driver Training and Certification
The following table summarizes the role of driver training and certification in truck accident cases.
| Case Aspect | Properly Trained Driver | Untrained Driver |
| Legal liability | Less likely to be found liable | More likely to be found liable |
| Penalties | Less severe or reduced | More severe or increased |
| Insurance coverage | More likely to be covered | Reduced or denied |
Contact a Truck Accident Injury Attorney in Evansville
Trained truck drivers with the necessary certifications usually, but not always, have the necessary skills, knowledge, and qualifications to operate commercial vehicles responsibly and safely on Indiana roads.
However, accidents still occur, and if they do, you’ll need an experienced lawyer from Wagner Reese Law Firm to fight for you. Our Evansville truck accident injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. They will also strive to get the compensation you deserve for you and your loved one’s injuries and damages. Contact us today and let our team help you in your time of need.
