Operating a large commercial vehicle is not as easy as one would think. The drivers of these automobiles must go through very specific training in order to obtain their commercial driver’s licenses. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has set requirements that these drivers — whether they reside in Louisiana or elsewhere — must meet before they hit the road. Why? Without proper training, truck accidents are more likely to happen.
What does the FMCSA have to say about commercial driver training? The requirements were last updated in Dec. 2016. As it currently stands, before one can start as an entry-level truck driver, one must take courses and pass exams with a score of at least 80%. The courses must be completed through an approved program. After passing, drivers must complete hands-on training where they show the ability to perform all required skills.
New requirements are to be implemented in 2020. Drivers who pass their courses before then will not be required to comply with these education and training requirements. They will, however, have to take steps to maintain their CDLs and keep their licenses in good standing.
Why does all of this matter? The FMCSA may have set minimum standards for what is required for people to obtain CDLs. They have not, however, set a certain amount of hours that drivers must spend in training — meaning some truck drivers may have spent very little time actually preparing to do their job. A lack of experience and rushed driver’s education can make it dangerous to share the roads with these individuals.
Those who have suffered injuries or lost loved ones in truck accidents in the state of Louisiana may be entitled to seek compensation for their losses. When investigating this type of incident, looking into the driver’s training is a must to determine if inadequate training contributed to the wreck — which can be used to establish negligence against the driver, his or her employer or the training facility. If a training issue is suspected or any other form of negligence is believed responsible for one’s losses, legal counsel may be able to help one seek maximum relief through negotiation or litigation.