How Experienced Are The Truckers You’re Driving Next To?
Operating a semi-truck takes skill and experience. However, having a commercial driver’s license (CDL) doesn’t mean drivers are ready to handle such a large vehicle. Here are some reasons why truck drivers may be lacking the training they are supposed to get.
CDL Requirements in Kentucky
The first step in obtaining a CDL license is for prospective drivers to pass the commercial learner’s permit (CLP) test. After passing the learner’s permit test, most CDL testing can begin. To obtain a CDL, prospective drivers must pass a driving test and additional knowledge and skills tests, depending on the CDL class they want to receive.
Truck Driver and Formal Training
Even though prospective truck drivers can go through a formal training program — commonly just a quick three to four-week course, it may not be enough. Truck accidents are still happening on Kentucky roads from a combination of experienced and inexperienced drivers. The latest data from Kentucky State Police (2018) report the following:
- 10,620 trucks were involved in motor vehicle collisions
- 108 of the truck collisions were fatal
- Truck collisions made up 9.8% of all crashes in 2018.
Truck drivers who have lack experience and are put on the road by trucking companies can put everyone on the road at risk. When it comes to making a sudden maneuver to avoid an accident, an inexperienced driver may not react in time or generally not know what to do.
Injured in a Truck Accident? We Can Help
Inexperienced or negligent truck drivers on the road can be potentially dangerous to other motorists putting them at risk of being involved in a severe accident. Often catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries are the result and can also turn deadly. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck crash, we are ready to help you recover the compensation you deserve. When going through a difficult time, Dolt, Thompson, Shepherd & Conway, PSC is here to guide you through the process with understanding and support.
Learn how we may assist you by calling (502) 244-7772 today.