Truck drivers hold immense responsibilities when operating their vehicles on Georgia’s roads. These massive, heavy-duty vehicles require skilled operators who possess the proper training and qualifications to ensure the safety of everyone around them.
Unfortunately, some employers fail to properly vet their drivers, allowing unqualified employees to get behind the wheel. When this happens, the consequences can be devastating, leading to serious accidents that forever change victims’ lives. In such a case, the assistance of an experienced Atlanta truck accident attorney can be invaluable.
What Qualifications Do Truck Drivers Need in Georgia?
In Georgia, truck drivers must obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to legally operate a commercial vehicle. The process for obtaining a CDL involves several steps, beginning with meeting basic requirements: being at least 18 years old, holding a valid Georgia driver’s license, and completing the required entry-level driver training.
After meeting these requirements, aspiring truck drivers must earn a commercial instructional permit by passing a written knowledge exam. With the permit in hand, drivers can schedule a road skills test with the Georgia Department of Driver Services after holding the permit for at least 14 days.
Upon passing this test, drivers must take another vision test, pay a fee, and receive their Class C CDL. As drivers gain experience, they can upgrade their licenses to operate larger and heavier vehicles, depending on the type of truck and cargo they plan to transport.
How Driver Inexperience Can Lead to Truck Accidents
When trucking companies hire unqualified or inexperienced drivers, serious accidents can happen. These drivers may lack the skills and knowledge necessary to safely operate their vehicles, putting themselves and others in danger:
- Unfamiliarity with the vehicle: Inexperienced drivers may not be fully comfortable with the size, weight, and handling characteristics of their trucks and can struggle to maneuver them.
- Inadequate training on safety procedures: Without proper training, drivers may not know how to properly secure cargo, conduct pre-trip inspections, or respond to emergencies on the road.
- Difficulty navigating challenging road conditions: Inexperienced drivers may struggle to safely operate their vehicles in adverse weather, heavy traffic, or on steep hills and winding roads.
- Poor decision-making skills: Lack of experience can lead to poor judgment calls, such as following too closely, changing lanes improperly, or failing to yield the right of way.
- Inability to handle mechanical issues: Inexperienced drivers may not recognize the signs of mechanical problems or know how to properly address them.
Who Is at Fault for an Accident Caused by an Unqualified Driver?
If you have been injured in an accident caused by an unqualified truck driver, you may be able to hold both the driver and their employer liable for your damages. Trucking companies have a responsibility to ensure that their drivers are properly trained, licensed, and qualified to operate their vehicles safely. When they fail to do so, they can be held accountable for their negligence.
A truck accident attorney can help you investigate the driver’s qualifications and the trucking company’s hiring and training practices to determine if they contributed to the accident. Leveraging this information, they will craft a compelling case in your favor to prove your right to compensation.
Seek Justice with Monge & Associates by Your Side
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by an unqualified truck driver in Atlanta, the attorneys at Monge & Associates can help. We will investigate the driver’s background, hold the trucking company accountable for their negligence, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us at (888) 477-0597 for a free consultation today.