Trucking Companies Employing Drivers Without CDL License: Albuquerque Trucking Accident Lawyers
Learn What Happens When Trucking Companies Do Not Hire CDL License Drivers from Our Albuquerque Trucking Accident Lawyers
Even with a trained and competent truck driver, a large commercial vehicle can be a very difficult vehicle to drive. In fact, even with an experienced driver a commercial vehicle could still be very dangerous. This is why truck drivers must acquire a CDL, or a commercial driver’s license. This requires an applicant to complete a book course, pass a written test, pass a practice skills test, and shadowing another truck driver. CDL drivers are also well-regulated under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This includes the conduct of truck drivers, their equipment, their cargo, and even through routes. The regulations and the hurdles to become a CDL truck driver are great, including the fees.
However, the requirements of the FMCSA apply to trucking companies as well. Our Albuquerque trucking accident lawyers explain what happens when trucking companies do not hire CDL truck drivers. This can result in serious ramification for trucking companies. Victims of New Mexico trucking accidents who are seriously injured or wrongfully killed may be able to receive compensation if a trucking company hires a driver without a CDL. If that non-CDL driver causes a trucking accident, the driver and the company may be at fault and negligent. In fact, it may automatically be evidence of negligence. Learn how the Caruso Law Offices, P.C. could protect your rights to compensation.
What is a CDL?
A CDL is a commercial driver’s license which is required to operate a large commercial vehicle like an 18 wheeler, tractor trailer, tanker, flat bed, box truck, or other big rig. Nearly every truck driver operating a commercial vehicle needs a CDL. The purpose of a CDL is to ensure that truck drivers have the requisite knowledge, skill, experience, and other ability to handle these commercial vehicles. While a CDL certainly helps, a CDL does not automatically mean that a truck driver is safe. Even CDL truck drivers, including very experienced ones, can cause serious New Mexico trucking accidents.
Why Trucking Companies Need to Employ CDL Drivers
Trucking companies must hire CDL drivers. Not only does this make sense because CDL drivers have to pass a course, written test, skills test, and shadow truck drivers, but it is also the law. A truck driver must have a CDL to operate a commercial vehicle. The trucking company must ensure that a truck driver complies with the requirements of the FMCSA and the state that is operating pursuant to 49 CFR section 390.11.
If a trucking company allows a truck driver to not have a license but still operate a commercial vehicle, and that unlicensed truck driver causes a trucking accident, the trucking company may be liable solely by virtue of violating this FMCSA regulation.
Ask Our Portland Trucking Accident Lawyers for Help with FMCSA Violations
If you or a loved one are seriously injured due to FMCSA violations, or if a loved one is wrongfully killed, ask our Albuquerque trucking accident lawyers to help you. We represent victims in smaller passenger vehicles or truck drivers who were harmed by other truck driver’s negligence. Call to schedule your FREE appointment with our lawyers at the Caruso Law Offices, P.C. by dialing (505) 883-5000.
We handle causes throughout New Mexico, including Las Cruces, Santa Fe, Roswell, Cuervo, Rio Rancho, Clovis, Farmington, Hobbs, Albuquerque where our office is located, and anywhere else throughout New Mexico. Please call to schedule for FREE appointment by dialing (505) 883-5000 or contact us through our website’s easy to use and convenient contact box available here.
