Trucking Companies’ Obligations to Hire Qualified Truckers

Driving a commercial truck weighing 80,000 pounds is a big responsibility. It is crucial that trucking companies only allow qualified truck drivers behind the wheel of their trucks. When they fail to meet their obligations and their negligent trucker causes a truck accident, they could be liable to compensate the victim for their injuries.

What Are a Trucking Company’s Obligations Before Hiring a Truck Driver?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has strict requirements that trucking companies must follow when hiring truck drivers to ensure they are qualified to drive a truck. Rules they must follow include obtaining:

• Driving records. Trucking companies must obtain an applicant’s driving record from every state where they held a license or permit within the last three years and verify their prior and current license.
• Employment records. A trucking company must review and verify the trucker’s employment history.
• Criminal records and drug and alcohol violations. An employer must review the applicant’s criminal records for criminal offenses and drug and alcohol violations. Trucking companies must also contact the former employer to confirm that the trucker did not violate rules on alcohol or drugs while they were on the job.
• Drug test. Applicants must pass a pre-employment drug test. A trucking company also has to require their truckers to undergo drug testing periodically.
• Medical certification. A truck driver must be examined by a certified medical examiner and provide the employer with a medical certification before they are hired. They must obtain new medical certifications every 24 months.

Can a Trucking Company Be Liable if an Unqualified Trucker Causes a Crash?

If the trucking company failed to follow FMCSA’s rules when hiring a trucker who caused your truck accident due to their lack of qualifications, you may have a negligent hiring claim or other claim against the trucking company. The experienced truck accident attorneys at Tavss Fletcher can thoroughly investigate the cause of your crash and can go up against the insurance company for all the damages you deserve. Call our Norfolk office at 757-625-1214 or fill out our online form to schedule your free initial consultation today to learn more about how we can assist you.