Truck accidents can be much more complicated than typical car accident cases. One reason for this discrepancy is that factors can affect truck accidents that are not present in car accident cases. One factor is whether the trucking company negligently hired the driver who was responsible for the truck crash. Trucking companies can be held responsible for accidents caused by their negligent hiring practices, and our San Antonio truck accident lawyer is here to help you hold them accountable.
Truck Driver Shortage Details
One reason why trucking companies may hire unqualified or dangerous drivers is because there is a significant shortage of qualified truck drivers. The American Trucking Association estimates that there is currently a shortage of 60,000 drivers and that the demand for truck drivers drastically exceeds the supply of qualified drivers. If dramatic changes do not occur, this shortage is expected to grow even more to a 160,000 deficit by 2028.
Various factors contribute to this significant shortage. Truck driving is a hard job, so it can be difficult to lure people to a career where they will spend many hours on the road and away from their families each week. Additional contributing factors include:
- An aging driver population
- A surging freight economy
- Increases in freight volumes
- Lack of women drivers
- Competition with other blue-collar careers
- Health difficulties
What Are Trucking Company Responsibilities When Hiring Truck Drivers?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires trucking companies to take certain actions to ensure the drivers they hire are qualified to do the job, including:
- Reviewing the driver’s driving record – Trucking companies must conduct a thorough review of the driver’s driving record to ensure they do not have infractions and hold a valid commercial driver’s license.
- Conducting a road test – Truck companies must evaluate driver skills and abilities before hiring them by conducting a road test with potential hires.
- Conducting an investigation – Truck companies are also responsible for conducting a comprehensive investigation into a driver’s background and employment history. This step can uncover criminal records, accidents, and unsafe practices that may pose an unnecessary risk.
- Obtaining a valid medical examination certificate – Commercial truck drivers must be physically able to perform their job duties. They must obtain a medical examination certificate from a certified medical source that confirms the driver is physically fit to safely operate the vehicle in line with regulatory standards.
If trucking companies fail to adhere to these regulations, they can be held responsible for accidents these drivers cause.
Let George Salinas Injury Lawyers Handle Your Truck Accident Claim
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident in which negligent hiring could have played a part, the experienced San Antonio accident attorney at George Salinas Injury Lawyers can help. We can demand personnel records and other documents to explore if negligent hiring contributed to the accident. Contact us online to schedule a free consultation.