3 FAQs About Truck Accidents Caused by Lack of Driver Training

Have you noticed that virtually every tractor-trailer in traffic has a “We’re Hiring” sign nowadays? The country is facing a major shortage of drivers, and according to the American Trucking Associations, it’s only expected to increase.

If current trends continue, there will be a shortage of 175,000 drivers by 2024. When you consider just how much the United States relies on the trucking infrastructure—it supports nearly every industry—it becomes clear why this figure is so troubling.

Perhaps even more alarming is the fact that the shortage has prompted motor carriers to streamline their on-boarding process and, in some cases, to condense the training they provide to new employees. They’re also more inclined to hire young drivers with little experience. Naturally, this is a recipe for disaster.

If you or someone you love was hurt in a truck accident caused by lack of driver training, here are the answers to some questions you may have about pursuing compensation for the resulting damages:

1. How Can I Prove a Truck Accident Was Caused by Lack of Driver Training?

A resourceful personal injury attorney can help you gather evidence to prove the trucker didn’t receive adequate training prior to the accident. Such evidence might include:

• The trucker’s original job application and resume;
• The motor carrier’s hiring procedures;
• The trucker’s CDL date of issue and driving record; and
• The curriculum of any driving courses that the trucker completed.

2. What Kinds of Damages May Be Recoverable Following a Truck Accident in Florida?

If your claim is successful, you may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses;
• Property damage;
• Lost wages and benefits;
• Loss of future earnings;
• Alternative transportation;
• Home care;
• Domestic help;
• Child care;
• Home modifications needed to accommodate any disabilities;
• Pain and suffering;
• Loss of enjoyment in life; and
• Emotional distress.

Additionally, if you’re married, your spouse may be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium. This refers to the loss of love, companionship, affection, and intimacy that your injuries have caused.

3. Who Might Be Liable for a Truck Accident Caused by Lack of Driver Training?

Generally speaking, motor carriers are responsible for hiring experienced drivers and supplementing their training as needed. As such, they’re the ones who will be liable if they breach this duty by putting inexperienced drivers on the road—unless they outsourced their training to a trucking school. If a motor carrier relies on a third party to train their drivers, that institution could be liable for any accidents caused by unqualified graduates.

Call 772-266-5555 to Discuss Your Case with a Florida Truck Accident Attorney

If you were hurt in a truck accident that was caused by an inadequately trained driver, contact Weston & Pape to determine the most strategic way to proceed. We don’t require any money upfront, nor do we charge attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Call 772-266-5555 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free case evaluation with a truck accident lawyer in Florida.