Large trucks and commercial vehicles are common on Florida highways. Day and night, large semis, tankers, and other goods-carrying trucks cross the state to deliver products to Tallahassee retailers. While many trucks and their operators make it to their destinations safely, some cause violent and sometimes deadly accidents with smaller personal vehicles.

The causes of truck accidents in the United States cover a range of grounds. However, one reason that some truck accidents occur relates to how truck drivers are trained to operate their rigs. This post will discuss some of the ways that a lack of proper training can result in injury-causing truck accidents.

Licensure for commercial vehicle operation

Driving a private vehicle like a sedan or pick-up truck requires a person to attain a driver’s license through the state. Similarly, drivers who wish to operate large rigs and commercial trucks must get the right licenses to drive them. In Florida, that can involve knowledge and skills tests, as well other mandatory assessments.

The knowledge and skills needed to drive a large truck are different than what a private driver requires for their licensure. Trucks are bigger, maneuver differently, and require more time to break than their smaller counterparts. When a driver fails to obtain the proper licensure to operate a large vehicle, they may make a dangerous or even deadly mistake.

Lack of understanding regarding vehicle maintenance or equipment

In some cases, a driver may have the right license to operate but still not have the right knowledge to be safe. A driver may be asked, or choose to drive, a vehicle that they are not familiar with. Unfamiliarity with necessary maintenance and signs of maintenance needs could leave a driver in a dangerous situation if their vehicle fails.

Truck drivers must take many steps to keep themselves and others safe. Just like other drivers, truck drivers can succumb to distractions, driver while exhausted, and push the limits of speed in order to bring their trips to faster ends. When they make bad decisions, they can inflict life-altering harm on Tallahassee victims. This post offers no legal advice and encourages victims of truck accidents to speak with trusted motor vehicle accident attorneys.

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