Missouri Truck Accident Blog

CDL Suspension Can’t Combat All Negligence on the Road

Not just anyone can be a commercial truck driver. Extensive training is required, driving exams must be passed, and certification must remain in good standing in order for a truck driver to legally control a large big rig or semi-tractor trailer truck. The Missouri Department of Revenue, in association with the Department of Motor Vehicles and federal guidelines, sets the educational requirements that are necessary for an individual to become legally certified to operate commercial vehicles on Missouri’s roads and highways.

A Missouri commercial driver’s license (CDL) may be suspended for a number of reasons. Driving a vehicle while intoxicated, accumulating too many points on one’s driving record for reckless driving practice, refusal to submit to a drug or alcohol test, or failing to stop at the scene of an accident, are all reasons why a motorist should not be allowed on the road. In particular, these reckless practices are significant factors in determining suspension of a CDL. In order to curb such suspension, the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act (MCSIA) was passed to help “ensure higher training standards for commercial drivers and reduce the number of accidents involving commercial motor vehicles.” Furthermore, roadside inspections are randomly conducted in order to ensure that the trucks themselves are in compliance with weight restriction laws in reference to load size.

With such stringent laws in regard to commercial vehicles and their operation, it would be logical to assume that instances of reckless driving resulting in personal injury are a relatively rare occurrence. Unfortunately for Missouri motorists, reckless driving is fairly commonplace on our roads and highways. Even though their CDLs may be expired or suspended, negligent truck drivers may continue to operate their rigs, all so that deliveries can be made and salaries can be met. In some instances, a trucking company may be aware that a driver’s CDL has been suspended, but turn a blind eye to the matter. In any event, negligent business practice amongst truckers and trucking companies does not equate to safety on Missouri highways. All instances where reckless driving practice leads to personal injury should be appropriately dealt with by a legal professional.

If you have been injured in a traffic accident with a large truck in Missouri, and the truck driver’s CDL was invalid in some way, you’ll need a skilled St. Louis truck accident attorney on your side to examine the details surrounding your accident so that proper blame can be attributed to negligent parties involved. At Page Cagle, our personal injury lawyers have the experience necessary to successfully litigate your truck accident case. We will see to it that your rights are not infringed upon in a court of law. Call us today at 866-620-5757 for a free consultation.

Source article: http://www.dmv.org/mo-missouri/cdl-faqs.php