Trainee Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Can Operate Without a CDL
With the recent COVID-19 pandemic, new trainee drivers who do not possess a Commercial Driving License (CDL) can operate a commercial motor vehicle for three months during the coronavirus crisis. There are two conditions to this new rule: the trainee driver must have already passed their CDL driving test, and there must be a CDL-holding driver in the truck. The new provision is meant to prevent a shortage of drivers and keep supply chains moving. But it also puts inexperienced drivers behind the wheel -- where they will be driving extremely long hours on unfamiliar routes.
Different emergency rules have been implemented during this pandemic to keep our stores, hospitals and emergency supplies well-stocked and our communities safe during the coronavirus lockdown. Can they have unintended consequences? Sure. Stress and fatigue are a dangerous combination, and when inexperienced drivers get behind the wheel, the high-pressure need to deliver these essential goods could result in a deadly lapse in judgment, concentration and ability.
According to the FMCSA, 87 percent of truck crashes are caused by the truck driver making a poor decision, not recognizing a dangerous situation or failing to perform. Putting drivers in highly stressful situations and expecting them to drive safely on less rest and sleep is a recipe for a surge in devastating truck crashes.
If you or someone you love was hurt in a truck crash during the coronavirus crisis, you should know how to protect yourself after a collision.
If you’re seriously injured in a wreck, don’t wait to go to the emergency room. If you’re not sure how severely injured you are, call ahead of time before going in. If you’re worried about payment, remember that medical bills can be included in a truck crash settlement or lawsuit.
If you can, call the police and other first responders after a crash. A police report is a critical piece of evidence.
If you’re physically able, keep a journal that documents how much pain you’re in, the work you miss and the other ways the accident has impacted your life. This will help an attorney understand the severity of your injuries and the value of your truck accident case.
When you’re grateful just to be alive after a truck crash, you shouldn’t have to worry about fighting the trucking company and/or insurance company for compensation. At Bordas & Bordas, we fight for you so you can focus on your recovery. We can also communicate with you remotely and keep your case moving forward while protecting you from unnecessary risk of contracting coronavirus.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash with a truck during the coronavirus crisis, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experienced personal injury team at Bordas & Bordas. We’ll meet with you in a free, confidential consultation to help you understand your options and what to do next. We’re working every day during the current coronavirus crisis and are able to handle all communications remotely.
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