Three Signs a Trucker is Not a Safe Driver

The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle (FLHSMV) reports that an average of 35,000 large trucks are involved in accidents in the state each year. A fully loaded truck can weigh as much as 40 tons. It must be driven safely. Trucking companies need to hire (and train) safe drivers. Here, our Miami truck accident lawyer highlights four signs that a truck driver is not safe.

1. Limited Experience as a Trucker 

Experience matters. Operating a large commercial truck is not an easy job. It is imperative that truckers have adequate experience behind the wheel. Indeed, truck driving requires specialized training and a high level of skill to operate safely. Inexperienced drivers may struggle with tasks like navigating tight turns, managing blind spots, or handling a fully loaded rig in adverse traffic conditions. A trucker with limited miles behind the wheel is more likely to make critical errors. 

2. Aggressive Behavior Behind the Wheel 

Safe truckers are drivers who are defensive. They must maintain a calm, controlled presence on the road. Speeding, tailgating, weaving between lanes, or failing to yield are all signs of dangerous driving habits. Aggressive behavior in a vehicle as large as a semi-truck greatly increases the risk of a catastrophic, even fatal crash. If a trucker is acting like they’re in a race, they’re not prioritizing safety. Aggressive driving is dangerous driving. 

3. A History of Traffic Violations 

A trucker’s history matters. Indeed, past behavior is often the best predictor of future actions behind the wheel. A trucker with a history of speeding tickets, DUIs, or other violations may pose a danger to everyone on the road. These records suggest a pattern of ignoring traffic laws and taking unnecessary risks. All reputable trucking companies should check for a clean driving history before they hire a driver.

A Truck Company Can Be Liable for Hiring Unsafe Drivers

 Unsafe drivers are more likely to be involved in a serious crash. A trucking company can be held legally liable for hiring or retaining an unsafe driver who causes a crash. Indeed, employers and companies that rely on contractors in this industry have a duty to ensure that their drivers are properly qualified, trained, and have a clean driving record. If a company fails to conduct background checks, overlooks red flags, it may be considered negligent. After an accident, a negligent truck company can be held legally responsible.

Note: Florida is a no-fault state for commercial truck accidents. A mild or moderate truck crash is generally a no-fault claim—meaning a driver’s initial claim is through their own PIP provider.

 Contact Our Miami Truck Accident Lawyer Today

At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our Miami, FL truck accident attorneys fight aggressively for justice. If you were hurt in a crash with an unsafe trucker, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free, no obligation case assessment. Our firm has offices in Miami and West Palm Beach, we fight for the rights of trucking accident victims all across South Florida.

Source:

flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2023.pdf