Colburn Law

What Is Adequate Training for Truck Drivers?

Driving a commercial truck is a demanding job that requires a unique set of skills and knowledge. These massive vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, making them much more challenging to operate than passenger cars.

Truck drivers must also navigate diverse road conditions, weather patterns, and traffic situations while adhering to strict safety regulations and delivery schedules. Given these immense responsibilities, drivers must receive comprehensive and adequate training to protect not only their own safety but also the safety of others on the road.

What Type of Training Is Required for Truck Drivers in Washington?

In Washington state, truck drivers must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate a commercial vehicle legally. The type of CDL required depends on the class of vehicle the driver intends to operate. Each class of CDL comes with its own training requirements:

• Class A: Drivers must complete a minimum of 160 total hours of training, which encompass classroom instruction, street driving, backing maneuvers, and proficiency development.
• Class B: Drivers must complete at least 80 hours of training, including 40 hours of classroom instruction, 14 hours of street driving training, 8 hours of training in backing maneuvers, and 10 hours of combined lab training, range training, and observation.
• Class C: Drivers must complete at least 80 hours of training, including 40 hours of classroom instruction, 14 hours of street driving training, and 8 hours of proficiency development.

On-the-Job Training for Commercial Truck Drivers

In addition to the minimum training requirements for obtaining a CDL, trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that their drivers are adequately prepared for the job. By investing in comprehensive on-the-job training, trucking companies can help their drivers develop the skills and knowledge needed to operate their vehicles safely and efficiently.

Many companies provide on-the-job training programs that cover topics such as defensive driving techniques, proper cargo securement, and hours-of-service regulations. These programs may also include ride-alongs with more experienced drivers, simulator training, and ongoing safety meetings.

How Inadequate Training Can Lead to an Accident

When truck drivers do not receive sufficient training, the consequences can be devastating. Inadequately trained drivers may lack the skills and knowledge needed to handle challenging road conditions, properly secure cargo, or respond to emergency situations.

For example, a driver who has not been properly trained in defensive driving techniques may be more likely to cause an accident by following too closely, failing to adjust their speed for weather conditions, or not anticipating the actions of other drivers. Similarly, a driver who has not received adequate training in cargo securement may be at risk of losing their load on the highway, putting everyone else on the road at risk.

Injured by an Inexperienced Trucker? Contact Colburn Law Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident caused by inadequate driver training, an expert Seattle truck accident lawyer at Colburn Law can fight for you. Our firm understands the complexities of truck accident cases and can help you hold the negligent driver and their employer accountable. Contact us at (206) 919-3215 for a free consultation and begin your journey to justice today.