Truck Accidents and Inexperienced Drivers in Illinois

 Posted on March 08, 2024 in Personal Injury

Truck accidents caused by inexperienced drivers are a significant concern on the nation’s roads. This issue has become even more alarming given the recent data showing that the United States is facing a truck driver shortage. According to a recent study, the country needs to employ more than 80,000 truck drivers this year to compensate for the current shortage. By 2030, it is estimated that the shortage will spike to more than 160,000 drivers. This shortage has led to hiring inexperienced drivers who lack the training to operate these massive vehicles, resulting in more truck accidents and loss of life. If you or your family has been impacted by a commercial truck accident, contact an Illinois personal injury lawyer to find out what legal recourse you may have.

Issues with Inexperienced Commercial Truck Drivers

Truck drivers who have just passed their commercial driver’s license (CDL) test often lack the necessary skills, knowledge, and judgment to operate large commercial vehicles safely. These drivers may have limited training and minimal real-world driving experience, making them more prone to errors and at risk for misjudging events on the road. They may struggle to navigate challenging driving conditions, handle complex maneuvers, and respond effectively to emergencies.

Inadequate Training

One common factor in truck accidents involving new drivers is inadequate training. Many trucking companies may prioritize filling driver positions quickly, leading to rushed training programs or insufficient training resources. Inexperienced drivers may not receive comprehensive instruction on vehicle operation, defensive driving techniques, cargo handling, and safety protocols. As a result, they may be ill-prepared to handle the demands of “life on the road.”

Inability to Maneuver

New truck drivers may be unfamiliar with the specific challenges of operating large vehicles. Maneuvering a tractor-trailer or other type of commercial truck requires skills different from driving a passenger car, such as managing blind spots, maintaining proper following distance, and executing wide turns. Without proper training and experience, novice drivers may struggle to adapt to these differences.

Overestimate Their Ability

Another contributing factor to truck accidents involving inexperienced drivers is overconfidence or complacency. Some novice drivers may underestimate the complexity of operating a commercial truck, especially after completing basic training. Over time, they may become overly confident in their abilities, disregarding safety precautions and taking unnecessary risks on the road. This overconfidence can lead to reckless driving, such as speeding, tailgating, or improper lane changes.

Distraction and Fatigue

Distraction and fatigue are also significant concerns among inexperienced truck drivers. Long hours behind the wheel and irregular schedules can lead to driver fatigue, impairing judgment, reaction time, and overall alertness. Distractions such as mobile phones, GPS devices, or onboard technology can easily divert attention from the road.

Contact a Lombard, IL Personal Injury Lawyer for Legal Assistance

If you have been injured in a truck accident, contact a DuPage County, IL truck accident attorney to learn your legal options for recovering damages for the losses your injuries have caused. Call Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices at 630-932-9100 to schedule a free case evaluation.