Commercial trucking companies are vital to the U.S. economy. Not only does the trucking industry employ more than 3.6 million drivers (and other employees), but it would not be easy to move large goods from one place to another without trucks. 

Truck drivers are also responsible for transporting essentials like food and medical supplies. Furthermore, trucking is crucial for national security, as trucks transport military personnel and supplies. 

Truck drivers have to meet certain requirements to work in this key industry. All truck drivers must have a CDL (commercial driver’s license) or the ability to pass the CDL exam. They must have a 10-year driving history and be over 18. Potential drivers must also meet several medical conditions. Drivers who lie about medical conditions will have their CDL declared invalid.

While the vast majority of trucking companies follow these rules, some may try to bend them. For example, a trucking company may allow a driver to operate a truck even though the driver does not have a CDL. 

If an unlicensed truck driver causes an accident, the company and the driver could face severe legal and insurance implications. 

When Unlicensed Truck Drivers Cause Accidents

Driving a commercial truck without the relevant license is a serious offense in the U.S. Even without causing an accident, a driver can be cited for a traffic violation that may result in hefty fines and the suspension of their regular motor vehicle license. 

If an unlicensed truck driver causes an accident, they may face several charges, depending on the severity of the accident. These charges may range from reckless driving to manslaughter if the accident results in fatalities. 

Moreover, if the truck accident caused property damage and injuries, victims can file a personal injury case directly against the driver. The fact that the driver had no license during the accident will automatically strengthen the plaintiff’s case. 

When Trucking Companies Break the Rules

Whether or not the relevant trucking company knew about the driver’s lack of a license, it can still face significant consequences. 

The company may be fined substantially, or the accident victims could sue. Over the long term, the company will suffer reputational damage, which could erode its bottom line and permanently destroy consumer trust. 

How Unlicensed Driver Accidents Affect Insurance Coverage

Even if the trucking company has adequate insurance, the provider may refuse to pay for the accident because the driver is unlicensed. Most insurance companies have a clause in their policy contracts that makes it clear they will not pay for accidents in which the at-fault driver is not licensed. 

Even if the insurance company pays a portion of the damages, the trucking company will likely have to pay more for insurance coverage going forward. 

The Impact on Victims

The individuals most affected by accidents caused by unlicensed truck drivers are the victims. These victims may suffer severe injuries that could permanently impact their quality of life. They may also need life-long medical care and rehabilitation. 

This will likely strain them as they attempt to cope with medical bills and lost wages. Furthermore, auto accidents can cause intense emotional trauma. Often, victims suffer from PTSD, depression, and anxiety for years after an accident. 

The Importance of a CDL

Looking at these scenarios, it is clear why truck drivers must obtain a CDL. 

A CDL ensures that a truck driver knows how to operate a truck safely. Getting a CDL means the driver has completed their driving lessons and test, proving that they know how to drive a truck. 

A CDL also means that the driver has the skills to drive the truck properly and has passed several physical requirements. For instance, drivers are required to have 20/40 correctable vision in each eye. 

Potential drivers with Type 1 diabetes (requiring insulin shots) are barred from obtaining a CDL, but those with Type 2 can. Truck drivers must also have normal blood pressure and blood sugar levels and not suffer from any heart-related diseases. 

Reducing the Number of Unlicensed Truck Drivers

It is estimated that around 7 million people drive without licenses in the U.S., including truck drivers. To make the roads safer, trucking companies and law enforcement must crack down on these drivers and enforce fines and other punishments. 

It is also important for trucking companies and truckers to understand the serious consequences of driving without a license. Working together is the only way to start moving towards reducing accidents and the number of unlicensed drivers.