The Top Driving Mistakes Made by CDL Holders
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders go through a difficult process to obtain their licensure. Once achieved, drivers are held to a higher standard within the community, both on and off the clock. Whether in their company vehicle or their personal vehicle, their attention to their driving must be impeccable for risk of losing their license, jeopardizing both their employment and their future. What are some of the top mistakes made by CDL holder’s that can result in traffic violations and put their licensure in danger?
Attempting a Difficult Parking Spot to Avoid the Extra Walk
Did you know that most trucking accidents occur at truck stops? Some of these do involve truckers trying to pull into a closer and tougher parking spot than utilizing the ample space available a few feet away. Large trucks are not known for having a small turning radius, and because of this, you should allow yourself the proper room for maneuverability to avoid a collision. While one accident may not lose your licensure, several just might. Remember that truck and trailer tandem on different tracks and the repair of someone else’s vehicle may be close to $15,000.00, dependent on the amount of damage.
Taking Downhills Too Fast
This mistake is one that even seasoned truckers make on occasion. Between the weight of the truck and load and the pitch of the downhill slope, vehicles become closely related to a battering ram. Luckily, many roads prone to this issue come equipped with a runaway truck ramp. However, it helps to remember that it is better to go too slow than too fast in the beginning because you can always upshift, but never downshift in a slope. Not only can this cause an accident, failing to maintain a proper speed for the road conditions can result in a citation from an officer.
Failure to Maintain Proper Following Distance
Much of this also has to do with other drivers on the road cutting off truck drivers, but it is the responsibility of the driver then to back off to maintain a reasonable stopping distance. 18-wheelers have the ability to haul tens of thousands of pounds, not to mention the weight of the steel truck as well. Drivers must give themselves plenty of room to stop as well as be aware of open spaces at all times in case you need an escape route to avoid catastrophe or a ticket.
Improper Vehicle Maintenance
Part of operating any vehicle is to make sure that the equipment is properly cared for and is in safe operating order before every trip. During an unexpected inspection, a citation may be issued for faulty equipment. Additionally, a tire blowout can cause a disaster on the roadways. Everything from the engine to the tires and the load being carried need to be in proper order to ensure that your truck is not the reason for an accident.
If You Get in an Accident, Hire an Attorney
You of all people understand how much your livelihood depends on your licensure. Dependant on your company policies and regulations of drivers, one accident or citation may put your career at risk. If you have received a citation against your CDL, do not pay the citation. Doing so admits guilt. If you would like to discuss your options with a proven Glendale Heights, IL CDL citation defense attorney, contact Stringini & Garvey, P.C. today for your free initial consultation at 630-834-9595. We proudly serve clients in Maywood, Glendale Heights, Lombard, Bloomingdale, and all surrounding Chicagoland areas.
Sources:
https://www.truckinfo.net/trucking/stats.htm
https://www.truckdrivingjobs.com/faq/truck-driving-accidents.html
http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/drivers/drivers_license/CDL/cdl.html
