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Delaware Trucking Company Negligent Hiring Lawyers

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September 18, 2015

When Trucking Companies Ignore Hiring Guidelines, Dangerous Drivers Take The Wheel

The demands on commercial truck drivers are significant. Long hours on the road away from home, maneuvering oversized vehicles, and meeting strict deadlines are just a few of the stresses these professional drivers face. Even a momentary break in concentration can lead to a devastating accident, which damage cargo, wreck vehicles and, in some cases, cause injury or death to other drivers on the road. In order to limit the likelihood of such crashes, trucking companies must be vigilant in their hiring process.

Indications Against Hiring a Truck Driver Applicant

It is not unusual for companies to perform background checks on prospective employees. Whether or not these issues prevent a company from hiring an individual is completely discretionary, however. For commercial trucking companies, their hiring practices are a matter of public safety.  Therefore, it is crucial they do all they can to ensure they employ safe, responsible drivers. Trucking companies should be wary of hiring drivers with:

  • A history of frequent traffic collisions or violations
  • Substance abuse issues
  • DUI convictions
  • Certain medical conditions
  • A lack of appropriate licensure

A trucking company should not put truck drivers with a history of any of these problems behind the wheel of a commercial truck. If they do, they should be held accountable for these negligent hiring practices which result in needless danger.

Other Employment Considerations

In addition to these red flags, trucking companies are required to follow certain guidelines before hiring a driver. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that carriers verify the driver holds a current commercial driver’s license. Additionally, carriers should investigate the driver’s employment history and performance for the three preceding years.

Finally, the driver must meet certain physical requirements and pass a road test administered by a representative from the trucking company to ensure he “possesses sufficient driving skill to operate safely.”

If you or someone you love has suffered injuries in a truck accident, negligent hiring could have played a part. Contact the experienced legal team at Morris James, LLP for a free, confidential case analysis. Fill out our online contact form for a prompt response from a member of our truck accident team.

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