What Happens to the Career of a Semi Truck Driver After a Wreck?
A semi-truck accident can change a driver’s career in an instant. Whether the crash is minor or severe, truck drivers often face professional and financial consequences. Depending on the circumstances that occurred in the crash, a driver can find it difficult to find a new job, lose their commercial driver’s license (CDL), or even face legal action.
That’s why it’s important that drivers are prepared for potential challenges and take steps to protect their careers.
What is the Immediate Aftermath of a Trucking Crash?
After a truck accident in Reno, a driver must follow standard post-accident procedures. This includes reporting the accident to law enforcement, their employer, and their insurance provider.
Many trucking companies also require a drug and alcohol test immediately after an accident, especially if there are injuries or major property damage. Drivers must provide a clear and accurate accident report.
If a driver is found at fault, the results of the investigation can impact their job security.
Some employers may suspend a driver until the investigation is complete, while others may terminate employment if the accident involved negligence, reckless driving, or a serious safety violation.
What Impact Does an Accident Have on a CDL and Driving Record?
A truck driver’s commercial driver’s license (CDL) is their most valuable asset.
After an accident, points may be added to a driver’s motor vehicle record (MVR), depending on the severity of the crash and the traffic violations involved. Having too many points on a CDL license can lead to having it suspended or revoked, leaving the driver unable to work.
Some violations, such as driving while under the influence (DUI), speeding, or leaving the scene of an accident, can result in an automatic CDL suspension.
Even if a driver is not entirely at fault, multiple accidents on record can make it difficult to maintain employment in the trucking industry.
What are Some Employment Challenges After a Trucking Accident?
Most commercial trucking companies conduct a thorough background check before hiring drivers.
Having a serious accident on their driving record can raise red flags for future employers. Some companies refuse to hire a driver if they’ve had a recent wreck, especially if the crash involved reckless behavior.
For drivers with a clean record before the accident, the impact may be less severe. Some companies may still be willing to hire them, but they might offer lower-paying or less desirable routes.
Insurance companies also play a role in hiring decisions. If an insurance provider considers a driver too high-risk, some trucking companies may choose not to hire them to avoid increased insurance costs.
Legal and Financial Consequences
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Traffic Safety Facts reports that truck crashes took the lives of nearly 6,000 people in the US in 2022. Another 160,609 were severely injured.
If a trucking accident results in injuries or fatalities, the driver may face legal action. An injured party might file a civil lawsuit against the truck driver, the company, or both. If a driver is found liable, they may have to pay damages, which can be financially devastating.
Criminal charges may be filed as well, especially if the crash involved reckless driving, driving while impaired, or if federal trucking regulations are violated. Even if no legal action is taken, truck drivers may face higher insurance premiums. Some companies require drivers to carry personal liability insurance, and after an accident, those costs can skyrocket.
This increased financial burden can make it difficult for an independent owner-operator to continue working in the industry.
Rebuilding a Trucking Career After a Wreck
While a truck accident can damage a driver’s career, it doesn’t always mean the end of the road.
Many drivers need to find ways to restart their driving careers after a wreck. Attending safety courses or defensive driving training classes can help improve a driver’s record and demonstrate a fresh commitment to safe driving.
For those struggling to find work, smaller trucking companies or local delivery jobs may offer opportunities to get back behind the wheel.
Some drivers transition to non-driving positions within the industry, as well, like dispatching, logistics, or fleet management. Others may even choose to start their own trucking businesses, allowing themselves more control over their career and choices.
At the Law Office of Matthew L. Sharp, we understand that a truck accident can have lasting effects on a driver’s career, from employment challenges to potential legal consequences. While some drivers recover and find new opportunities, others may find it difficult to get back on their feet in the industry.
A truck driver’s best bet to protect their careers is to prioritize safety, maintain a clean driving record, and take proactive steps to rebuild their professional reputation if an accident happens.
