Driving a semi truck is not anything at all like driving a car, small or even pickup truck. Commercial drivers must undergo special training before they can be licensed to drive these types of vehicles. Both the States and Federal Government regulate truck drivers. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations are designed with truck safety in mind.
Tractor- trailer trucks have specialized air brakes, a variety of gears and hundreds of other differences from conventional vehicles. Training teaches the driver how to handle all of the truck's operations and systems.
For instance, an 18 wheeler truck driver learns how to tackle a steep incline (both going up and down) - like mountainous terrain - in a way that keeps the brakes from overheating and an accident to ensue. Too, when a semi truck 'takes a corner' they must be able to do so without causing the load to shift - another example of the potential for an accident. And, certainly, the truck driver must even know how to load the semi truck properly to begin with!
Semi truck driver training also includes teaching the student how to park, back-up, maneuver on narrow streets and connect or disconnect the cab from the trailer. Finally, the semi truck driver receives training in basic rig maintenance and repair. That includes such things as understanding the unique requirements of a diesel engine and even changing a flat tire!
Most states require potential truck drivers to receive anywhere from 40 hours of training on up. Students are required to attend school on location and practice authentic semi truck driving skills with a professionally certified trainer. Commercial truck driving is not just a job anybody can walk into - it's a career that requires regular relicensing as well.
Greg Baumgartner is a Houston truck accident attorney and the founder of the Baumgartner law firm, which is dedicated to helping personal injury victims seek civil justice. For a free no obligation consultation with a Houston 18 wheeler accident lawyer call the Baumgartner firm.
