Obtaining a commercial driver's license has many requirements set out by the U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).1 These requirements are put in place to make sure that no dangerous or high-risk individuals will not be allowed behind the wheel of a large commercial vehicle. One of these requirements is that the truck driver must be free from any mental or physical impairments that may cloud their ability to drive a commercial truck. If you have been injured because an unsafe driver caused an accident, an attorney can hep you file a legal claim against the responsible driver to recover for your losses.
Certain medical conditions can result in a truck accident and serious harm to other drivers. The FMCSA prohibits drivers with the following types of injuries or conditions and more:
- Epilepsy or other seizure disorders
- Heart disease and related conditions
- Respiratory disorders
- Vision or hearing impairments
- Depression or other mental disorders
- Substance abuse history
These are only a few example of medical disorders that can disqualify you from receiving a commercial driver's license. Such medical health requirements are extremely important to keep other motorists safe. Imagine the damage that may occur if a truck driver suffers a major heart attack or has a seizure and loses consciousness while behind the wheel of an 80,000 pound tractor-trailer.
Required list of providers
Prior to 2014, a truck driver could use any doctor to perform the required medical exam and prepare the report. In 2014, a new FMCSA policy went into effect that puts strict limits on what type of medical professional you can use for your exam. The new policy got approved because too many drivers were conspiring with their doctor and convincing the doctor to sign off on a clean bill of health that contained false information. Using a false medical report allows a person to conceal very serious disorders or conditions that may affect their driving abilities and may lead to accidents. The FMCSA now provides a list of approved medical providers2 to try to ensure that a driver does not use a corrupt doctor who is willing to take bribes to issue a clean health report. In addition to their initial medical evaluation prior to receiving a commercial license, drivers must also attend regular appointments throughout their driving career.
Contact an experienced truck accident lawyer for assistance as soon as possible
Truck drivers who are unsafe or who do not follow regulations put everyone else on the road in danger of injury and should always be held fully accountable for any injuries or damage that they caused. The experienced personal injury attorneys at the Michigan-based firm of Michigan Injury Lawyers understand the financial and physical struggles that truck accident victims can suffer. We provide the highest quality of representation for each individual client and will guide you through every step of your case. Please do not delay in calling us at 888-454-0801 to schedule you free, no-obligation consultation with someone today.
References:
1http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/
2http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/medical/driver-medical-requirements/national-registry-certified-medical-examiners
Thomas L. Stroble
FOUNDER
Mr. Stroble is a highly accomplished graduate of Michigan State University, with degrees in both science and law. He specializes in commercial lawsuits and personal injury cases. Licensed to practice law in Michigan and even the U.S. Supreme Court, he’s a well-qualified legal expert. Besides his career in law, he loves outdoor activities and volunteers as a part-time police officer in Birmingham.
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