Having a health condition that could affect driving performance is dangerous for any motorist, but for commercial truckers, who spend far more time on the road than the average driver and sit behind the wheels of vehicles that can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, it can be particularly hazardous or even deadly.
Though the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (the government agency responsible for regulating interstate trucking in the U.S.) requires truckers to pass a health screening in order to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) from their home state, the effectiveness of the screening process is limited at best. 
The major flaw? The process depends on the “honor system.” Drivers are asked to disclose any medical conditions they have that could potentially disqualify them from driving commercially. But with their livelihood on the line, it’s not uncommon for drivers to simply avoid disclosing that information.
Considering that being honest about their health could cost truckers their careers and sources of income, it's not surprising that some would find the idea of hiding their medical history tempting. Unfortunately, omitting or falsifying information in the Health History section of the commercial drivers' examination is not only illegal, but it can also endanger everyone on the road.
Commercial Driver Medical Health and Driving Performance
Commercial drivers are tasked with operating large trucks and buses that are capable of causing serious damage in the event of an accident. These massive vehicles handle much differently than their smaller, lighter passenger vehicle counterparts. Drivers have to grapple with blind spots, limited maneuverability, and increased stopping time and distance. As a result, truckers need to be at the top of their game — in both skill and health. Despite this, some drivers continue to be dishonest about their medical history, even when the conditions in question wouldn't be disqualifying, but would possibly require more frequent re-certifications. Consider these crashes, which involved truckers who hid dangerous medical conditions:
- In 2019, a trucker who hid a long history of serious ailments caused a deadly Florida crash that killed seven and severely injured an additional eight people.
- In 2016, a box truck driver in Maine who concealed a history of diabetes crashed into the car in front of him, killing a man and boy.
- In 2014, a Detroit-bound Greyhound bus driver with untreated sleep apnea lost consciousness and drove off the interstate, injuring 35 passengers.
What You Should Know About California Truck Crashes
When commercial drivers cause accidents that lead to injuries or deaths, the company they drive for may be responsible for compensating victims. However, truck crash litigation is complex and complicated, and many people need the help of an experienced attorney to ensure a fair resolution. Here are a few ways Inland Empire law Group, the personal injury lawyer in Victorville, helps their clients get the compensation they deserve:
- The trucking company that employs the driver involved in your truck crash has a multitude of evidence that could help your case — employment records, driving records, medical certification paperwork, etc. We can simply send the company a letter to have them release this information to our offices so that we can thoroughly examine it.
- Truck accident cases tend to involve more significant damages and, in turn, the possibility for larger settlements or financial awards — so you can expect considerable push-back from potentially liable parties and their insurance companies or legal teams. Having a legal team of your own can help you fight back against their efforts and help ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Depending on the facts and evidence in your case, we may be able to help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Discuss Your Case With an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer in Victorville
If you were hurt, or you lost a loved one in a California truck crash caused by a medically unfit commercial driver, then contact Inland Empire Law Group's skilled team of personal injury lawyers in Victorville and Rancho Cucamonga. We can help you understand your rights, explore your options for compensation, and fight for the fair recovery you deserve. Contact us today at 909-481-0100 to schedule an appointment for a free initial consultation to discuss the details of your case. Don't wait — delaying action can put essential evidence in jeopardy of being lost or destroyed.
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