Safety FAQs
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Q:
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Are there any special qualifications necessary to drive a large truck?
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A:
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Yes. A driver must possess a valid Commercial Drivers License (CDL). A person must pass written tests and demonstrate skills in safe driving and maneuvering the vehicle to receive their CDL.
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Q:
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Are there any physical requirements necessary to qualify for a CDL?
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A:
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A person must meet the physical qualification standards set by the Department of Transportation (DOT) in order to qualify for a CDL. Drivers are required to pass a DOT physical examination upon certification and recertification which is dependant upon the certifying physician.
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Q:
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Are there any drug testing requirements for drivers of large trucks?
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A:
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Yes. Drivers must submit to pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion and post-accident drug testing per DOT requirements. Breath Alcohol Tests are also required.
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Q:
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What is a "blind spot" around a large truck?
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A:
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A "blind spot" is an area around any vehicle where there is limited visibility. There are larger blind spots around a large truck than a passenger auto. Although the large trucks usually have more mirrors than a car, a car can easily be hidden from the view of a driver of a large truck, while in a "blind spot." If you cannot see the truck drivers face in the truck mirrors, generally the truck driver cannot see your automobile.
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Q:
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What should a car driver do if considering passing a large truck?
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A:
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The car driver should do things to ensure the truck driver sees them, such as using turn signals well in advance and avoid driving in the trucks "blind spots." The car driver should move left to pass leaving as much room as possible, complete the pass timely, and ensure adequate space in front of the truck before pulling back into the right lane.
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Q:
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If a car and a large truck are traveling at the same speed, which vehicle can stop in a shorter distance?
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A:
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Typically, it takes a large truck many times the distance to stop from the same speed as a car. The actual stopping distance varies by the weight of the vehicle, conditions of the roadway and variables associated with the driver. It is important for car drivers and truck drivers alike to understand these differences in order to share the highway safely.
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