Evidence Found in a Driver Qualification File after a Truck Accident Case

By Dallas Personal Injury Attorney on March 16, 2015

Texas maintains strict laws and requirements for all commercial truck drivers. These requirements dictate the weight of a driver’s load, hours during which they can operate, and who can and cannot operate the semi-truck.

Established to prevent accidents and preserve highway safety, Texas’ regulations should be followed at all costs. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to adhere, simply out of laziness or a rush to get more work accomplished in one day. Accidents occur as a result and other drivers on the road suffer long-term consequences. If you were recently involved in a Dallas truck accident, an attorney may be able to help you file a claim.

When filing a claim, your attorney is responsible for proving that the truck driver’s negligence caused the accident. While they can investigate the scene of the accident, your attorney should also review the truck driver’s documentation. What they find may positively impact your claim.

What is a driver qualification file?

The driver qualification file holds valuable information about a driver’s ability to operate a big rig. If they aren’t legally qualified, it can automatically prove that they are entirely responsible for your accident. Motor Carriers are required to keep a record of their drivers’ background and training, referred to as the driver qualification file.

Without proper documentation, both the driver and the trucking company may be found at fault. It takes a qualified attorney to review the file and use their findings to uphold your best interests.

A driver qualification file should include the following documents:

• The driver’s employment application
• The motor vehicle record requested within 30 days of hire
• Proof of the driver’s qualifications to drive the vehicle
• Background check information on the driver
• The driver’s medical certificate
• The driver’s annual motor vehicle record
• Any moving violations done by the driver

These documents are the lifeblood of a truck driver. Even just one missing document can result in serious consequences after an accident, so retain an attorney you can trust to review every aspect of the driver’s qualification file. Our firm has many years of experience and a track record of success, making our Dallas truck accident attorneys more than qualified to handle your case.

Get in touch with us today and learn more about how we may be able to help!