3 Requirements Of A Truck Driver To Put Your Mind At Ease The Next Time Your Vehicle Is Towed
Posted on: 17 August 2015
If your car malfunctions and leaves you stranded on the side of the road, you may need a tow truck service to move the car. Abandoning the car for a later pickup can be dangerous. Your car could be vandalized. Items could be stolen from the vehicle, or it could be involved in a collision. Nevertheless, allowing a tow truck service to transport your car can be a bit unnerving. You probably won't know the tow truck operator and may have little reason to trust his or her competence.
Still, tow truck drivers from companies like Arctic Thunder Towing & Recovery are trained professionals. To help put your mind at ease during the times that your car has to be towed, here are some of the requirements that a tow truck driver may have to meet before he or she tows your car:
Commercial Driver's License
A tow truck driver is required by the U.S. Department of Transportation to have a commercial driver's license if the driver tows cargo that weighs over 26,001 pounds. However, some state and local regulations are more stringent and require a commercial license for a tow truck operator, regardless of cargo weight.
Before the driver can obtain a commercial license, he or she must attended approved training classes and pass a written examination. In addition, the driver must successfully complete a driving test. If the driver has a commercial driver's license, your car will not be towed by a person who is untrained or incompetent.
Physical Fitness
Some government agencies may require a tow truck driver to be in good physical shape. Assessments of his or her eyesight, fitness level and hearing may be provided before the trucker can operate a towing vehicle. In addition, the driver may be required to pass a drug screening.
People who have physical limitations that prevent them from detecting traffic issues may find it difficult to respond quickly on the road. In addition, people who have a substance abuse problem may have an altered sense of judgment. However, tow truck drivers who are regularly tested for drugs and alcohol and examined for physical issues are more apt to be fit to drive safely and responsibly.
Towing Certification
Some towing companies require tow truck drivers to have a towing certification.
By completing additional coursework, a tow truck driver can become certified with organizations, such as the Towing and Recovery Association of America, which offers the National Driver Certification Program. The certification expires after five years, so the truck driver must renew it to remain certified.
If your car needs to be towed, it will likely be towed by a trained professional. Nevertheless, most professional towing companies are willing to disclose the training and license requirements of their drivers. Contact a towing service provider today for information about their drivers' qualifications.
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