Law Office of Michael J. Tremoulis | May 7, 2025 | Personal Injury
Commercial driving requires the right license. You must hold the correct Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) for the type of vehicle you operate. Each CDL class allows you to handle different vehicles and cargo types. The law sets strict rules for these licenses, and failure to meet them could expose you to legal risk.
How CDL Classes Differ by Vehicle Type
The law separates CDLs into three classes:
- Class A CDL: Covers combination vehicles with a gross combined weight of over 26,001 pounds. These include tractor-trailers and long-haul rigs. If you aim to drive across provinces or haul freight over long distances, this license fits that path.
- Class B CDL: Applies to large single vehicles, also over 26,001 pounds. This includes buses, dump trucks, and box trucks. You see these on city streets or highways during local routes or passenger transport. If you plan to handle deliveries or drive a transit bus, you need a Class B license.
- Class C CDL: Covers smaller commercial vehicles. These carry hazardous materials or more than 16 passengers. This class allows you to drive school buses, small chemical haulers, or airport shuttles. If you apply for this license, you must pass tests specific to your intended cargo or passenger type.
Each CDL class serves a different purpose. You must match your license to your job. Failure to hold the correct class exposes you to penalties, insurance issues, and civil claims if an accident happens.
Which CDL do You Need for Specific Jobs
Your job choice determines which license fits. Long-haul freight drivers need Class A. This license opens more job options and covers the largest range of vehicles. Class A holders operate rigs that pull trailers or extra axles.
Bus drivers or drivers of large single-unit trucks need a Class B license. That includes garbage trucks, cement mixers, and straight trucks. Public transport systems also require Class B for route operators.
Class C serves drivers who carry passengers or hazardous substances in smaller vehicles. School boards, airport authorities, or chemical distributors often require this license. You must also pass tests for specific endorsements.
Endorsements That Affect Trucking Liability
Endorsements expand what your license allows. Without them, you expose yourself to legal problems. Some employers refuse to hire drivers without them. Common endorsements include Hazardous Materials, Tanker, Doubles/Triples, and Passenger.
The Hazardous Materials endorsement (HazMat) covers fuel, chemicals, or other restricted goods. To qualify, you must pass a written test and a background check. The Tanker endorsement covers trucks that haul liquids. These loads shift easily, so the law requires extra safety knowledge. The Doubles/Triples endorsement covers trailers that hook together. You see these rigs often on highways.
Each endorsement raises the standard for your knowledge. They also increase liability if you fail to follow safety rules and are involved in a truck accident. If an accident happens while you lack the proper endorsement, you could face lawsuits, fines, or loss of your CDL.
Employers often value drivers with multiple endorsements. HazMat and Tanker together make you eligible for more jobs. You also appear more reliable. This gives you a competitive edge in a crowded market.
Legal Consequences of Unqualified Driving
If you drive without the correct CDL or endorsement, you violate the law. That decision may result in fines, license suspension, or criminal charges. Courts take these violations seriously, especially after an accident.
Your insurance provider may deny coverage. That leaves you to pay out of pocket for property damage, medical bills, or lawsuits. If someone sues, you may face garnishment, liens, or even jail time for extreme violations.
A mark on your driving record follows you. Employers conduct background checks. Many will reject applicants with prior violations. Others may impose probation or limit your duties. Your pay could drop. You may also lose any chance at career advancement.
Schedule a Consultation With a Personal Injury Attorney
If you’re involved in a crash and facing legal or financial pressure, it’s important to consult with a personal injury attorney. An experienced lawyer can help evaluate your case, review your driving record and endorsements, and analyze the circumstances of the accident. Legal guidance can be crucial in protecting your rights and navigating complex trucking or vehicle-related claims. Consider scheduling a consultation to better understand your options and next steps.
Contact the Lima Personal Injury Lawyer of the Law Office of Michael J. Tremoulis for Help Today
If you were injured in an accident in Lima, and need legal help, contact our personal injury lawyer at the Law Office of Michael J. Tremoulis to schedule a free case review today.
We proudly serve Allen County and the surrounding areas.
Law Office of Michael J. Tremoulis Lima
540 W Market St
Lima, OH 45801
(419) 404-4444
