Do You Need a CDL to Drive a Box Truck?
A commercial driver’s license, or CDL, is required for operators of various trucks and large vehicles. Drivers of semi-trucks, flatbed trucks, buses, and other large or commercial vehicles typically must carry a CDL. Box trucks are typically used for moving and in-town deliveries instead of highway travel. You might wonder if you need a CDL to drive a box truck. The answer is–not necessarily, but it depends on the truck’s weight.
Box Truck CDL Requirements
For box trucks, CDL requirements are based on the truck’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Box trucks with a GVWR under 26,000 pounds do not require drivers to carry a CDL. Most box trucks fall under this weight classification. For box trucks over 26,000 pounds GVWR, however, their operators will need a commercial driver’s license. It is important to understand licensing requirements for different types of box trucks.
What Is a Box Truck?
Box trucks are usually defined by features including:
- A stretched frame design with a cargo box connected directly to the truck’s chassis, instead of being connected by joints
- A cargo box that cannot be accessed from the truck’s cab
- A rear roll-up door for loading and unloading materials
While larger commercial trucks, including semi-trucks, are two separate pieces joined by a fifth wheel, box trucks are a single machine. Box trucks are used for limited purposes and local travel, generally. Another key difference is that semi-trucks and similar vehicles require drivers to hold a CDL and undergo many hours of hands-on training. Box trucks, meanwhile, can often be operated by drivers with no training whatsoever in handling large vehicles.
Types of Box Trucks
Common types of box trucks include:
- Moving trucks
- Delivery trucks
- Mail trucks
- Service trucks
If you’ve ever rented a moving truck to haul your belongings, for example, you probably operated a box truck without requiring a CDL.
Who Is Liable for a Box Truck Accident?
Drivers of box truck vehicles and the companies allowing use of the vehicles can both be liable when an accident happens. Drivers have duties to operate the truck safely, while companies are expected to allow only responsible drivers to use their vehicles. Truck rental services must make sure anyone operating their vehicles holds valid licenses for the vehicle and its weight. Companies must also maintain the safety of vehicles through regular upkeep.
Anyone driving a box truck, meanwhile, has a duty of care to other drivers on the road. Whether a box truck operator is required to have a CDL or not, they are expected to:
- Watch their surroundings carefully at all times
- Be careful reversing the truck and making turns
- Drive slower to account for longer stopping times and sharp turns
- Use mirrors at all times to check for vehicles around them
- Avoid maneuvers that they are not comfortable with in a large vehicle
If a box truck meets the weight requirements for a CDL, drivers must carry the required Class B CDL. Companies owning and operating box trucks must meet federal and state licensing requirements for any truck in their possession. If they rent a vehicle to an improperly licensed driver, fail to maintain the vehicle’s safety, or are otherwise negligent in renting out the vehicle to a driver, the company can be held financially responsible when accidents happen.
Contact The Lake Wylie Truck Accident Lawyers At Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys For Help Today
Most box trucks can be operated without a commercial driver’s license (CDL), and many drivers have little to no experience handling larger vehicles. This lack of training can contribute to serious accidents. If you were injured in a box truck accident in Lake Wylie, South Carolina, you may be entitled to financial compensation. A knowledgeable Lake Wylie accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
For more information, please contact our truck accident lawyers in South Carolina and North Carolina at Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys to schedule a free consultation today.
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