September 12, 2024 | Truck Accidents in Chicago
Individuals who want to operate a commercial motor vehicle must have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL). A CDL is required for 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, tractor trucks, big rigs, and other large trucks and vehicles. Commercial driver’s licenses ensure that people receive the specialized training and experience to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
Federal and state laws have strict criteria for issuing commercial driver’s licenses. The Secretary of State of Illinois is responsible for issuing CDLs in Illinois. It also regulates training schools for commercial drivers. If you want to apply for a CDL in Illinois, it is important to understand the types of commercial driver’s licenses available and the requirements for obtaining a CDL.
Types of Commercial Driver’s Licenses in Illinois
There are four types of driver’s licenses in Illinois. The type of driver’s license required to operate a vehicle depends on the size of the vehicle. Commercial driver’s licenses fall into one of these categories:
- A Class A driver’s license is required to operate a combination of vehicles when the GCWR (gross combination weight rating) of the vehicle is 26,001 pounds or more and the vehicle being towed weighs 10,000 pounds or more.
- A Class B driver’s license is required to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) of 26,001 pounds or more or any vehicle that is towing another vehicle that weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
- A Class C driver’s license is required to operate single vehicles with a GVWR between 16,001 pounds and 26,001 pounds.
- A Class D driver’s license is required to operate single vehicles with a GVWR of less than 16,001 pounds.
A commercial truck driver may also need a CDL endorsement if they operate specific vehicles or haul certain types of loads. Endorsements for commercial driver’s licenses in Illinois include:
- Hazardous Materials Endorsement (H)
- Passenger Endorsement (P)
- Tank and Hazardous Materials Endorsement (X)
- Double/Triple Trailer Endorsement (T)
- Charter Bus Endorsement (C)
- School Bus Endorsement (S)
Obtaining a CDL requires substantial training and experience. There could be other requirements that some truck drivers must meet, such as qualifying to operate a vehicle with manual transmission or a commercial truck with partial, full, or no air brakes.
What Are the Requirements to Obtain a Commercial Driver’s License in Illinois?
Individuals must meet numerous criteria before the state will issue a commercial driver’s license. The basic requirements for a CDL include:
- Be at least 18 years old to drive a commercial truck within the State of Illinois (intrastate trucking) and 21 years old to drive a commercial truck in multiple states (interstate trucking).
- File a Proof of Legal Residence establishing you are a US citizen or a legal permanent resident.
- Possess a valid Illinois driver’s license that will not expire before the one-year term of a CDL learner’s permit.
- Pass the required written tests, including combination, core, air brake, and application endorsement knowledge tests.
- Complete a skills/drive test.
- Pay all fees to obtain a commercial learner’s permit or commercial driver’s license.
- Pass a security threat assessment by the TSA if you apply for an X or H endorsement.
There may be other requirements depending on your situation. CDLs are valid in Illinois for four years from the date they are issued. If you change your name or address, you must notify the Illinois Secretary of State within 30 days to obtain a corrected CDL with your new information.
Chicago Large Truck Accidents Cause Severe Injuries and Deaths
Even with the strict requirements for obtaining a commercial driver’s license, thousands of people are killed or injured in truck accidents each year. Most victims in large truck crashes are occupants of other vehicles. A standard passenger vehicle is not equipped to withstand a collision with an 80,000-pound commercial truck.
Commercial truck accidents result in life-threatening conditions and permanent impairments. Common injuries include paralysis, brain damage, amputations, severe burns, internal organ damage, and broken bones. The long-term consequences for the victims and their families are catastrophic.
If you were injured in a truck accident, you could be entitled to substantial compensation for economic and non-economic damages. The truck driver, trucking company, and other parties may be liable.
However, recovering a fair settlement for a truck accident claim is difficult. The trucking company and its insurance provider aggressively defend claims to avoid paying large settlements.
Contact our Personal Injury Law Firm at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Chicago, IL, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Our dedicated team is here to provide the expert guidance you need to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced attorneys at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.
We serve Cook County and its surrounding areas:
Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
875 N Dearborn St 4th Floor
Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 635-5400