For commercial truck drivers, CDL eye exams or CDL vision tests are mandatory. One of the reasons why drivers cause accidents is due to poor vision. While all people need to take vision tests when they get their licenses initially, many do not have to test again until there seems to be a reason to do so, such as if they were involved in a truck collision.
Commercial driving requires precision, so if a driver cannot see well or is having trouble with their vision, that issue is extremely problematic. Every commercial truck driver in Georgia is required to have a CDL vision test to get their CDL in the first place.
Do commercial drivers have to get their vision checked?
Yes. Initially, to get a commercial driver’s license, truck drivers do need to take a CDL vision test and have at least 20/40 vision with a 140 degree field of view. This CDL vision test is called the Snellen Test and is the same test that many people see in the optometrist’s office. People who want to drive a commercial vehicle need to be able to see text from 40 feet away with the accuracy of an average person who would see the same text at 20 feet away.
If the driver can’t pass the test, they’ll receive contacts or glasses in most cases. Then, they’ll take the test again. If all is correct, they should be able to pass. If they still cannot, then they will not be able to drive with a CDL.
Drivers also have to have a good peripheral vision score on the CDL vision test. Drivers should see at least 70 degrees to each side (for a total of 140 degrees), so those with visual impairments may not be able to get a CDL. Drivers who can correct this or other issues with their sight may be able to get a CDL but will be required to use corrective lenses or other options available to correct their sight.
What should you do if you’re hit by a driver whose vision doesn’t pass the test?
If the driver wasn’t wearing their glasses or contacts or failed the CDL eye exam, didn’t get a repeat CDL vision test performed, or falsified information, you may be able to hold them, their company, and others liable for any injuries that you suffer as a result of them driving with an inaccurate license. This is something to look into after a collision.
If you’ve been injured in a commercial truck accident in Georgia, the McArthur Law Firm is here to help. Our truck accident attorneys in Georgia can help you hold trucking companies accountable for a failure to keep up with CDL eye exam regulations. Call the McArthur Law Firm today and see how we can help you win your truck accident case.
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