Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. | June 4, 2025 | Truck Accidents
Box trucks are highly versatile vehicles that can be used for so many things, from local deliveries to moving services to freight transportation. Still, box trucks require specialized skills to drive, and many end up in accidents.
In fact, Wisconsin’s Department of Transportation notes that the state sees thousands of large truck accidents a year, some of which likely involve large box trucks.
The size of a box truck ultimately affects the driver’s ability to turn, brake, see, and park. With all these added challenges, you may wonder whether drivers need a commercial license (CDL) to operate one. Whether you’ve been hurt in a box truck accident or are considering driving one, this is an important consideration to ensure adherence to state laws.
Wisconsin law does not require every box truck driver to have a CDL. Even if you’re making deliveries for your local business, you don’t need one if the box truck you’re operating has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,000 pounds or less.
The GVWR is the maximum weight a vehicle can hold, including its fuel, passengers, and cargo, while still operating safely. This should not be confused with the gross vehicle weight, which is the actual weight of the fully loaded vehicle.
The GVWR is usually on the manufacturer’s Safety Compliance Certification Label, which is typically located in the driver’s side door jamb or door latch pillar. If you can’t locate it there (or just need a different reference point), you may also be able to find it in the vehicle’s owner manual.
Wisconsin’s laws require those driving box trucks with a GVWR exceeding 26,000 pounds to possess a CDL. Having trained drivers operating these large vehicles can help prevent car accidents.
However, the Wisconsin DOT may also take the gross combination weight rating (GCWR) into account if you are towing a trailer with a registered or actual weight of over 10,000 pounds. The highest weight between your GVWR, GCWR, registered weight, and actual weight will be used as the determining factor for a CDL requirement.
You will also need a CDL if the vehicle can carry more than 16 people (including the driver) or if you are transporting hazardous materials that require a hazmat endorsement.
Truck accidents are unique because there may be several responsible parties. If the truck requires a CDL to operate and the driver doesn’t have one, you may have a case for holding them accountable for the accident.
However, you may be able to hold other parties responsible, including:
Both drivers and the person or company that owns the truck owe the public a duty to ensure they act responsibly, especially when it comes to operating larger vehicles.
Sustaining an injury after a collision with a box truck can be scary, especially if you have to miss work or undergo extensive medical treatment. A knowledgeable Madison truck accident lawyer at Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. can evaluate your case and thoroughly investigate which parties may be at fault in your personal injury case.
Truck accidents are undoubtedly intricate, and it’s always a good idea to have a legal professional helping you navigate the law. With the help of the right attorney, you can rest assured that you’ll have someone fighting for your rights at every turn.
Eisenberg Law Offices S.C. is a trusted truck accidents law firm in Madison, WI, dedicated to fighting for your deserved compensation. Our experienced attorneys will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation.
We proudly serve Dane County, Jefferson County, Sauk County, Rock County, Columbia County, and their surrounding areas.
Eisenberg Law Offices S.C. – Madison
308 E Washington Ave
Madison, WI 53703
(608) 256-8356
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