Chicago Accident Lawyer Blog
If you have been injured in a trucking crash in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois, it is important to understand all the factors that may have contributed to the accident—including whether the driver was qualified to operate a commercial vehicle under federal law. At Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C., a leading Chicago personal injury law firm, we represent victims of serious truck crashes and fight to hold trucking companies accountable when they put unsafe or unqualified drivers on the road.
A recent federal Executive Order, issued on April 28, 2025, now requires strict enforcement of a rule that has existed for years: truck drivers must be able to speak and read English. The Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will begin placing drivers out of service if they cannot demonstrate English proficiency.
Under 49 C.F.R. § 391.11(b)(2), commercial motor vehicle drivers must be able to:
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Read and understand road signs and warning labels
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Converse with police and emergency personnel
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Follow detour instructions and directions from dispatchers
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Complete safety records and logbooks in English
The purpose of this regulation is to protect public safety, but the impact may be far-reaching. Many owner-operators and immigrant truck drivers are simply trying to earn a living and support their families. For drivers who struggle with English fluency, this new enforcement policy may result in loss of work or fines, even if they have driven safely for years.
At Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C., we believe in road safety and fairness. We also believe drivers deserve support—not just penalties. Trucking schools and community colleges should offer specialized English programs for truck drivers, focusing on the real-world vocabulary and situations they face on the road. By giving drivers the tools they need to comply, we can reduce the risk of accidents without marginalizing workers.
Still, for those injured in a truck accident, the law is clear. A driver who cannot read traffic signs, respond to official inquiries, or understand basic safety instructions is not qualified to drive under federal law. If that driver causes a crash, the violation can strengthen your injury claim and lead to greater compensation.
Our team of Chicago truck accident attorneys thoroughly investigates every crash, including whether the driver was operating in violation of FMCSA rules. If the driver was placed out of service for English proficiency violations or was otherwise unqualified, we will use that evidence to support your personal injury case.
If you or someone you love was injured in a trucking accident, call Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C. today. Our attorneys have decades of experience handling commercial vehicle crashes, and we offer free consultations to help you understand your rights. Do not wait—speak with a Chicago truck accident lawyer who knows how to win.