If you’re searching for trucking companies that hire with preventable accidents, you’re not alone. Thousands of CDL drivers face this situation every year — you made a mistake, owned up to it, and now you’re just looking for another chance to get back on the road.
The good news? Many reputable trucking companies understand that not every driver is perfect. Some are willing to hire drivers with preventable accidents, especially if you show improvement, honesty, and a solid safety record since the incident.
Read too: Top Trucking Companies That Still Have Manual Transmissions
In this guide, we’ll break down which companies hire drivers with past accidents, what they look for, and how you can improve your chances of getting hired quickly in 2025.
What Is a “Preventable Accident”?
Before diving into which companies hire, let’s clarify the term.
A preventable accident is a crash or collision that could have been avoided if the driver had acted differently — for example:
- Backing into a dock or pole
- Minor fender benders
- Sideswipes in parking lots
- Rear-end accidents in slow traffic
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), preventable accidents don’t necessarily disqualify you from employment. However, each carrier sets its own hiring criteria based on accident type, frequency, and time since the incident.
(See Wikipedia for more background on commercial driver classifications.)
Trucking Companies That Hire With Preventable Accidents
Many companies are open to hiring drivers with one or more preventable accidents — as long as the record shows responsibility and improvement. Below are some of the most common carrier options in the US.
| Company Name | Hiring Policy | Minimum Time Since Accident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CR England | Accepts 1 preventable accident (over 12 months old) | 12 months | Offers paid CDL training |
| Swift Transportation | Case-by-case review | 6–12 months | Focus on training & mentorship |
| Western Express | Accepts up to 2 preventable accidents in 3 years | 6 months | Great for new CDL grads |
| Knight Transportation | 1 preventable accident in last 3 years | 12 months | Must complete safety orientation |
| TransAm Trucking | Allows 1 minor preventable in 36 months | 12 months | Focus on long-haul routes |
| Roehl Transport | Accepts minor preventables | Case-by-case | Safety-focused fleet |
| Werner Enterprises | Case-by-case depending on severity | 6–18 months | Great benefits & mentorship programs |
💡 Pro Tip: If your preventable accident was non-injury and under $5,000 damage, most companies consider it “minor” — and may overlook it after 6–12 months of clean driving.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired After a Preventable Accident
Even if your record isn’t perfect, there are smart steps you can take to boost your chances of employment with top trucking carriers.
1. Be Honest and Transparent
Recruiters will check your DAC report and MVR (Motor Vehicle Record). Never hide accidents — being upfront shows professionalism and integrity.
2. Get a Recent Safety or Defensive Driving Certificate
Completing a certified Defensive Driving Course can offset negative points and prove you’re serious about safety.
3. Provide References from Past Employers
If your former dispatcher or safety manager can vouch for you, it can significantly strengthen your application.
4. Highlight a Clean Record Since the Accident
Show that your preventable accident was a one-time event — clean miles since then demonstrate consistency and growth.
5. Apply to “Second Chance” Carriers
Some companies specialize in giving opportunities to drivers with prior incidents. These include:
- Western Express
- Carolina Cargo
- TransAm Trucking
- CRST Expedited
How Long Do Preventable Accidents Stay on Your Record?
In most states, preventable accidents remain on your CDL record for 3–5 years, depending on severity.
However:
- Minor accidents: Typically drop off after 3 years.
- Major preventables (injury or property damage): May stay for 5+ years.
Each company reviews your driving history differently — some consider only the past 12–24 months for hiring eligibility.
Companies That Offer Second-Chance CDL Programs
Certain trucking carriers openly run “Second-Chance Programs” for drivers with previous accidents or violations. These are great options if you’ve had trouble finding employment elsewhere.
1. Western Express
Known nationwide for hiring drivers with minor violations and preventable accidents.
- Accepts up to 2 preventables in 3 years
- Provides on-the-road training and safety mentorship
2. Carolina Cargo
Focuses on giving drivers a fresh start after issues like accidents or gaps in work history.
- Minimal hiring restrictions
- Training available for returning drivers
3. CRST Expedited
Offers training for drivers rebuilding their career.
- Accepts minor preventable incidents
- Focuses on long-term retention and retraining
4. TransAm Trucking
Strong entry-level program and maintenance support.
- Works with drivers who have 1 preventable in 3 years
- Paid orientation and career coaching
Preventable vs. Non-Preventable Accidents
| Category | Definition | Impact on Hiring |
|---|---|---|
| Preventable | Accident could have been avoided (e.g., backing error) | Affects hiring short-term; recoverable after 12 months |
| Non-Preventable | Caused by another driver or factor outside your control | Usually doesn’t affect hiring |
| DOT-Reportable | Required by FMCSA (injury, fatality, or towing) | May impact eligibility for up to 5 years |
✅ Tip: Always document accident details and police reports — these can help clarify if an accident was truly “preventable.”
How To Explain a Preventable Accident in a CDL Job Interview
Recruiters often ask about past accidents. Here’s how to handle it professionally:
- Acknowledge the incident – Avoid excuses.
- Explain what you learned – Highlight safety improvements.
- Provide proof – Show certificates or safety records.
- End positively – Emphasize your commitment to safe driving.
Example answer:
“I had a preventable backing accident 18 months ago. Since then, I’ve completed a defensive driving course and maintained a clean record with over 100,000 miles. I’ve learned to always double-check my surroundings before backing up.”
FAQ – Trucking Companies That Hire With Preventable Accidents
1. Can I get hired with a preventable accident on my record?
Yes. Many companies hire drivers with 1–2 minor preventable accidents, especially if they occurred over 12 months ago.
2. How long should I wait before reapplying after an accident?
Usually 6–12 months. Some carriers require a longer waiting period for severe incidents.
3. Will a preventable accident affect my DAC report?
Yes, but you can add a driver’s statement explaining what happened and how you’ve improved.
4. Which companies are most forgiving?
Western Express, CR England, and Carolina Cargo are known for hiring drivers with preventable or minor accidents.
5. How can I clean up my CDL record?
Take a defensive driving course, stay accident-free, and maintain documentation of improvements.
6. What if I had multiple preventable accidents?
Multiple incidents make it harder, but you can still find smaller or regional companies that value experience over perfection.
Conclusion
Having a preventable accident on your record doesn’t mean the end of your trucking career. Many trucking companies that hire with preventable accidents believe in second chances — especially for drivers who show accountability and growth.
By being transparent, improving your safety record, and applying strategically to the right carriers, you can get back behind the wheel and rebuild your career faster than you think.
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