Trucks that carry hazardous materials are sometimes called Haz-Mat trucks. These trucks can be many different shapes and sizes, and they are specifically designed to carry dangerous or toxic materials such as acid, fuel, or other dangerous liquids.
Since there is more risk involved with driving dangerous chemicals, there are greater restrictions on the truck drivers who travel with them. These drivers are required to have a special endorsement that shows the driver has been trained in the correct precautions and procedures in order to minimize the risk of transporting these dangerous chemicals. Often, these drivers are also required to pass a background check specifically aimed at ensuring as much safety as possible for both the truck driver and other travelers on the road. Additionally, due to the increased risk of driving these hazardous materials, these truck drivers are required to have higher amounts of liability insurance compared to other commercial hauling vehicles.
In addition to having highly qualified drivers, there are also additional restrictions placed on these types of trucks. For instance, they may only have certain windows of time they are permitted to drive. They also may be given restrictions on driving on congested roads or through highly populated areas.