The federal government is moving forward with a plan to allow teenagers to drive large trucks across state lines in a test program.
According to an ABC News report, truck drivers operating big rigs across state lines must be at least 21. However, an apprenticeship program required by Congress to help ease supply chain backlogs would allow 18- to 20-year-olds to drive large trucks across state lines.
This pilot program is detailed in a proposed rule from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that would screen teens, barring any DUI violations or traffic tickets resulting in a crash.
However, safety advocates argue that the program contradicts data indicating a higher crash rate among younger drivers than older ones.
They say it might also be less than prudent to allow teens to operate large trucks and rigs that could weigh about 80,000 pounds and cause catastrophic damage when they strike smaller passenger vehicles.
Teen Drivers of Large Trucks: How the Program Will Work
Congress required the apprenticeship pilot program as part of the infrastructure bill signed into law on Nov. 15. The American Trucking Associations, an industry trade group, supports the program, saying it will help address the nationwide shortage of truck drivers.
The group estimates that the nation is short more than 80,000 drivers at a time when demand to move freight is at historic highs.
Under the apprenticeship program, younger drivers can cross state lines during 120-hour and 280-hour probationary periods as long as an experienced driver is in the passenger seat.
The large trucks used in this program must have an electronic braking and crash-mitigation system and a forward-facing video camera. Also, their speeds must be limited to 65 mph.
The younger drivers can operate independently once they complete probation. However, companies must monitor their performance until they turn 21.
Potential Safety Concerns
As truck accident attorneys, we are concerned about this new federal regulation, which aims to increase the number of truck drivers on the road to address supply chain issues.
Driving an 80,000-pound truck is a serious responsibility. It can be challenging, even for experienced drivers, to navigate bad weather, heavy traffic, and fatigue as they cross state lines to deliver goods. Accidents involving large trucks can be deadly.
Some of the common causes of truck accidents include drunk driving, distracted driving, fatigue, driving at an unsafe speed, and mechanical malfunctions. We are genuinely concerned about how young adults will handle these challenges and how that might adversely affect everyone on our roadways.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, please remember that you may be able to seek compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses. An experienced lawyer specializing in truck accidents will be able to advise you regarding your legal rights and options.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/us-teen-semi-drivers-test-apprenticeship-program-82250783
