Just as you must meet certain requirements in order to obtain a driver’s license, truck drivers must also pass tests to receive a commercial driver’s license. These highly specialized vehicles require qualified and trained truckers to operate them and to ensure that they are driven safely on Tennessee roadways. According to the American Trucking Association, however, there is a significant shortage of skilled truck drivers. Not only is this a problem for the trucking industry, but it could put you at a greater risk of being involved in a serious truck accident.
Bloomberg Business reported that as the current population of truck drivers in the U.S. continues to age and retire, there are less truckers willing to take their place. Some attribute this decline of new hires to low wages and the fact that prospective truckers are not willing to spend long periods of time away from their families. Other industries, such as construction, offer comparable wages and allow people to stay home. Federal regulations also require truckers to break more often and take frequent rest periods, which can inhibit their ability to make money as well.
How does this nationwide truck driver shortage affect you? With a lack of well-trained truckers on the road, some trucking companies have turned to using truck drivers that may not be qualified to operate a big rig. In some cases, truckers are scheduled to work long hours in violation of federal regulations, in order to meet tight deadlines and deliver more freight. Drowsy, distracted, untrained and otherwise negligent truckers can lead to catastrophic truck accidents, injuries and even death.
This information is only intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.