Entry-level heavy truck drivers and highway safety: Is it finally time for federally mandated training?

This article examines the need for mandated instruction and a uniform curriculum for entry-level commercial drivers. The study also addresses the discontinuity resulting from the establishment of a uniform licensing standard without requiring preparatory training. The research involves a review of Federal regulations pertaining to obligatory operator instruction in the air, water and rail mode. The investigation concludes that weak support and lobbying efforts by certain trucking interests have thwarted the adoption of mandatory instruction and/or a uniform curriculum. The study also highlights a pressing need for policy revision given the imminent retirement of many “baby boom” generation drivers