As we look to the future, the continued challenge of a driver shortage looms as a “perfect storm.” There are many variables that impact this shortage. One key factor is an aging workforce combined with a decline in the primary demographic group that makes up the majority of the driver pool.
As freight volumes increase, many fleets are struggling to attract qualified drivers and may be unable to seat trucks or add capacity at a time when
demand is growing. If current demographic trends continue, the shortage of truck drivers could reach 111,000 by the end of the year. Over the next decade, the trucking industry will need to hire a total of 890,000 new drivers, or an average of 89,000 per year.
Replacing retiring truck drivers will be the largest factor, accounting for nearly half of new driver hires (45%). The second largest factor will be industry growth, accounting for 33% of new driver hires. As transportation managers, we are seeing our driver workforce continue to age. The average age of a truck driver in the United States is over 50 years. Since 2000, the number of truck drivers age 55 or older has increased by 19%, reaching approximately 616,000, according to the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Truck companies with baby boomer drivers often report that their safety records are at least as strong as those of younger drivers. This is absolutely a segment of our workforce that we need and depend on. However, as we age, we do not all do so at the same physical or mental rate.
The FMCSA does not have a maximum age limit for drivers of commercial motor vehicles, unlike the FAA for pilots. All drivers are subject to medical qualification requirements under CFR 391.
The question remains: how do we, as transportation managers, determine when it is time to take the keys from a driver who may no longer be able to operate safely?
Here are a few suggestions:
- Develop a proactive safety and loss control program with policies and procedures that are not biased by age.
- Require all drivers to complete physical examinations conducted by an FMCSA-registered medical examiner who has a relationship with your company.
- Develop clear job descriptions and requirements based on the actual demands of each position.
- Implement a defensive driver training program with updated training provided annually for all drivers.
- Administer structured check rides at least annually to assess each driver’s skills and abilities.
- Maintain ongoing communication with all drivers to ensure an open dialogue regarding their ability to safely perform their responsibilities.
- Remain vigilant and observant of all driver behaviors.
Do you need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate a straight truck with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds that has air brakes? This is a question I frequently receive during seminars and from lease and rental managers.
The definition of a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV), for the purpose of requiring a CDL as described in CFR 383.5, is as follows:
A Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) means a motor vehicle, or combination of motor vehicles, used in commerce to transport passengers or property if the motor vehicle:
(a) Has a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, inclusive of the towed unit(s), with a gross weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds
(b) Has a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more
(c) Is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver
(d) Is of any size and is used in the transportation of hazardous materials as defined in CFR 383.5
So, the answer is no. However, your state may require a chauffeur’s license for vehicles with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or more but less than 26,001 pounds (e.g., Michigan and Illinois).
Also, keep in mind that there is no such thing as an “air brake endorsement.” For a Class A or B CDL, there is only an air brake restriction. This means the driver either failed the air brake portion of the CDL exam or used a vehicle without air brakes during their skills test.
What disqualifies a driver from receiving clearance in the security threat assessment process for a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement?
Conviction of any of the following crimes will disqualify a driver from eligibility for a HazMat endorsement:
• Terrorism
• Assault with intent to murder
• Murder
• Espionage
• Sedition
• Kidnapping or hostage-taking
• Treason
• Rape or aggravated sexual abuse
• Extortion
• Robbery
• Arson
• Bribery
• Smuggling
• Immigration violations
• RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) violations
• Unlawful possession, use, sale, distribution, or manufacture of explosives, firearms, or other weapons
• Distribution, intent to distribute, possession, or importation of a controlled substance
• Dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation (including identity fraud)
• Crimes involving a severe transportation security incident
• Improper transportation of hazardous materials
• Conspiracy or attempt to commit any of the above crimes
All drivers applying for or renewing a hazardous materials endorsement must complete the Security Threat Assessment process. It is recommended that drivers begin this process 90 days prior to their license expiration.
To begin the assessment process, visit:
https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/hazmat-endorsement
For additional information on distracted driving, visit the following websites:
http://safety.nsc.org/ddam
https://www.enddd.org/
Our highways are a very dangerous place, and all of us must do our part to keep them as safe as possible.
All 50 states have “Move Over” laws to protect law enforcement officers and other first responders stopped on our nation’s roadways. However, many drivers are still unaware of these laws, and traffic-related incidents remain the leading cause of death among on-duty law enforcement officers.
In partnership with law enforcement and state highway safety offices, NHTSA is working to increase awareness of these lifesaving laws and emphasize the importance of protecting public safety professionals who put themselves at risk.
By working with local organizations and raising awareness through earned and social media, you can help make a difference and save lives.
Learn more here:
https://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/get-materials/first-responder-safety/move-over
