Trump administration delays truck driver training rule

In response to an order by President Trump, the Federal Motor Carrier Administration has officially announced the delay of the Minimum Training Requirements for Entry-Level Commercial Vehicle Operators rule. The rule was scheduled to take effect Feb. 6 in Illinois and nationwide. It was published in the Federal Register on Dec. 8.

The entry-level driver training rule would set a core classroom curriculum for commercial driver’s license trainees. Behind-the-wheel training is also required, but no minimum amount of time was prescribed, which was a point of contention for some trucking industry organizations. The rule also calls for the establishment of a national registry of certified CDL trainers. All individuals training for a CDL must be instructed by one of those listed in the registry.

On Jan. 20, Trump issued a memorandum ordering federal agencies to freeze new and upcoming rules until March 21. The rules could be delayed again, pending the review of his administration. The entry-level driver training rule has a compliance date of Feb. 7, 2020. That date remains unchanged.

An unqualified truck driver or one who did not receive adequate training could cause a severe truck accident, leading to serious injuries or even death. In such cases of truck driver negligence, occupants of other vehicles who were injured in the crash may want to meet with an attorney to determine how best to seek compensation for their medical expenses and other losses. In some cases, the trucking company itself could be found to be financially responsible in addition to the negligent driver under the theory of vicarious liability.

Source: Overdrive Online, “Per Trump order, FMCSA delays new driver training rule,” James Jaillet, Jan. 31, 2017