FMCSA Delays Truck Driver Training

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) delayed the Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule an additional two years to 2022. Originally expected to be implemented nationally in February 2020, the ELDT rule would work as mandatory safety and training guidelines for new truck drivers across the country, an occupation where there is no formal training requirements. By delaying training, there could be an increase of accidents on the road.

The Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety (AHAS), and other groups who advocate for highway safety, believe that the forthcoming ELDT rule would save lives; even though highway fatalities decreased over the past few decades, fatalities involving large truck carriers increased in recent years. The reasoning for the delay involves federal and state electronic registries, which the FMCSA claimed needs additional time to comply with the federal system. This registry would be nationally based where training facilities and programs can partake in a comprehensive system. The FMCSA has known about the issue since 2015, yet no progress has been made.

Partial Registry Options

Even with the known problems, some advocates for the ELDT rule argued to implement a partial registry in a temporary fix for the safety of those on the highway and new truck drivers. Even the FMCSA proposed a partial release of the ELDT rule to state registries. A partial registry raises the possibilities of confusion and misinformation, which would make a full implementation even more difficult.  When the FMCSA asked for comments on a partial registry, most comments agreed to delay the entire program the proposed two years for a full release.

The ELDT rule is essential in improving safety across the nation’s highways.  Presently, there is minimum required training for drivers who receive a new Class A or B commercial driver’s license. With the ELDT, training would be comprehensive and federally mandated, including on-the-road training.  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2018 saw the highest number of fatalities involving large trucks since 1988. The National Safety Council stated that it was critical for truck drivers to receive proper training without delay.

Cherry Hill Truck Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Advocate for Those Injured by Negligent Truck Drivers

A car accident involving a tractor trailer can be devastating, perhaps even fatal. Truck drivers across the country need proper training to make our nation’s highways safer. If you were involved in an accident with a truck, contact the Cherry Hill truck accident lawyers at DiTomaso Law. We will fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 856-414-0010 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Philadelphia, we proudly serve clients throughout southeastern Pennsylvania and South Jersey, including Mt. Holly, Camden County, and Vineland.