Pennsylvania road users may want to learn about the proposed rule that has been published by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The agency, which regulates the truck driving industry, is proposing additional requirements for people who want to become commercial truck drivers.
The FMCSA is calling for truck drivers to receive at least 30 hours of training behind the wheel. The rule would also establish a core curriculum that all truck drivers would need to complete before they could get their CDLs. Those who are trying to upgrade their licenses to an A from a B would also be required to complete the training and curriculum.
For the core curriculum, prospective drivers would need to learn about the different controls and instruments of the trucks. The driving would need to include at least 10 hours on a range. Of the other 20, at least 10 hours would need to be on a highway. The agency is requesting public comment for 60 days. The rule would become effective three years after the final rule is published in the Federal Register.
Federal trucking regulations are in place to help make certain the drivers have the necessary qualifications as well as to help prevent truck accidents. Large trucks are much heavier than passenger cars, making accidents involving them especially deadly. When people are seriously injured in an accident with a large truck, they may be able to recover damages if the truck driver was negligent. In addition to the driver being named as a defendant, the injured victim’s attorney may find it advisable to name the trucking company itself as well under the theory of respondeat superior.