What are the requisites to drive a trailer?
Trailers are typically huge vehicles carrying heavy loads and also have a huge training radius. They also carry hazardous materials with fire and environmental safety concerns. They move 24 /7 on the busiest interstate highways, sharing the roads with vehicles way smaller than themselves. Hence it is crucial that they are driven by well qualified, trained and experienced personnel, who meet the exacting standards set for them by the regulators. Let us review some key aspects of these requirements.
Every trailer driver has to possess a valid, state issued Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). He is to use the CDL issued by one state only and not use multiple ones issued by different states in the country. He needs to be a minimum of 21 years of age to drive on interstate highways, while some states like Iowa permit 18 year olds to drive trailers within the boundaries of the state. The driver of a trailer is expected to be able to speak and read English. He is required to be physically and mentally capable of executing his job satisfactorily. He must have visual acuity correctable to 20/40 and non-compromised in terms of sensation perception in the extremities. Persons suffering from medical conditions like insulin dependent diabetes, coronary and respiratory conditions and epilepsy may be disqualified from seeking the job, in the interest of safety. The applicant needs to be certified by a medical practitioner as medically fit to acquire a CDL before approaching the Department of Transportations Federal Motor, Carriers Safety Association (FMSCA).
The actual testing requirements for such a driver are now outlined. They are broadly similar in terms of knowledge and skills tested but specific tests may vary across states. These may include areas such as braking, turning, backing up, passing other vehicles and operating emergency equipment in the trailer. Some additional pre-requisites may be necessary in the case of those desirous of driving double trailers and tankers carrying hazardous materials. Some states may also demand basic knowledge of pre-trip inspection and maintenance parameters for persons driving trailers. Blood alcohol concentrations are set at a maximum of 0.04%, which is much lower than the 0.08% for drivers of other vehicles, owing to the quicker reflexes required in the case of these drivers.
Conditions for the disqualification of errant drivers are also strictly stipulated. DUI or refusal to submit to alcohol testing is one such condition. Trailer drivers are subject to drug testing and even random drug testing, pre-employment and post accident, regardless of who was at fault. There are situations where an individual may legally lose his CDL. These situations include involvement in felony crimes and transport of illegal drugs. A driver would also stand to lose his license if found disrespectful of speed limits or driving rashly. Leaving the scene of an accident may also be a cause for loss of license. The safety impact of the health, knowledge, skills, attitudes and lifestyles of trailer drivers means that the law takes a very strict stand on such drivers.
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