Rising Safety Concerns on U.S. Highways
LOS ANGELES (NewsNation) — An increasing number of safety issues have been highlighted on America’s highways, with U.S. truck drivers expressing alarm over the dangers posed by non-English-speaking drivers who may not fully grasp traffic regulations.
Survey Highlights Language Barrier Issues
A recent survey by the American Transportation Research Institute identified non-English-speaking truckers as a major concern among drivers.
California’s Noncompliance with Federal Requirements
The U.S. Department of Transportation revealed that California is the only state opting not to enforce a new federal mandate requiring English language proficiency for truck drivers. This information surfaced shortly after a trucker, who was illegally in the U.S., allegedly caused a multi-vehicle accident in Southern California, resulting in three fatalities. The trucker’s commercial driver’s license was upgraded by the state just days before the incident, which is currently under investigation.
Improper Licenses Issued in California
According to the Transportation Department, over 25% of commercial driver’s licenses given to noncitizens in California have been issued incorrectly.
The Sikh Trucking Community
The U.S. is home to an estimated 150,000 Sikh truck drivers, with California having the largest concentration. Many are attracted to the trucking profession due to its accessibility, flexible hours, and the compatibility it has with their religious practices.
Concerns About English Proficiency
In a discussion with NewsNation affiliate Border Report, a truck driver noted that he has been questioned more frequently about his English language skills.
“You don’t have to be scared, you know,” said Paramveep Singh. “Calm down and give them an answer. People should know English to communicate with each other. You know, that’s our international language.”
Measures Taken Against Unqualified Drivers
Across the U.S., 5,500 commercial truck drivers have had their driving privileges revoked for not passing basic English tests while operating north of the border, according to Israel Delgado Vallejo, vice president of Mexico’s Northwest Chamber of Freight Transporters.
Six months ago, President Trump reinstated an executive order mandating that commercial truck drivers must be able to communicate effectively in English to understand road signs and interact with law enforcement.
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