This project addressed the licensing requirements for drivers of heavy trucks and the feasibility of federal licensing of these drivers. Data analyses indicate that heavy trucks pose a problem, but many of the key questions cannot be adequately answered on the basis of available data. Approximately half the states have classified licensing of these drivers, but the fact that other states do not, seriously limits the safety of the public in all states. The Bureau of Motor Carrier Safety (BMCS) has responsibility for most drivers in interstate trucking, but they rely primarily on motor carriers to see that regulations are observed. BMCS does not have sufficient manpower to insure compliance. Although many state regulatory authorities have adopted BMCS regulations, neither they nor BMCS can determine how many drivers they are responsible for, let alone identify them BMCS and state regulations may appear adequate, but lack of effective enforcement leaves major gaps in monitoring. Licensing regulations cover verification of driver identity; medical requirements; vision, knowledge, and skills testing; and an interstate identification file that is checked whenever license is first issued in any state. It is recommended that existing state programs in licensing, records, and enforcement be used in establishing an effective licensing program. Federal standards with enforceable sanctions will probably be necessary to encourage states to upgrade their programs. However, a co-operative state program should be far more effective and less costly than a federal licensing program. (Author/publisher)
Abstract