Quote:
Originally Posted by MR's 2SS
Yes I believe there have been issues with declining driver skills since the 80s when they first started with the CDL licensing. I knew of several great old timers who retired because they were afraid they couldnt pass a written test. Some of them couldnt read... but they sure as hell could drive.
For years now they have been filling seats with... recent immigrants. I used to feel a lot more comfortable around the big rigs on the interstate than I do now. I know there are still great drivers out there but Im betting they dont like what they see either.
The gasoline shortage article I read stated that lost demand for fuel caused drivers to move to companies shipping freight that was still in demand. I suppose that's legit. But hazmat tanker hauling pays a lot better than dry freight from Amazon. So if thats the case then increased demand for fuel will suck them right back without a moments delay.
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My stepdad was a trucker from 1958-1990
The trucking industry is one where skills of operating a big rig safely is very dependent on people who know how to do many things at the same time with their full attention to everything.
I would not trust a trucker who could not float an Eaton-Fuller without using the clutch. There’s one situation where the automatic transmission is making it less safe for all of us on the highway
