I don't want to start an argument here, but... more screening of new drivers

Screening? How do you screen for stupid?


Training, and I mean real training, not a class of revenue generators used as slaves to get the most $$ for the company.

 

Also goes back to the laziness of the upcoming generation and the lack of pride in everything they do. A driver that respects his equipment and takes pride in what he does, does not maneuver his rig in such a manner. This is just one example of many of those who are poorly trained, and flat out don't give a darn.

 

Maybe a good argument would be healthy !!!!

 

How do you know that the trucks you saw swerving were being driven by new drivers? I not sure how you automatically jump from "truck swerved" to "new driver". Maybe I missed something.

 

Poor planning = poor maneuvering(in many cases)....Also a lack of situational and spatial awareness...

 

the only "screening" done at the schools are:

criminal background (BCI), DMV, High school grad (or GED), credit check (if they apply for financial aid), and maybe a DAC as well.

then of course, they MUST speak or at least UNDERSTAND English..

beyond that, there is no checking for stupidity, common sense, morals, ethics, aptitude, or even personal grooming......

but yes, i too can "see what you are saying", way to many people that cannot control their own personal life, a car, mental stability, or family get behind the wheel of big rigs monthly and think they can drive and handle things as they occur on the road.

hopefully with the new changes that are set to take place this coming July for a CDL permit (see my thread about the FMCSR), will make a difference, but i wouldn't bet too much of the farm on it.

 

It's up the school instructors to see stupidity and not feel compelled to pass everyone that can squeak by but the fiscal aspect keeps that from happening as schools don't want to give money back to anyone...You also have to think they are only dealing in the basic of basics and stupidity won't always rear it's head in that phase...If they get past that then it's up to the orientation folks and trainers to weed out the 'less than able'...And of course, some will slip thru all those before they prove they're incapable in the long run, pun intended...

 

I am quite baffled how you seem to think this is done only by new drivers.


I know of some that have been driving since the early seventies and lose track of where they are and suddenly make changes like this.

Does not make it safe or an excuse, but come on. It is not just newbies.