Published November 9, 2023
In the aftermath of a catastrophic wreck on Friday, November 3rd, where a semi-truck hauling gravel lost its brakes, the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) is pointing fingers at a larger issue within the trucking industry—specifically, a widespread problem with truck driver training.
The Wreck Unfolded: A Series of Intersection Disasters
The incident, which unfolded in Toole, Utah, involved a semi-truck careening through multiple intersections before colliding with a car dealership. While the 26-year-old truck driver emerged unscathed, nearly a dozen other individuals suffered injuries. Now, the spotlight is on the OOIDA, raising concerns about the adequacy of truck driver training programs.
OOIDA Executive Vice President Speaks Out: A Training Void in Trucking
Lewie Pugh, the Executive Vice President of OOIDA, attributes the dramatic wreck to a critical gap in truck driver training. He emphasizes the lack of preparation for handling emergencies, pointing out that the trucking industry falls short in adequately training its drivers compared to other sectors.
The Problem at the Core: Training vs. Passing Tests
Pugh highlights a fundamental flaw in the industry’s approach to training. Unlike professions where individuals are extensively trained to handle unexpected situations, truck drivers often only need to pass a test to obtain their license. Pugh’s concern is palpable when he states, “All you got to do to become a truck driver is to pass a test, and that is pretty scary.”
Industry Critique: Young Drivers Unprepared for the Road
The OOIDA Executive Vice President further criticizes the industry’s failure to mentor and guide new drivers adequately. He points out that many young individuals enter the industry without a comprehensive understanding of their responsibilities, leading to potentially disastrous consequences on the road.
Expert Insight: Brakes and the Perils of Riding Them
Truck driver Roland Roberts, familiar with the area of the incident, sheds light on a potential scenario that could have led to the brake failure. Roberts suggests that the driver, navigating through town, might have overheated the brakes by riding them excessively. This insight highlights the importance of not only driver training but also understanding the nuances of operating heavy vehicles in specific terrains.
