How old is the average Sikh truck driver?
But as drivers age toward retirement — the average American trucker is 55 — and a shortage grows, Sikh immigrants and their kids are increasingly taking up the job. Estimates of the number of Sikh truckers vary.
How old do you have to be to be a truck driver?
Last year, the government announced a pilot program to lower the age for driving trucks from 21 to 18 for those with truck-driving training in the military. According to the American Trucking Assn., the trucker shortage could reach 100,000 within years.
Who are Punjabi truck drivers in the United States?
“Punjabis are filling the gap,” says Raman Dhillon, a former driver who last year founded the North American Punjabi Trucking Assn. The Fresno-based group advises drivers on regulations, offers insurance and tire discounts, and runs a magazine: Punjabi Trucking. Singh prays inside his cab before leaving New Mexico for Oklahoma.
How often do Sikh Truckers Travel Route 66?
The road, much of it alongside Historic Route 66, forms the backbone of the Sikh trucking world. It’s a route that Pal, 38, knows well. Three times a month, he makes the seven-day round trip between his Fontana home and Indiana, where he drops off loads and picks up new ones.
How many hours does a truck driver have to drive?
After reaching their driving limit, truckers must rest for 34 hours. Truckers are limited to 11 hours of driving per shift. Although truck drivers are required to follow federal guidelines for driving hours, they are often pressured to maximize their working time…
How are truck drivers exempt from hours of service?
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there are several ways a truck driver can become exempt from the hours of service regulations. Many of these exemptions involve making up for lost time during abnormal driving conditions or truckers who only need to travel less than 100 air-miles to complete their routes.
What are the penalties for driving while distracted?
Penalties for truck drivers caught driving while distracted: Drivers can be fined up to $2,750. Repeat offenses will result in the driver being disqualified or put out of service for up to 120 days. The driver’s employer can be fined up to $11,000 if they knowingly allow or require drivers to use hand-held devices while driving.
What are the rights of a truck driver?
Making a complaint to the U. S. DOT about violations, or possible violations, of commercial vehicle safety regulations. Making a complaint to your employer about violations, or possible violations, of commercial vehicle safety regulations. Refusing to drive a commercial vehicle when impaired due to illness or fatigue.