Can Someone With Physical Disabilities Become A Truck Driver?
Source The above picture shows a row of parked trucks
Truck drivers are an essential part of the supply chain. They navigate through roads and weather conditions to deliver the goods to the consumer. Therefore, this job is necessary in the US. There are probably about three and a half million truck drivers in the US, ensuring the freight gets to its final destination on time. They reach every corner of the country, delivering everything from everyday essentials and medicines to luxury goods. Can you imagine what modern society would look like without truck drivers? Store shelves would be empty, and we would get our essentials.
With the current shortage of truck drivers, companies offer many benefits to those willing to enter this industry. You can check what a truck driving job offers here and see for yourself. Can a disabled person become a truck driver? This article answers this question!
Can someone with physical disability become a truck driver?
Yes, individuals with physical disabilities can become truck drivers. Did you know that the most experienced truck drivers have some sort of disability? The good news is that not all types of physical disability prevent a person from driving. Most of them allow the individual to drive a truck professionally.
In some cases, changes to the truck would be implemented to accommodate the driver. Technology solutions for loading gane downloading and structural cabin changes are some excellent examples. With the current technology developments, updating the truck to accommodate the driver is easier than ever. Therefore, physical abilities don't have to be an obstacle to progressing with your truck driving career.
For example, wheelchair ramps and lifts are provided. Hand controls and adaptive electronic controls are also available. Other improvements, such as left foot accelerators, reduced effort braking, and pedal extensions, are also intended to accommodate the driver.
Are disabled truck drivers common?
Yes, disabled truck drivers are standard in the US. We have two groups: drivers who became truck drivers with disability and ones who become disabled while working or otherwise. No matter when they become disabled, this industry welcomes truck drivers. It is important to note that they get retrained to adjust to the driving process with a new disability.
What does the law say?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) covers this topic. This legislation clearly states that employers should make reasonable adjustments to allow the working process for disabled individuals. Several cases have been brought to court in the last few years. In most instances, the disabled drivers got large payouts. However, in some cases, the court ruled against the drivers. With the legal legislation available, the final decision depends on the specific situation.
How can a disabled person become a truck driver?
Individuals who want to become truck drivers should have a commercial driving license, pass a skill evaluation, get a USDOT PIN from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and apply for a disabled parking permit.
The first step is obtaining a certification from a medical professional to get a commercial driving license. Large parts of disabilities don't disqualify a person straight away. If someone demonstrates they can drive despite their disability, they will be approved. This will be assessed during the skill evaluation process.
However, keep in mind that a few disabilities can disqualify a person. People with diabetes who need to be injected with their medicine don't qualify. However, pens that take their prescription orally are eligible. Cardiovascular disease, some respiratory diseases, blindness in one eye, and 3-stage severity hypertension can interfere with driving and are not approved.