Major carriers’ group opposes driverless trucks

A trucking industry group of major carriers opposes deployment of fully autonomous, driverless trucks.

In a statement Tuesday, Feb. 28, the Alliance for Driver Safety and Security says it “supports the development” of automated truck technology, so long as deployment of such technology doesn’t leave unmanned trucks on U.S. highways.

The alliance said it supports systems that aid drivers and keep them safer, said Lane Kidd, director of the alliance. And, drivers ought not to worry about losing their jobs “for many years,” said Kidd.

The group’s statement read:

“Drivers are integral to supply chain accountability, as well as managing unforeseen weather events, emergencies, detours, vehicle conditions, computer software programs, cybersecurity disruptions, cargo security and in providing efficient customer service.”

Members of the alliance includes J.B. Hunt, KLLM Transportation, Knight Transportation, Maverick USA, US Xpress, Dupré Logistics and Cargo Transporters.