#United States #driver training #Des Moines #American Transportation Research Institute #ATRI

ATRI Unveils Key Research Priorities for 2025

The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) has recently gathered its Board of Directors in Des Moines to approve the research priorities for 2025. This initiative, under the leadership of Chair Derek Leathers from Werner Enterprises, highlights significant challenges and opportunities in the transportation sector.

During their annual meeting, ATRI's Research Advisory Committee (RAC) identified several pressing issues affecting the industry. The compiled list aims to address concerns from rising insurance costs to the effectiveness of driver training programs and issues regarding compliance with cabotage regulations. Let's delve into these research priorities.

1. Rising Insurance Costs and Self-Insurance Motivations

Past ATRI studies have shed light on the grave implications of escalating insurance expenses on motor carriers. Many operators have responded by reducing coverage levels, increasing deductibles, and enhancing safety technology implementation. The forthcoming research will deepen the analysis of commercial auto insurance trends and explore the increasing adoption of self-insurance and captives among trucking companies. This institution aims to document how these financial trends are evolving in the current market.

2. Efficacy of Entry-Level Driver Training on Safety Outcomes

The introduction of the FMCSA's 2022 Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) mandate aimed to elevate safety standards by requiring new drivers to complete structured training programs before obtaining their Commercial Driver’s License. While the intention is to enhance preparedness for real-world challenges, doubts regarding the actual effectiveness of these training programs remain. This upcoming research will build on previous investigations linking driver training and safety results, with a focus on utilizing enhanced safety data and statistical analysis to understand better the impacts of mandated training.

3. Safety Impacts of In-Cab Monitoring

Technology in monitoring driver behavior within vehicles is now ubiquitous. Many fleets are leveraging in-cab monitoring systems to gain insights into driver activities, aiming to improve safety. ATRI plans to conduct research that aggregates confidential data from these systems to evaluate how they connect to safety improvements. The findings will also seek to illustrate the best practices for managing in-cab data to optimize safety outcomes across different fleets.

4. Capitalizing on Telematics Data

Telematics has transformed avenues for asset tracking and communication in the trucking industry. However, variations exist in how effectively companies harness this technology to enhance performance. ATRI’s research will compile a comprehensive overview of telematics tools available, aiming to aid carriers of all sizes in employing this technology for improved operational performance.

5. Understanding the Prevalence and Impact of Cabotage Violations

The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) allows limited transportation by non-U.S. carriers; however, cabotage violations, where these carriers conduct multiple domestic deliveries, raise significant concerns for American trucking companies. This research will aim to quantify the extent and implications of these violations, which can lead to unfair market competition, ultimately harming U.S.-based businesses.

In summary, these research priorities underscore ATRI’s commitment to addressing critical challenges while enhancing the transportation industry’s functionality and safety. These studies will provide a foundation for developing informed policies that benefit the trucking sector, ensuring it operates efficiently and fairly.

ATRI’s pursuit of these initiatives reflects its dedication as a nonprofit research organization focused on the vital role of freight transportation in maintaining a safe and efficient system. As the landscape of the transportation sector evolves, ATRI’s research will be essential to inform stakeholders and policymakers alike.