n the U.S. freight industry, language can be just as critical as driving skills. Transportation safety experts are raising concerns that truck drivers who lack English proficiency are more likely to face dangerous situations on the road—putting not only themselves at risk, but also others.
Drivers with Limited English Skills Face Greater Road Risks, Experts Warn
Although federal law requires a basic understanding of English to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), many operators enter the industry with limited language skills. This often becomes a serious barrier when reading traffic signs, following load instructions, or communicating with authorities during inspections or emergencies.
“A driver might handle their truck perfectly, but if they can’t understand a warning sign or a critical instruction in English, they’re at risk,” says Luis Herrera, a road safety consultant with over 20 years of experience.
“A driver might handle their truck perfectly, but if they can’t understand a warning sign or a critical instruction in English, they’re at risk,” says Luis Herrera, a road safety consultant with over 20 years of experience.
Real-World Consequences
Drivers with limited English skills often face:
- Difficulties during DOT inspections
- Fines due to misunderstandings with law enforcement
- Problems navigating routes or staying on schedule
- Miscommunication with dispatchers and customers
Recent insurance reports show a rise in incidents linked to language barriers, resulting in financial losses and reputational damage for both drivers and brokers.
Fletes USA’s Commitment
At Fletes USA, we recognize these challenges and actively work to reduce them. That’s why we support our drivers with technical English guidance, road safety training, and personalized assistance throughout the logistics process.
“Many of our drivers come from Latin American countries and are extremely responsible workers. Our job is to help them succeed in every aspect, including communication,” says Joshua Velasquez, freight broker at Fletes USA.
The Solution: Education, Not ExclusionAs a company that values Hispanic talent, we believe the solution is not to close doors but to offer more tools. Ongoing training, access to bilingual resources, and professional support are key to building a safer and more efficient transportation environment.
At Fletes USA, we remain committed to initiatives that strengthen our drivers’ preparation—because for us, safety starts with communication.
