Answer: No. The driver is unnecessarily concerned. Most AV testing occurs with a limited number of large trucking companies partnering with AV technology companies. The testing primarily occurs in areas without the challenge of extreme cold and snow under controlled circumstances, with drivers monitoring the vehicle from the driver's seat.

The technology's safety in various conditions must be proven before commercial deployment can occur at scale. Many experts believe drivers will need to monitor systems from the cab and perform other non-driving duties for the foreseeable future, like airline pilots watching controls while the autopilot is engaged.

Drivers' jobs may change in the following ways:

• The driving task could be assisted with technology allowing drivers to spend more time on vehicle monitoring, customer service, vehicle readiness, and cargo securement.
• Advanced driver assistance systems and advanced levels of automation have the potential to make driving safer due to the sensors and cameras continuously monitoring the roadway.
• The complexity of operating AVs may require additional training, which may create career options for senior drivers.

These are potential impacts on the driving job, not an elimination of the role. The industry is not close to removing drivers from the truck, and we remain about 80,000 drivers short of the numbers needed to meet demand.