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The trucking industry is changing, not just because of self-driving freight trucks. As the economy grows, so does the demand for goods. 

And that means more and more cargo is being transported across the country — and around the world. Trucking companies are expected to hire an unprecedented number of drivers this year. That’s good news for people who want a job in trucking! But how will new technology like self-driving trucks affect your ability to land one? 

What Are Self-Driving Trucks?  

Self-driving trucks are trucks with some level of automation. They can operate on highways but require a human operator for off-highway driving, such as going through construction zones and urban areas.  

There are various levels of autonomy for self-driving trucks ranging from 1 to 5, but only levels 1 and 2 are legal for US roads. 

Level 1 automation means that the vehicle can provide steering assistance or braking and acceleration assistance, while level 2 applies to trucks with advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) with the ability to take over steering, acceleration, and breaking in specific scenarios. 

At the time being, only lower-level automation trucks are available; however, it’s worth mentioning that you can expect more as companies continue their research into this field. 

How Will Self-Driving Trucks Affect Truck Drivers?  

As automated trucking continues to develop, truckers may feel like they will be replaced. However, all levels of self-driving trucks need to be supervised by an experienced human truck driver. The skills required for a professional driver are not easily gained, and the training is extensive. In addition to driving expertise, drivers need good decision-making skills to ensure safe operations. 

Self-driving trucks are being developed for use on highways at low speeds, but this doesn’t mean that once on the road, these vehicles will make better decisions than humans. In fact, human drivers have an advantage over automated systems because they can react quickly if something goes wrong with their vehicle or if other cars on the road are driving dangerously. 

Trucking is the backbone of our economy, and truckers shouldn’t feel like they’ll be replaced anytime soon because the skills and experience gained as a professional truck driver outweigh driving automation by leaps and bounds! 

How Self-Driving Trucks Can Make Truck Driving Easier  

It’s no secret that driving trucks can be a stressful job. With long hours and tight deadlines, truck drivers often have to adhere to strict schedules that can take a toll on even the most seasoned professional. As such, the risk of accidents increases because of driver fatigue or other factors like road conditions and weather.  

Since self-driving trucks are designed for safety and assistance, they can potentially reduce the number of accidents and unsafe conditions on the road, making driving less stressful. Technologies like adaptive cruise control and break assistance enable a better driving experience for the driver. 

While the technology of self-driving trucks is expected to advance in the coming decades, it’s important to remember that even fully autonomous trucks require experienced human operators who are alert, engaged, and prepared to take control at any time. 

Drive with Warrior Logistics  

At Warrior Logistics, people are our greatest assets, and we strive to create an environment that enables each of our Warriors to achieve their fullest potential. We understand the value truck drivers bring to the American economy, so we ensure all our team members have the tools and resources they need for success. From rigorous safety training and competitive benefits to our state-of-the-art Cascadia fleet, we’ve got you covered. 

Move your career forward with one of America’s leading trucking companies. Apply today!