Alberta bans over a dozen unsafe trucking firms and five training schools
The Alberta government is taking action to make roads safer by shutting unsafe truck driving schools and reckless trucking companies.
The Alberta government is taking action to make roads safer by shutting unsafe truck driving schools and reckless trucking companies.
Transport Minister Devin Dreeshen said on Friday the province has shut down five driver training schools and disciplined multiple instructors and examiners.
“Our families’ safety won’t be put at risk by reckless operators who ignore the rules. Anyone cutting corners or operating unsafe trucks will be removed from our roads,” said Dreeshen in a press release.
“Alberta truckers have earned a reputation as some of the most trusted drivers in the country, and we will not allow a few bad actors to undermine that trust.”
So far, 39 disciplinary letters have been sent, more than $100,000 in fines issued, 12 instructor licences revoked, and four examiners warned.
Thirteen trucking companies have also been removed from Alberta roads for unsafe trucks or poor driving practices.
Seven of those were “chameleon” carriers or companies that try to dodge safety rules by changing names or moving their operations.
Since the tragic Humboldt Broncos bus crash in 2018, there has been increasing scrutiny of the vetting and training procedures for semi-truck drivers. This concern was further amplified earlier this year when Calgary Police charged 25-year-old truck driver Gaganpreet Singh with failing to remain at the scene of a collision, and also with failing to remain at the scene of a collision causing death.
Alberta is also tackling companies that misclassify drivers as independent contractors to avoid payroll taxes and benefits. During a July inspection, authorities found that 20% of 195 drivers stopped were likely misclassified, including some temporary foreign workers.
The province is raising training standards for new truck drivers through the Class 1 Learning Pathway. The program requires 125–133 hours of behind-the-wheel training and sets stricter rules for schools and instructors.
Interim chairman of the Professional Truck Training Alliance of Canada Don MacDonald threw his support behind the changes.
“(It) will not only contribute to safer roadways but also foster greater professionalism and integrity across all sectors of the industry,” said MacDonald.
By the end of 2025, drivers’ experience records will follow them, not the company, making hiring and insurance safer and more transparent.
Alberta is investing $54 million over three years to support driver recruitment, training, and retention.
The government will continue regular inspections and audits to make sure drivers, schools, and companies follow safety rules.
“Alberta truckers have a reputation for being some of the most trusted drivers in the country,” Dreeshen said. “We will not let a few bad actors put our families at risk.”
Good news!