Deaf Truckers Get Shot at Big Rigs

For the first time, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is granting an exemption to a test that prevents the deaf from operating commercial trucks. It's called the “forced whisper test." The person being tested must be able to hear a whisper from five feet away. The exemption is being granted to 40 drivers who are deaf. After two years, the Administration will reconsider whether to extend it based on how well the drivers perform. The exemption overrides any conflicting state laws and regulations.