Attorney Amy Witherite: English Language Requirement Promotes Safety

By: Witherite Law Group via Business Wire

May 01, 2025 at 09:47 AM EDT

Attorney and traffic safety expert Amy Witherite says the Trump administration's policy requiring commercial motor vehicle (CMV) license holders to demonstrate English proficiency is a meaningful step toward enhancing safety on U.S. roads and highways. She emphasizes that clear communication is essential for understanding road signs, following safety protocols, and interacting with law enforcement—making language proficiency a critical component of road safety.

Under the requirement, English does not need to be the driver's first language. Still, they must be able to hold a basic conversation, understand and obey all traffic signs, answer officers’ questions accurately, and complete all reports and logs as needed. The Trump administration is ending an Obama administration policy that dropped the requirement for English proficiency.

“We have seen too many situations where drivers cannot read road signs or electronic warning signs that warn of traffic hazards or construction zones,” said Amy Witherite, founder of the Witherite Law Group and traffic safety expert. “While some traffic signs have specific shapes to denote their meaning many electronic signs require the driver to be able to read English,” said Witherite. “Accidents caused by 18-wheelers are often catastrophic for innocent victims and this requirement will help make our roads safer.”

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has documented cases where drivers’ inability to read our signs and speak our language may have contributed to a series of fatal accidents.

“When our firm engages in litigation following a traffic accident it is not uncommon for a truck driver to need an interpreter when they participate in a deposition,” said Witherite. “It is fair to ask how these drivers can operate safely if they cannot read road signs, instruction and safety manuals for their vehicles or fill out government-mandated reports.”

“The inability to speak English also makes it more difficult for first responders who conduct the initial investigations into accidents,” said Witherite. “The English language requirement is a necessary step to improve safety on our nation’s highways.”

The Witherite Law Group specializes in vehicle accident cases and offers crucial support for individuals involved in accidents with driverless vehicles. For more information visit their website. www.witheritelaw.com.