Summary
A fatal truck crash in Florida involving a Sikh driver has caused fear among Sikh truck drivers in the United States. The incident has highlighted concerns over language requirements for commercial drivers and led to harassment against Sikh drivers at truck stops. The crash also resulted in a pause on issuing work visas for foreign truck drivers.
Key Facts
- Many Sikh truck drivers in the U.S. fear backlash following a fatal crash involving a Sikh driver in Florida.
- About 150,000 Sikhs work in the American trucking industry, making up a significant portion of drivers.
- The crash involved Harjinder Singh, who was charged with manslaughter after a collision killed three people.
- Harjinder Singh reportedly entered the U.S. illegally and obtained a Commercial Driver's License without passing an English exam.
- The federal government has paused issuing work visas for foreign truck drivers after the incident.
- Sikh drivers report increased harassment at truck stops, partly due to tighter immigration enforcement.
- Sikh temples in California are offering English classes to help drivers meet language requirements.
- The trucking industry is worried about a potential future driver shortage due to these issues.
