In an effort to recognize the challenges faced by farm families in Alberta, the provincial government has announced a farm-specific exemption to their Class 1 Learning Pathway.
The Canadian Underwriter reports that the Learning Pathway is replacing the Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) program for Class 1 licences that was implemented nationwide after the tragic Humboldt Broncos bus crash in 2018. The incident, caused by an inexperienced truck driver, resulted in 16 deaths and 13 injuries, prompting a national overhaul of commercial driver training.
A Class 1 licence allows individuals to operate nearly all types of vehicles except motorcycles. It’s required for most commercial drivers — haulers, delivery drivers, and more — and can also apply to buses, ambulances, and taxis with the proper endorsements.
Farm-focused exemptions
Under the Learning Pathway, members of farm families can take the Class 1 test without completing in-class or in-cab training, provided they demonstrate sufficient knowledge and skills. Those wishing to drive vehicles with air brakes must still obtain the Q endorsement.
“They still have to know everything,” explains Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen. “They have to pass the test, but they don’t have to go through the process of in-classroom or in-cab training, because they already have that institutional knowledge.”
Farm children frequently start operating heavy equipment at a young age, usually staying within their own property or local area and far away from major highways. Hiring drivers is simply not economically feasible for many farm families.
Government research has shown that MELT did not significantly reduce insurance claims, which prompted a review and industry consultation resulting in the Learning Pathway. Stakeholders included trucking companies, driving schools, insurance firms, and more.
An eye test and a driver’s medical assessment are requirements for all Class 1 operators.
Addressing the commercial driver shortage
Commercial drivers looking to operate big rigs still need to complete the entire Learning Pathway program, which offers up to 133 hours of training — 20 more than MELT — including enhanced air brake and hands-on instruction tailored to real-world driving conditions.
Alberta is currently experiencing a shortage of commercial drivers, the true scale of which is not known. Government data from the third quarter of 2023 suggests there are 4,260 unfilled positions, despite there being 149,000 licenced Class 1 drivers in the province. However, only 31% of those drivers are actively employed in trucking.
This year’s provincial budget earmarks $54 million over three years for two grants involving commercial trucking. Alberta also aims to lead the way in creating a nationally recognized Red Seal system for truckers, which mirrors the model used in skilled trades.
Farm insurance in a nutshell
Farm insurance shares many similarities with home insurance, with one very important distinction. It comes with the knowledge that a farm owner’s property is much more than just a residence — it’s also a livelihood. Your home is also your business and it deserves comprehensive protection.
At Lane’s, our experienced farm insurance specialists work with a range of providers to offer customizable coverage options designed to safeguard every aspect of your farm operation.
Here are some aspects of what farm insurance covers:
Farm buildings
Farm insurance protects not only your residence, but also various agricultural structures such as barns, Quonset huts and drive sheds. It can also extend to construction projects on your property.
Farm machinery
Your essential equipment, such as your tractors, trailers, ATVs, combines, and irrigation systems, can all be included under your policy. We recommend adding Loss of Use coverage, which functions similarly to that included in some auto insurance policies, to help you stay operational if repairs are needed.
Livestock coverage
Your livestock can be insured with options ranging from basic protection against fire and explosion to more comprehensive plans covering risks like wild animal attacks or stranding incidents.
Flexible deductibles
Farm insurance allows you to choose from a variety of deductible options ranging from $0 to $5,000, allowing you to tailor your policy to suit your needs and budget.
Loss of earnings protection
Your income is vital as a business owner. Loss of Earnings coverage helps replace lost income due to an insured event, ensuring your financial stability during recovery.
Contact Lane’s for more information about coverage for your farm
We at Lane’s deeply respect the farming industry in Alberta and have qualified experts on hand who are able to design and build a customized farm insurance policy based on your individual needs. Brokers know the right questions to ask to ensure you are treated fairly.
Contact us at our Calgary, Edmonton, Banff and greater Alberta offices.
