(WWJ) -- As you go to fuel up this summer, there’s a possibility you could find your pump empty -- and it won’t be because the country has run out of gasoline.
Tanker truck drivers who are needed to deliver fuel to gas stations are currently in short supply, and it could lead to a nationwide gas shortage.
The National Tank Truck Carriers Association attributes the shortage to the COVID-19 pandemic, as low demand for fuel due to stay-at-home orders resulted in drivers being laid off, retiring or seeking a career change.
This has resulted in 20% and 25% fewer drivers, according to CNN Business.
"We've been dealing with a driver shortage for a while, but the pandemic took that issue and metastasized it," executive vice president of the NTTC, Ryan Streblow said in a statement. "It certainly has grown exponentially."
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A special certification and a commercial driver's license are required to drive a tanker truck, as well as several weeks of training.
Operators are planning to raise pay in order to incentivize drivers to fill the vacant positions.
In the meantime, experts suggest filling your tank early, especially as the summer season ramps up and people begin to hit the road for activities and vacations.