Sep 17, 2018 • Community

Brake Safety Week is almost here. Are you ready?

Brake Safety Week is almost here. Are you ready?

Are you ready for the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) Brake Safety Week happening later this month? From September 16-22, CVSA-certified inspectors will conduct a weeklong inspection blitz throughout the U.S. and Canada focusing on brake systems. CVSA reported that 14 percent of truck drivers were placed out-of-service for brake-related violations during last year’s Brake Safety Day. Getting placed out-of-service costs drivers valuable time and money, so it’s important that you don’t find yourself in the same situation. Making sure you’re prepared will not only help you pass an inspection and keep you moving, but it will also make our roadways a safer place.

Most inspections during the blitz will be full Level I inspections. This comprehensive 37-step procedure examines driver operating requirements and vehicle mechanical fitness, and will also focus on the inspection of:

Brake-system components to identify loose or missing parts
air or hydraulic fluid leaks
defective rotor conditions
measurement of pushrod travel
mismatched air chamber sizes across axles
air reservoir integrity and mounting
worn linings, pads, drums or rotors
required brake-system warning devices
other brake-system components

There will also be 12 jurisdictions using performance-based brake testing equipment to measure vehicle braking efficiency.

So, what can you do to be ready for your inspection?

Have your driver’s license and registration easily available.
Perform your regular preventative maintenance procedures.
Conduct your pre-trip visual inspection. Make sure to look for loose hoses, leaks and any damage; check air disc brakes for cracks and grooving; and ensure air chambers are intact and in the correct position.
Inspect brakes more in-depth looking for leaks, checking brake linings for cracks and wear, and measuring the brake stroke, etc.
Utilize the Trucker Path app to see inspection facilities and get an idea of when you might expect to receive an inspection during the blitz.

We hope these tips will help make your inspection go smoothly. It’s also important to remember that it’s a best practice to always keep your truck well-maintained, inspect your brake systems regularly, and perform a thorough pre-trip inspection before every trip. You still have time to address any issues and get yourself and your truck ready for the 2018 CVSA Brake Safety Week!

Tagsdrivers truck drivers brakes brake safety brake safety week inspections

New Year, New Trucks 2021 [p]The trucking industry has had to deal with several challenges in the past few years, with more yet to come. The ever-changing world has ushered in a new era urging the industry to change with it. We have arrived at a point in time, where the environment is better cared for, and driver safety is held supreme. As a result, traditional semi-truck manufacturers have had to adapt and conform to modern safety and emission standards. The new threat from all-electric trucks is another drive for old truck manufacturers to change their ways or risk losing to the competition. We are nearing the era of sustainable, greener trucks that are environmentally friendly and easy to drive. [/p] [p]So what do we have in store for 2021? Let's take a look at the much-awaited upcoming trucks from the industry-leading marques. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Kenworth [/b][/p] [p]Kenworth is one of the oldest truck manufacturers in America with a rich history. They have plenty to offer when it comes to heavy-duty class 7 and class 8 trucks. The Kenworth T680, the Kenworth W990, and the Kenworth T880 are three notable mentions that deserve a place on our list. The three trucks are due to come out in 2021 with a fresh approach towards safety, efficiency, and performance. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-New-Year-New-Trucks-2021-Kenworth.jpg" alt=""] [p]The giant machines are safer than ever, with a host of driver-assist features to make driving hassle-free. The W990 and the T880 can sport the Wabco OnGuardACTIVE safety system that enhances your abilities as a driver. [/p] [p]What’s more, the new T680 gets Level 2 autonomy with Bendix Wingman Fusion, which is a step into the future for the traditional marque. Kenworth has also partnered with the Meritor for the T680e, an electric version of the sturdy T680 that would work wonderfully on short routes. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Peterbilt [/b][/p] [p]The Peterbilt 579 comes new and improved for 2021 with even better comfort and safety options. The 579 truck has been a popular choice in the past years, and more customers are likely to turn towards the new UltraLoft Sleeper model. The fresh model 579 comes with the Bendix Wingman Fusion system as standard.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-New-Year-New-Trucks-2021-Peterbilt.jpg" alt=""] [p]The 579 truck has top of the line aerodynamics that reduce drag, improve efficiency, and result in overall better performance on the highway. Not to mention the mighty engine that roars under the hood producing inhumane levels of torque. [/p] [p]The Peterbilt 389 is another popular model that makes its way into 2021 with extra features to go with its traditional styling. It comes equipped with Peterbilt’s SmartNav technology and the SmartLINQ diagnostics system that allows over the air updates and lets you diagnose engine issues while sitting in the cabin. The 389 is a step in the future with the same traditional looks. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Mack [/b][/p] [p]Mack trucks have been around for more than a century and they have proven to be the best of the rest. The Mack Anthem is a testament to Mack's unwavering commitment to making up-class trucks. The Anthem comes with a dominant design, a potent engine, and a comfortable interior making it the perfect all-around truck for highway driving. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-New-Year-New-Trucks-2021-Mack.jpg" alt=""] [p]The 2021 machine gets Command Steer that reduces the driver's effort by over 30% allowing you to maneuver with masterful precision anytime every time. However, if you are a bit of an old-timer then the Mack Pinnacle is the truck for you. This traditionally designed big-rig carries on with the design philosophy of an old truck, but it has the safety and technology of a modern one. The Pinnacle has a low center of gravity for better road grip, a forward axle position for heavier payloads, and a sturdy chassis to handle extremely heavy freight. All in all, a great truck for both off-road and on-road applications. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Freightliner [/b][/p] [p]The Freightliner Cascadia takes the limelight in the Freightliner line-up as this new truck comes with a host of modern technological upgrades that old truckers would only dream of in their time. The Daimler Detroit Assurance Suite 5.0 comes equipped in the Cascadia providing Level 2 autonomy and safety. On the other hand, the Detroit powertrain ensures no payload is heavy enough for Cascadia. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-New-Year-New-Trucks-2021-Freightliner.jpg" alt=""] [p]If you are looking to shift to a greener option within the Freightliner line-up, you can consider the eCascadia, an electric version of the brilliant Cascadia. The e-version gets all the tech and safety features and the comfort options found in the Cascadia. The largest difference comes in terms of performance as the eCascadia gets a 475 kWh battery to power the truck for 250 miles. The 0 to 80% charge takes 90 minutes, which is remarkable considering the size of the battery. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Conclusion[/b][/p] [p]When it comes to buying a semi-truck in America there are many options to consider. You can go for the more traditional looking variants or step into modern territory with the futuristic-looking big-rigs. If you go even further, there is the all-electric truck market that hasn't been tapped to its full potential. The Tesla Semi is one truck you can consider as it is planned for a 2021 release. No matter the case, with <a href="https://www.epa.gov/transportation-air-pollution-and-climate-change/carbon-pollution-transportation">emissions reaching alarming levels</a>, it is time for the semi-truck manufacturing industry to move into new territories. [/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Jan 15, 2021 • Carriers

Industry Update - April 5, 2019 <h5>By Jeremy Feucht</h5> <h3><strong><u>Did you Know?</u></strong></h3> On April 3, 1974, the worst series of tornadoes ever recorded hit the US and southern Canada. With over 50,000 people affected in total and six states declaring a State of Emergency, many big rigs were sent in to do the cleanup. Xenia, Ohio was the first hit and it would need three months and over 200 trucks to finally cleanup the disaster. <h3><strong><u>Trucking tip of the Week</u></strong></h3> Its that time of the year again. Spring is here which means warmer weather and concern about your tires needs to be at the front of your mind. As the weather warms, the amount of air pressure in your tires and the tread remaining on them will really start to show. Lower air pressure means more friction on your tires. More friction that your tires create, the more stress that is placed on them. Be careful out there. <h3><strong><u>Toll Road Fight</u></strong></h3> OOIDA and the National Motorist Association, for now, have lost its bid against the state of Pennsylvania <a href="https://www.post-gazette.com/news/crime-courts/2019/04/04/Pennsylvania-Turnpike-federal-lawsuit-dismissed-tolls-truckers-organization-Port-Authority/stories/201904040090">to remove the tolls</a> on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. On April 4, 2019, US District Judge Yvette Kane approved a motion by lawyers for the turnpike and the state of Pennsylvania to dismiss the charges that claimed over $6 billion in tolls had been collected illegally since 2007. <h3><strong><u>Truckers to the Rescue</u></strong></h3> As I have long stated, this country would fold without the work of truckers. Here is some more proof of that. With the flooding and devastation that has occurred across the Midwest, farmers and ranchers are having a difficult time keeping their heads above water, let alone that of their cattle. Knowing their plight, <a href="https://www.freightwaves.com/news/trucking/truckers-step-up-to-help-farmers">truckers have come to their rescue</a> with hay to help get them through. Where would we be without the American trucker? <h3><strong><u>Regulations</u></strong></h3> With so many regulations, and general vagueness that the personal conveyance rule is written, it is no wonder FMCSA’s <a href="https://www.ttnews.com/articles/fmcsa-drivers-dont-overthink-personal-conveyance-time">Joe DeLorenzo had to field so many questions at MATS</a> surrounding the issue. His message was simple: “Don’t over think it.” He basically stated that if what you are doing is for personal reasons, looking for food, parking, etc. then it is personal. If it is not personal, then it falls under hours of service. It does not matter if you are hooked to your trailer or not.

Apr 05, 2019 • Carriers

Celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation Week with loads of savings and giveaways [p]National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW) is this week! This year, the trucking industry will come together from September 9-15 to honor professional drivers nationwide. We want to thank you for all your hard work and commitment to your careers. Without you and your integral role as a truck driver, life would get tough fast for the rest of us. Many of the things we take for granted, including access to medical supplies, fuel, food and clean water, would all be gone in a matter of weeks without trucks and truck drivers. What you do matters, and we are so grateful for you.[/p] [p]As a professional driver, there are several rewards and freebies you can take advantage of as part of NTDAW. These include:[/p] <ul> <li><strong>[p]Denny’s</strong> - Participating Denny’s travel center locations will offer professional drivers scratch-off cards with various diner discounts and prizes through September 30. Drivers will also receive a 10 percent discount key tag that can be used until December 31, 2019. (<a href="https://www.truckersnews.com/dennys-to-show-appreciation-to-drivers-in-september/">https://www.truckersnews.com/dennys-to-show-appreciation-to-drivers-in-september/</a>)[/p]</li> <li><strong>[p]Pilot/Flying J</strong> - Throughout the month of September, Pilot Flying J stores will have money-saving offers and daily giveaways via the myPilot® app. Pilot Flying J Truck Care is also offering free mid-trip inspections, valued at $50, to help professional drivers and trucking companies prepare for Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s Brake Safety Week. The company is also handing out a combined 100 million myRewards® loyalty points to more than 60,000 drivers, including 2,000 daily winners. To enter, professional drivers can simply swipe their myRewards® loyalty card when purchasing diesel fuel at participating travel centers in the United States. Additional details can be found here: <a href="https://www.pilotflyingj.com/driver-appreciation/">https://www.pilotflyingj.com/driver-appreciation/</a>[/p]</li> <li><strong>[p]Love’s Travel Centers</strong> - Love’s is celebrating NTDAW all month long with many food, drink, and merchandise deals as well as the opportunity to win 10,000 My Love Reward points. One driver will win 1 million points. Use the following link for more details: <a href="https://www.truckersnews.com/loves-appreciates-trucker-drivers-throughout-september/">https://www.truckersnews.com/loves-appreciates-trucker-drivers-throughout-september/</a>[/p]</li> <li><strong>[p]AmBest Truck Stops</strong> - Specific AmBest members are hosting driver appreciation events. Check out the full list here to find one near you: <a href="https://am-best.com/News-Events/Driver-Appreciation-Days">https://am-best.com/News-Events/Driver-Appreciation-Days</a>[/p]</li> <li><strong>[p]Southern Recipe</strong> - Vote for your favorite truck driver chef recipe for a chance to with $2,000 here: <a href="http://southernrecipe.com/truckdriverappreciation/">http://southernrecipe.com/truckdriverappreciation/</a>[/p]</li> </ul> [p]Many carriers around the country are also hosting their own driver appreciation events this week. Be sure to check out their social media pages to find out the details. Know about a NTDAW event happening that you want to share with other drivers? Leave the details in a comment below.[/p] [p]Here’s to a great National Truck Driver Appreciation Week![p]

Sep 10, 2018 • Community