Nov 08, 2019 • Carriers

Industry Update - November 8, 2019

Industry Update - November 8, 2019

By Paul DeCoste

Did you Know?

Less than two weeks ago Mack unveiled their brand new, all-black, Mack Anthem truck. Debuted at the North American Commercial Vehicle in Atlanta on October 28^th, this new model catches eyes with an all-black bulldog hood ornament, a spacious interior and much more. Mack promoted the truck with the phrase “Back in the Black”, a good omen to the goal of making good money as a driver. Truck fan or not, this blacked out semi is a beast.

Trucking Tip of the Week

Its that time of the year, watch out for snowy and impassible roads. This driver was stuck on a two-lane roadway for three days before calling local police for help. Make sure your truck is prepped for icy roads and freezing conditions.

Trucker Path’s weather feature on the navigation app can help you out here as well!

Industry Update

Owner-operators in California are using this week and next to protest the new Assembly Bill 5 that has the potential to eliminate lots of owner-operator jobs in the state. Although there doesn’t seem to be any centralized leadership with the protests, there were 50 people protesting outside of the State Senator’s office on Monday.

The controversial AB 5 bill will require owner-operators to be classified as employees with a trucking company, rather than expand their own small businesses as a contractor. This bill is allowing exemptions for certain contractor jobs like freelance writers and graphic designers. Owner-operators are looking to obtain similar exemptions.

Laws and Regulations

The owner of several New Jersey trucking companies, Tito Viteri, was recently sentenced to two years in federal prison for a massive tax avoidance scheme. He is responsible for evading personal and corporate taxes for more than nine years. Tito owned eleven trucking companies which were collectively known as Viteri Trucking Companies.

In total, Tito evaded $2.3 million worth of taxes and is now paying the price for it.

Hours of Service Update

Regulators accepting comments on a petition to exempt small carriers from the upcoming ELD mandate. If you have any suggestions on how the FMCSA should approach the new ELD mandate, find more information and submit your response at this link:

https://www.joc.com/trucking-logistics/labor/challenge-eld-rule-resurfaces-fmcsa_20191105.html

TagsTruck truck drivers Owner Operator trucking FMCSA Trucker Path Trucking Industry truck stops Owner Operators Legislation Trucking Tips California transportation

Winter Driving Tips for Truckers [p]Winter is here bringing with it the end of yet another year. For truck drivers though, winter is no different than any other season. It is the same endless driving through city and country roads no matter the season. The only thing that changes is the way you drive because winter brings rain and snow resulting in wet and slippery roads throughout the country. You need to be extra careful and exercise patience as the odds are stacked against you when it comes to driving in winter. Accidents are not uncommon, with many truckers trying their best to meet delivery deadlines. In such perilous conditions, there are certain protocols to follow, including changing your driving style. Let's talk about what else you can do as a trucker to improve your chances of meeting deadlines this winter. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Focus on the Road [/b][/p] [p]If the road is slippery, you need to keep both your hands on the steering wheel and focus on the road. A slight shift in focus, and the next thing you know, your truck has lost control. You mustn't be distracted by anything, be it music, the radio, or anything else.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Reduce Speed [/b][/p] [p]Yes, you need to meet your delivery deadlines, and for that, you need to drive at a certain pace. But you know what they say, it is better to arrive late than never. Therefore, reduce your truck's speed, judge the road's condition, and increase speed only when it is safe to do so. If you drive slow, you can stop earlier and avoid getting into any accidents. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/TP-BLOG-Winter_Driving_Tips_for_Truckers-Reduce_Speed.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Avoid Sudden Maneuvers[/b][/p] [p]To protect yourself and others on the road, you should drive a bit smoothly. That means you should accelerate slowly, brake easy, and turn with caution. Do nothing that would decrease your truck's traction and cause you to lose control of your vehicle. It is good practice to keep more than a safe distance between you and the other vehicle in front of you so you can react at the right time. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Use Lights [/b][/p] [p]Your truck's headlights, taillights, and fog lights are your dearest friend in harsh weather conditions. Poor lighting is a recipe for disaster, therefore before you set out on the road, inspect your truck's lights. The important thing here is that while you should be able to see the cars in front of you, others should also be able to spot you from behind. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/TP-BLOG-Winter_Driving_Tips_for_Truckers-Use_Lights.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Signal in Advance[/b][/p] [p]Use your signals way before you intend to turn. As a general rule, wait for four to five blinks before gradually turning a corner or changing lanes. If you are driving slower than the traffic, we suggest you switch on your four-way hazard lights to let everyone else know that you are slow allowing them to make adjustments. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Watch the Other Truckers [/b][/p] [p]Veteran truckers are on the road for a reason. They have been trucking for so long that their experience counts for everything. As a beginner, you should learn from them. When big-rigs slow down or pull over, you should too. There is no reason to keep on going if everyone else has decided to call it a day. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/TP-BLOG-Winter_Driving_Tips_for_Truckers-Watch_Other_Truckers.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Check the News and Weather Apps[/b][/p] [p]It is better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to trucking. Therefore, before setting out on your journey, watch the news, check some weather apps, or talk to other truckers who have taken the route you are intending to take. Leave the safety of wherever you are only when you are sure that it is safe to drive. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Try for Traction [/b][/p] [p]When it comes to driving on slippery roads, traction is everything. You need good tires, expert driving skills, and some good luck to make it through winter. The only thing you have under your control among the three is tires. Buy snow tires with a deep tread and with several grooves to get good traction[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/TP-BLOG-Winter_Driving_Tips_for_Truckers-Try_for_Traction.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Final Thoughts[/b][/p] [p]If it were up to us, we would recommend not driving in winter, but that's for you to decide. Winter driving is dangerous, and no matter what you do, there is always a very high risk of getting into a sticky situation. However, if you do decide to weather through the storm in your truck, then avoid high-risk highways. [/p] [p]You want to avoid the state of Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New York during the winter, and all the highways going around and through these states. Let's not even talk about Alaska, as that is one place that is always a high risk regardless of the season. [/p] [p]With that said, we wish you a safe winter driving season! What are your winter driving tips? Share them in the comments below. [/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Dec 29, 2020 • Carriers

5 Most Common Mistakes for New Truck Drivers <h2></h2> <h3></h3> Many truckers try to get into the business every year and end up racking up violations and unnecessary expenses due to Rookie Mistakes. Dave of Smart Trucking shares some rookie mistakes for all the rookies entering the trucking world. <h2></h2> Here are the 5 of the most common mistakes new truck drivers make: <h2></h2> <strong>1. Misjudging a corner:</strong> You may be swinging too wide or not swinging wide enough. Always check your spacing and clearances. <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/06/b30-1.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/06/b30-1-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5043" /></a> <h2></h2> <strong>2. Not getting clear directions to a delivery or pick up:</strong> Ensure good directions to avoid getting lost or in an awkward spot where it's impossible to get turned around. Plan your trips using a trip planner (check out <a href="http://vip.truckerpath.com/gold-member?utm_source=email&utm_medium=nurture-interest">Trucker Path</a> while you're at it). <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/06/b31-1.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/06/b31-1-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5044" /></a> <h2></h2> <strong>3. Lack of focus when backing up:</strong> This is one of the greatest challenges as a professional truck driver. Get out of the vehicle and survey the vicinity first. Check for obstructions and clearance. Do it slowly and safely and always focus on your driver aids (side mirrors, cameras, etc). <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/06/b32.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/06/b32-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5045" /></a> <h2></h2> <strong>4. Hurrying:</strong> Hurry for no one. Hurrying leads to mistakes. Mistakes as a professional truck driver can be fatal. Take all the time you need to get it right EVERY TIME. <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/06/b33.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/06/b33-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5046" /></a> <h2></h2> <strong>5. Complacency:</strong> Experienced truck drivers as well as the new truck drivers can be guilty of being complacent and overconfident. Be thorough and 100% focused at all times and never ever take something for granted. Complacency can get any driver into serious trouble. <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/06/b34.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/06/b34-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5047" /></a> <h2></h2> There are many more tips out there but in general it all leads to focus, and safety. Got some tips to share? Let us know down the comments section. <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3>

Jun 16, 2020 • Carriers

10 Safety Tips for Hitting the Road this Winter <span style="font-weight: 400;">Navigating the road during winter can be difficult even for expert truckers. During this season, truckers have to put up with icy roads, poor visibility, and reduced traction while driving a big rig. However, implementing preventive safety precautions can help you sail smoothly throughout winter without any major problems.</span> <h3></h3> <h3><b><i>Vehicle Inspection</i></b></h3> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Before anything else, you need to ensure that your truck is in the best shape to survive the tough conditions of the winter season. See your tire pressure, antifreeze levels, and engine oil before your trip. If you have the time and the means, have a mechanic inspect your vehicle. This will help ensure that your vehicle can withstand the harsh conditions during winter.</span> <h3></h3> <h3><b><i>Watch Your Speed</i></b></h3> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Accidents during the winter season mostly happen due to overspeeding. Driving through an icy road can result in poor traction. This is why it’s wise to compensate by reducing your speed. Going easy on your accelerator also gives you a longer reaction time should things go south. </span> <h3></h3> <h3><b><i>Allot Extra Space</i></b></h3> <span style="font-weight: 400;">While driving on wet roads, stopping distance is usually twice more than normal. However, stopping distance increases to 10 times more than usual on icy roads. This is why you have to leave lots of room between your truck and the vehicle in front of you. Doing this will keep you out of harm’s way during accidents.</span> <h3></h3> <h3><b><i>Be Smooth</i></b></h3> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Don’t do any sudden movements on icy roads. Refrain from sudden brakes, acceleration, etc. Should you find yourself in a sticky situation, lightly pump your brakes. Be sure to keep your speed consistent. Avoid doing anything that will reduce your traction on a slippery, icy road.</span> <h3></h3> <h3><b><i>Pay Attention to Tire Spray</i></b></h3> <span style="font-weight: 400;">One quick way to assess the road’s condition is to observe the water coming off the tires of surrounding vehicles. More water indicates wetter roads. Meanwhile, less tire spray indicates icy roads. This should prompt you to exercise more caution while driving. </span> <h3></h3> <h3><b><i>Light the Way</i></b></h3> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Visibility can decrease relatively due to poor weather conditions. Don’t forget to turn your headlights on while driving. This allows other drivers to keep a safe distance from your truck. </span> <h3></h3> <h3><b><i>Be Evasive</i></b></h3> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Be evasive on snow-covered roads. This is relatively better instead of sudden and hard braking. Decelerate your truck slightly and carefully maneuver through obstacles to avoid collisions.</span> <h3></h3> <h3><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span><b><i>Avoid Extreme Conditions</i></b></h3> <span style="font-weight: 400;">If the weather seems too severe, pull over. There’s no point in risking a drive during extreme weather conditions. Your safety should always come first. If the weather gets too extreme, find a safe way to get off the road and wait until it’s safe enough to drive. </span> <h3></h3> <h3><b><i>Prepare Yourself</i></b></h3> <span style="font-weight: 400;">After you’ve ensured that your vehicle is ready for winter, it’s time to prep for the cold weather. Be sure to carry warm clothes and thick blankets. It won’t hurt to bring miscellaneous items like a flashlight, shovel, matches, traction devices, etc. You would never know when these things may come in handy. It’s also to make sure you have roadside assistance for trucks should you encounter trouble on the road.</span> <h3></h3> <h3></h3> <span style="font-weight: 400;">During a whiteout blizzard, visibility is compromised. This will make it difficult to see traffic lights and road signs. Stay safe by looking twice before proceeding on intersections or one-way streets.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Truckers are constantly being tested on the road. As winter begins, it brings with it obstacles that make driving challenging. During this season, it’s important to exercise caution while driving. These tips can help prevent accidents and mishaps from happening during the drive.</span>

Nov 26, 2019 • Carriers