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

Trucker Spotlight - BDSmith <em>The Trucker Spotlight series explores the lives of truckers and their journey to make a difference in their industry. We interview different truck drivers to understand some life lessons that make them who they are today. We also learn more about their motivations, and the problems that they encounter on the job. We also tackle how Trucker Path's solutions helped them with what they do. The information that they provide helps inform other people who are looking to delve into the trucking world.</em> <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/ts-bdsmith-blog-5.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>BDSmith</strong>, who's been driving for around 2 years now. He's a Youtuber / Artist who enjoys driving with his dogs. Let's get to know the interesting story about how he got into trucking. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> It kind of was a random choice. I had just gotten back from South Korea where I did 2 years military service and 5 years just living there. I worked as a programmer for a tech company in Gangnam and was able to do the job online when I got back to the states but didn’t like trying to have meetings with the difference in hours. I always loved to drive ever since I was a kid so I figured, “Hey, why not?”. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>In the years that you have been driving, what are the significant changes that you've noticed in the trucking industry?</strong></h3> As I’ve only been in for roughly 2.5 years I haven’t noticed too much change other than it seems like there’s less people on the CB than when I started. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/ts-bdsmith-blog-1.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What made you decide to put up your Youtube channel?</strong></h3> So the channel started back in 2015 as a gaming channel. Mainly something to do with my two boys after work. Now that I’m driving a truck and don’t have time for games, I turned it fully into a trucking vlog late 2018. I try to do stupid things to make people laugh etc. I never take myself too seriously unless it’s job related. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> I don’t really ever get lonely. I’ve had a dog since my 2nd month of driving and now have two. They help a lot. Always doing stupid things which make me laugh. I video call my boys who still live in Korea with their mom. That’s the only hard part, being away from them. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/ts-bdsmith-blog-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>As a trucker, what are the current struggles in this COVID19 pandemic?</strong></h3> Remembering that people would prefer it if I wear a mask. I haven’t seen anything truck related - my rates went down a small bit for about a week in late March but it didn’t last. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your usual routes? Favorite scenic truck route?</strong></h3> I like to go anywhere. I love going into Texas because the people always treat me well and I have a lot of fans there so I do occasional meet ups. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/ts-bdsmith-blog-3.jpg" alt=""] <h3><strong>What was your weirdest or most unusual haul?</strong></h3> Not sure I’ve had anything too bad. I picked up a recycled paper load once coming out of Arizona going to Cali. The place smelled so bad I almost threw up, other than that nothing too unusual. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>How often do you use rest stops / truck stops? What are the things that you look for in a truck stop? Favorite truck stop meal?</strong></h3> For the longest time I only went to P/FJ because their spicy chicken is absolutely amazing. When it comes to sleeping I really try to stay away from the big truck stops. I prefer the mom and pop places. Seems the more experienced people go there so I don’t have to worry as much about my truck being hit. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/ts-bdsmith-blog-4.jpg" alt=""] <h3><strong>What are the common troubles or problems you encounter while trucking?</strong></h3> The biggest problem is four wheelers not paying attention. It really shocked me when I started driving just how many terrible drivers are out there. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your pet peeves while driving/trucking?</strong></h3> People that don’t move over for disabled vehicles on the shoulders and people that speed up when you go to pass them after driving slow for the last 20 miles. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>We're glad that you use the Trucker Path app on your day to day trucking. What features do you enjoy the most?</strong></h3> Hands down it’s the truck stop finder. There’s so many on <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">Trucker Path</a> that aren’t on my Garmin. And that 1) has saved me a few times with HOS and 2) I’ve found some great small restaurants that way. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?</strong></h3> Keep in mind it’s not a job. It’s not a career. It’s a lifestyle. Some make big money. Some never do. Just because you see a big number doesn’t mean it’s a big number. Always remember a lot of it will go into taxes and upkeep of the truck. Remember you will be away from home for long periods. Can you handle that? And above all, be respectful to those whom came before you in this industry. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Where can people watch your videos on Youtube?</strong></h3> They can view my videos on my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBCDA74N9mp7WXMDUQSHCjg">Youtube Channel, BDSmith Trucking</a>. <h2></h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vGZAUdtyjow" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> <h2></h2> Hope you guys enjoy! <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3>

Oct 02, 2020 • Carriers

Industry Update - May 17, 2019 <h5>By Jeremy Feucht</h5> <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Did you Know?</u></strong></h3> We are just under 7 months away from the final deadline of the ELD mandate. The grandfather clause that allowed drivers to continue to use their AOBRDs will expire on December 16, 2019. <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Trucking tip of the Week</u></strong></h3> We are seeing record amounts of rainfall across the US. While stopping a big rig is difficult enough on dry roads, add in wet pavement after a hot spell, and vehicles with the best tires and breaks can have trouble stopping. <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Autonomous Vehicles</u></strong></h3> More trouble for the autonomous vehicle industry as a <a href="http://fortune.com/2019/05/16/latest-fatal-tesla-crash-involves-autopilot/">Tesla was involved in another fatal accident</a>. The investigation results have become available in the fatal wreck and it has been determined that the autopilot was engaged but did not detect a semi. On March 1, a Tesla collided with the semi at about 68 mph while crossing a highway in Delray Beach, FL killing the driver of the Tesla. Events like this will further delay autonomous trucks from entering the industry. <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Tariffs </u></strong></h3> Tariffs have been a common theme recently, but we may see a change to that. The <a href="https://menafn.com/1098536915/Trucking-Cheers-US-Agreement-with-Mexico-Canada-to-Lift-Tariffs">US has agreed to lift tariffs</a> on Mexico and Canada in regard to steel and aluminum that is manufactured in those countries. Further helping the trucking industry is that the agreement also includes the removal of retaliatory tariffs placed on US goods by Mexico and Canada. The removal of these tariffs should help reduce the costs to consumers and increase margins for the manufacturers which in turn should help stabilize or even increase rates paid to drivers. <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>FMCSA Seeking Comments</u></strong></h3> Last year, the FMCSA requested comments for a pilot program allowing those 18-20 years old with military experience to drive interstate. This week, the FMCSA is now requesting comments from anyone who would like to have their voice heard on allowing those 18-20 years old and without military experience to drive interstate. Currently those 18-20 can drive big rigs commercially, they just can only drive intrastate. If you would like to read the request by the FMCSA and comment, you can do so <a href="https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=FMCSA-2018-0346-0001">here</a>. Comments must be received by July 15, 2019.

May 17, 2019 • 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