Spring Driving Tips for Truckers
[p]Spring is here and we are getting ready to welcome summer. Soon temperatures are going to soar, and rain will make its entry into the equation.[/p]
[p]As a trucker, it's both good and bad news for you. Good because you don't have to fight against snow or subzero temperatures anymore and bad because now rain, landslides, and other hazards will introduce themselves. Therefore, you must still be attentive when you drive your truck while also enjoying the scenic views the American highways have to offer. Let’s take a look at some of the challenges you might face driving in spring as a trucker.
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[p][b]Tackling Rain[/b][/p]
[p]At the start of spring and early summer, the weather begins to change, and with that comes rain and slippery roads. It shouldn't be too much of an issue driving in the rain because you are fresh off the winter season, and you must have tackled snowy roads during that period. However, you should exercise caution since roads become very slippery during the first few minutes of rain. You should slow down and maintain a safe distance from other trucks and vehicles on the road. If conditions are too treacherous and visibility is an issue, it is better to bide at a truck stop and wait for the storm to pass.[/p]
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[p][b]Construction Season[/b][/p]
[p]The start of spring signals the beginning of the construction season, especially in the Midwest. If you
pass through a construction site, make sure to pay attention to all the road signs. You should slow down and change lanes with more care to avoid any accidents. If you practice caution, you will save others and yourself from unnecessary harm.[/p]
[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202104-TP-BLOG-SpringTips-2.jpg" alt=""]
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[p][b]Sun Glare[/b][/p]
[p]The sun shines bright during the spring and summer seasons. It also means that you have more hours of daylight to tackle. Therefore, keep a pair of sunglasses by your side to protect your eyes from damage - not to mention look cool as well. Furthermore, keep the truck's windshield clean, especially since bugs will also be aplenty during this time.[/p]
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[p][b]Scenic Highways to Try This Season[/b][/p]
[p]Driving during spring season has some advantages too. You can also enjoy your time driving on scenic routes. Imagine getting paid to drive some of the most beautiful roads in America! Not everyone has that pleasure, so you must make the most out of it when you can.[/p]
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[p][b]Route 12, Utah[/b][/p]
[p]The red rocks of Utah are a treat to watch, especially in early spring. The route presents exquisite views as you drive through the Canyons and wind down the challenging roads.[/p]
[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202104-TP-BLOG-SpringTips-Cover-Route12Utah.jpg" alt=""]
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[p][b]Trail Ridge Road, Colorado[/b][/p]
[p]It is extra fun to drive in high altitudes, especially in spring. The Trail Ridge Road is the country's highest continually paved road that follows through the Rocky Mountain National Park. You will get to see several wildlife species during your drive and witness outstanding scenery at every corner and straight.[/p]
[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202104-TP-BLOG-SpringTips-Cover-TrailRidgeRoad.jpg" alt=""]
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[p][b]Final Thoughts [/b][/p]
[p]The spring season is a good time for truckers as you can bask in the sun, enjoy scenic views, and make some good money while doing it. However, remember to take extra care and not be complacent while you are having fun. Do you have some awesome spring destinations? Share it with us.
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[p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]
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. 
