Jun 18, 2020 • Carriers

Trucker Path App Update Version 4.1.2: Satellite Views, Improved search, and Major Bug Fixes

Trucker Path App Update Version 4.1.2: Satellite Views, Improved search, and Major Bug Fixes

Good morning Trucker Path users! We’re excited to rollout the latest version 4.1.2 of Trucker Path in the App Stores (Play Store and Apple). We’ve added new features requested by our users and fixed longstanding bugs.

1. Added Satellite Views

Tapping into the detailed page of a Place will show a satellite screenshot of that location. This way, you can get a better sense of the parking and layout.

2. Improved Places Search Capability

The search bar will now support searching for the business’ name, as well as their address.

3. Bug Fixes

A few users reported the mile distance from location isn’t displaying correctly. Rest assured this is now completely fixed.

Some users are also reported seeing “no internet connection” despite being connected to the internet. This is a known bug where we’ve implemented some solutions in this patch. Fingers crossed it will be resolved for those affected.

Hope you guys enjoy these. More feature updates in the pipeline for the next release cycle! If you have any suggestions please let our team know at community@truckerpath.com, we’re actively looking for user suggestions!

By The Trucker Path Team

TagsTruck Driver Owner Operator Trucker Path Trucking Industry Owner Operators Industry Update Technology Trucking Tips transportation

Truck Sanitation Tips <h2></h2> During the last few months, the COVID-19 pandemic has begun to have an effect on everyone in the world. While truckers continue to deliver the vital needs of the country, there is continued risk in accumulating and spreading the virus in doing so. There is a lot that we can do to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Since truck drivers spend more time inside their trucks, it is important to make sure that it is a clean environment for you and for anyone who rides in it. In this article, we have put together a list of tips on how to clean and disinfect your truck. <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst2.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst2-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5233" /></a> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>1. Choosing Your Cleaning Materials</strong></h3> The first step to cleaning and disinfecting your truck is to choose the right cleaning agents and materials you will use. Isopropyl alcohol is a proven disinfectant, and is also safe to use on most truck interior surfaces. In fact, it is used in many production plants to put a final touch on interior components before they are shipped out. Isopropyl alcohol will remove many stains, smudges and residues, as well as kill bacteria and viruses. However, that stain removing quality can also cause problems with leather. <h2></h2> For leather components such as steering wheels, seating, and trim, a combination of soap and water is a safe and sufficient way to clean them. Avoid hard scrubbing when cleaning your leather interior, and avoid excess suds and water. Hand washing has been recommended as a primary way to protect oneself against infection by COVID-19, this holds true for washing your leather interior as well. <h2></h2> Another cleaning agent is chlorine dioxide (ClO2). It is a common disinfectant and odor eliminator, already prevalent in many shops. It is available in the form of tablets, and depending on the amount of water added, can be used in a vapor or liquid form. <h2></h2> It is recommended to use microfiber towels as cleaning material as it lessens the damage on any surface. Wash the towels thoroughly after each cleaning session. <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst3.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst3-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5234" /></a> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>2. Cleaning & Disinfecting Truck Interiors</strong></h3> While truck interiors are built to be tough, hard scrubbing or using a rough cloth can cause scratches or even discoloration. A wipe with alcohol on hard surfaces and gentle circular cleaning on upholstery are the best bets for both cleaning and maintaining your truck interior. <h2></h2> It is also very important not to use too much water on your seats. If cloth upholstery soaks through with water, it can get into the cushion beneath. This can cause the growth of mold and that musty smell you will recognize if you've left your windows open in the rain. <h2></h2> If washing the seats of your truck, it is best to wet a cloth or sponge with soap and water and wipe the seats. You do not want to leave excess soap or water, as it can take a long time to dry. Isopropyl alcohol can safely be used on non-leather seats. <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst4.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst4-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5235" /></a> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>3. Cleaning & Disinfecting Truck Exteriors</strong></h3> Truck exteriors should not be left behind. Wash you trucks regularly at truckstops. Pay attention to the parts which have frequent contact with your hands and shoes such as step boards and exterior door handles. You may clean these areas with soap. <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst5.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst5-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5236" /></a> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>4. Keeping Clean While on the Road</strong></h3> While you're out, you're exposed to germs and viruses that can follow you back into your truck. If you don't have enough time to do a thorough truck clean, keep in mind of the common contact points such as door handles and controls, keys or start button, steering wheel, gear shift, seats, CB radio, all buttons and knobs on your dash, sun visor, anything touchscreen, the console and cup holders. <h2></h2> You can use disinfectant wipes on most surfaces. Wipe your mobile phones while you're at it too. <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3>

Jul 29, 2020 • Carriers

Trucker Spotlight - Kristy Mathews <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/tp-sp-blog-kristy-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Kristy Mathews</strong>, who's one of the three recently crowned Queens of the Road by <a href="http://www.realwomenintrucking.com/">Real Women In Trucking</a>. She's a 36yr-old, born and raised Minnesotan trucking influencer, who isn't scared to take on any job. Big or small she's done it all. Let's get to know more about Kristy and how it's like to be Queen of the road. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> I always had a fascination with the big trucks and machinery we used in the family companies. From the 1st time I got to ride in the truck, I knew that's what i wanted to. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What were some challenges that you faced when you started out trucking? </strong></h3> When I first started driving, I definitely was looked at like I couldn't do it. I was an 18yr old 90lb woman fresh out of high school, but I showed them I had what it would take. I've been looked at as an underdog and its a daily reminder of all the things I was told I couldn't do and I've prevailed through thick and thin. This is my dream and I'll do whatever it takes to succeed. Especially if it's empowering more women to do something they thought they could never do. Positive vibes and strides to the ultimate goal. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>In the years that you've been driving, what are the significant changes that you've noticed in the trucking industry?</strong></h3> Biggest noticeable changes I've noticed in the industry is lack of common sense and respect for others. We are all in this together like a family once upon a time and now it's all about your 15 seconds of fame on bashing others. I hate what its come to and I always try to instill that brotherhood/sisterhood as much as possible. We need that back, we need to have each other's back. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> I don't have times of loneliness because I'm an introvert. I love the isolation in my truck and all the time to myself. That's also how I think of my next big move in life. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your trucking pet peeves</strong></h3> I have a lot of trucking peeves but I would like to think of the positives and not get set back by something I can't change. <h2></h2> <h3><strong> Being Queen of the Road, how would you want to change or improve on the current situation of the trucking industry?</strong></h3> If I could change or improve current situations in the industry, it would have to be getting our voices heard across the board from big things like rules regulations and HOS, to increasing truck parking so drivers can have a restful sleep and safe havens. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-5.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What keeps you busy nowadays? How did the current Covid-19 situation affect your trucking life?</strong></h3> Work keeps me plenty busy. I work hard so I can play harder. I love taking vacations. It is something I never grew up doing with my family so now I'm living my best life. Covid-19 hasn't really affected me all that much. I've been to every hot spot delivering medical supplies. If anything, it was humbling in the beginning knowing I'm doing something to help and these loads were needed, but it's honestly no different than any other day. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your future career plans? Would you continue to be a trucker? Any plans on being an instructor?</strong></h3> Looking into my future, it's my goal to get my non-profit initiative started. Breast cancer screening is a big deal (has deep meaning to me) and I want to be able to help females in the trucking industry get the screenings they need more conveniently, more affordable options for preventative care, mastectomies, and down time since we all know if the wheels aren't turning you ain't earning. Also part of it, I'd like to help females wanting to come into the industry with grants to get them schooling they need to succeed, and graduating high school students scholarships to anyone wanting to go into the medical field. I have some big dreams and goals I plan to achieve. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Favorite truck model?</strong></h3> I'd love to own, restore, and drive a 1957 Mack B61 twin stick. If i had time and a lot of extra money, that would be my dream right there. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your must haves or the things that you bring with you when on the road?</strong></h3> My best must haves are an atlas, <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">Trucker Path app</a>, and my phone. I like to keep it simple. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-4.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring women truckers?</strong></h3> Women wanting to delve into this industry should not come in with an "I am woman hear me roar" BS attitude. We are all in this together, doing this together. The best way to succeed is to be humble, strong, thick skinned, and help others asking for help. <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <em>Got a cool story to share? Send us message at community@truckerpath.com to be featured!</em> <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3>

Sep 04, 2020 • Carriers

Industry Update - May 19, 2020 <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3> <img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/05/b1.jpeg" alt="Truck Stops" /> <h3><strong>Truck Stops to Remain Open</strong></h3> As the nation endures the Covid-19 pandemic, <a href="https://www.ttnews.com/articles/truck-stops-remain-open-pandemic-despite-hit-bottom-line">truck stops have been working to ensure that drivers have a helping hand</a>. Some truck stops like Iowa 80 have enforced measures to limit the Covid-19 spread while keeping the showers and restrooms open. Loves installed plexiglass at all its stores, restaurants, and truck registers. Petro has remained open and has packaged their convenience store foods in a way that prioritizes customer safety. <h2></h2> <img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/05/b2.jpeg" alt="FMCSA" /> <h3><strong>FMCSA HOS Rule Updates</strong></h3> The <a href="https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/hours-service/hours-service-drivers-final-rule">Final Rule</a> features four key changes to existing Hours of Service requirements. <ul> <li>The Agency will increase safety and flexibility for the 30-minute break rule by requiring a break after 8 hours of consecutive driving and allowing the break to be satisfied by a driver using on-duty, not driving status, rather than off-duty status.</li> <li>The Agency will modify the sleeper-berth exception to allow drivers to split their required 10 hours off duty into two periods: an 8/2 split, or a 7/3 split—with neither period counting against the driver’s 14‑hour driving window.</li> <li>The Agency will modify the adverse driving conditions exception by extending by two hours the maximum window during which driving is permitted.</li> <li>The Agency will change the short-haul exception available to certain commercial drivers by lengthening the drivers’ maximum on‑duty period from 12 to 14 hours and extending the distance limit within which the driver may operate from 100 air miles to 150 air miles.</li> </ul> <h3></h3> <img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/05/b3.jpeg" alt="Jobs" /> <h3><strong>More than 80,000 Jobs Lost Last April</strong></h3> According to the<a href="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.t17.htm"> Bureau of Labor Statistics</a>, 88,300 jobs were lost in the trucking industry, a 6.2% year-over-year decline, as the entire economy continues to suffer due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is estimated that around 60% of the jobs mentioned are drivers.

May 19, 2020 • Carriers