unitedtransport

Driver Wellness Tips

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 16:54:02 GMT

10 tips for driver wellness

Wellness Tips for Drivers:

It is never too late to start on your wellness/fitness journey to improve your health! No matter what your goals are - being able to walk a mile or running a marathon - everyone has to start someplace!

Here are some tips to help you get started on your journey -

1. Start with small steps

>Whether it is drinking more water or moving more - you need to start small! Maybe for the first week you walk 3,500 steps each day. Then the following week you increase your step count. Building up to 10,000 (or more) steps a day will not seem like such a big task if you build slowly.

2. Pick one thing to focus on

>You cannot fix everything all at once! Maybe you work on increasing your steps. Then when that has become a habit for you, then you can move on to the next thing.

3. Make a list

>List the things that could potentially get in your way to meet your goals. Then jot down ways to overcome those obstacles - then you already have a game plan in place when the obstacles appear!

4. Get an accountability partner

>Find someone to hold you accountable to your goals - this makes it harder to not follow through with your goals - because you know someone will be asking you about it. There will be times when things happen and you don't meet your goal for that day or week. But get right back at it - proving that you CAN do it.

5. Stop making it a separate part of your life

>Wellness is a part of your life that affects all parts of your life! Don't make it something that you have to 'fit in'. It should help you to feel better just by doing it.

6. Self-observe

>Pay attention to the things that make you lose sight of your goals. If you know that certain items will trigger you to not meet your goal, stop and think about why it should stop you. Show yourself some grace as you work on your new self and goals!

7. Why?

>Finding 'why' you want to start on your wellness journey can help you stick with it for the long haul. Is it - to feel better about you? be there to see your kids graduate? be able to help with grandkids? Whatever your 'Why' is - keep that in the front of your mind when things get hard.

8. Don't let your emotions lead you

>Some situations can be emotional - don't let the emotions take over and control your progress. Take a few deep breaths and focus on your goal and how your emotions are trying to pull you in a different direction.

9. Find your people

>Find a group of people who are supporting you along the way. Lean on them when you need help and share your successes with them. We are made for community and this can be a huge help on your journey.

10. It is NEVER too late

>Every day is a new beginning. Take that extra lap today, drink the extra bottle of water, complete one more set of stretches - these little things will all add up to a healthier you. Keep moving forward - even when you have a bad day, get up the next day and start again. In the end your body, family and friends will be glad you did.

Winter Wellness

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 19:57:57 GMT

Winter Wellness

The winter months are well known for a couple of things - cold weather and illnesses. Influenza, colds, COVID-19 and RSV are the most common ailments, but other illnesses can happen as well. Influenza usually spikes between December and February. There are flu vaccines available, the vaccine helps your body fight off the virus more effectively. Colds are most common during the winter months as well. COVID-19 and RSV both have vaccines available if you want to get one. Viruses transmit most effectively during the winter months due to the cold, dry air which leads to more people getting sick during the winter.

Some tips for helping yourself to stay healthy this winter:

-Make sure you are drinking enough water!

-Eating healthy foods

-Getting plenty of sleep

-Get some exercise - even 20 minutes of walking is a boost for your system.

-If you cough or sneeze, please cover your mouth, use the crook of your arm or use a tissue

-Wash your hands often

-Avoid touching items that everyone touches (door handles, fuel nozzles, pin pads)

-Sanitize frequently used items

Tips for Avoiding Spoilage or Rejected Loads

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 19:33:39 GMT

When hauling refrigerated (reefer) loads - the potential for a rejected load due to spoilage or other issues - is a real possibility on each load. There are items that drivers can check before they get loaded and leave the shipper that can reduce the chances of a spoiled or rejected load. These small items can save lots of time and money and avoid a cargo claim.

Before the load is put onto the trailer check the following items:

>is the reefer unit operating correctly?

>are the fuel, oil & coolant at the appropriate level?

>has the trailer been adequately pre-cooled?

>is the reefer set according to the bills?

>inspect the trailer itself to ensure the doors close properly and there are no holes or leaks in the trailer

Daily tasks:

>doing your daily walk around/inspection and reporting any issues to the shop/mechanic

>checking the temperature on the bills matches what the trailer is set to

>check the information received from dispatch matches the bills (trailer number, receiver's address, temperature, seal numbers)

By getting in a routine and consistently performing these tasks, any potential issues will be easier to notice and prevent any potential delays, issues and insurance claims.

Summer Driving Hazards

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 14:34:28 GMT

All seasons have driving hazards, and summer is no exception. There are some different and unique challenges that come with summer driving including - extra people out and about, additional traffic, weather and road construction to name a few.

Summer is the season where numerous outdoor activities take place - therefore there are more pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcycles out on and near roadways. Whether in an urban setting or a rural setting - walkers, runners and bicyclists will be out in high numbers enjoying summer activities. This is a time when commercial motor vehicle drivers must pay close attention to those that are sharing the road and areas around the road with them. If a driver is new to the area they are in, they should ensure their GPS is reading the directions out loud, then the driver doesn't have to look at the screen in order to get their directions and can focus on the road.

Extra cars are also out during the summer on the road as they travel for vacation. There may also be farm equipment and motorcycles sharing the road. Drivers should constantly check their mirrors, create a large space around the truck, stay in one lane as much as possible, avoid quick lane changes and slow down even more in heavy traffic to maintain proper following distance.

The summer months also bring about quickly changing weather and hot temperatures. Drivers should ensure that they are monitoring the weather where they are in order to avoid or safely shelter in place should the need arise. If the area where the driver is located is experiencing excessive heat they should ensure that they are taking care of themselves and their equipment. Drivers should ensure they are not over exerting themselves and that they are drinking plenty of water! They should be checking over their equipment, especially the tires and reefer unit. If they are hauling a reefer load they should be checking that the reefer is keeping the proper temperature and that it is running properly.

Road construction - while it is always happening - there are even more projects during the summer months. If a driver is in a location with many road projects they may want to check alternate routes. If an alternate route is not available the driver should ensure they give themselves extra time to make the delivery and that they are following all of the directions in the work zones and leaving a large cushion around their vehicle for safety.

These are four of the main summer driving hazards - before heading out on any trip during the summer, take a couple of moments and think through these things. Drive safely!

Top 10 Violations of 2022

Wed, 10 May 2023 17:10:43 GMT

Each year the top 10 equipment inspection violations are published. In reviewing the Top 10 from 2022 - it appears that the majority of the violations could have been caught during the pre-trip inspection.

More states are installing tire pressure monitors that are actually in the road - which alerts the weigh station if either the tractor or trailer has a tire with low air pressure. Once you are pulled in, the officers can now take a closer look at your truck - which could lead to additional violations being discovered.

These violations not only affect the company's safety rating - but they also affect your individual safety rating.

The Top 10 Vehicle Violations in 2022 were as follows:

1. Tire was flat or had an audible air leak

2. Brakes were out of adjustment

3. Inoperable turn signals

4. No or improper breakaway or emergency braking

5. Tire was flat or the fabric was exposed

6. Inoperative brake lamps

7. Inoperable required lamps

8. Inoperable, repair or maintenance violation

9. Brake tubing and hose inadequacy

10. Axle positioning parts are defective/missing

FMCSA Violations

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 17:21:48 GMT

FMCSA Violations

All trucking companies must comply with FMCSA regulations. These regulations fall into six categories: unsafe driving, hours-of-service, controlled substances & alcohol, vehicle maintenance, driver fitness and hazardous materials. These are all areas that trucking companies are continually monitoring.

When FMCSA does an audit they are reviewing for many items and they often split them into categories of acute and critical. An acute regulation is a serious violation and a single non-compliance with this acute regulation is severe and requires immediate corrective actions by the company. A critical regulation is considered a non-compliant action that relates to a company's violation pattern. Many times this is recognized when the same violation is regularly on a company's FMCSA score.

In 2020 the top five Acute violations:

>allowing a driver to operate with a suspended or revoked license

>not having a drug and/or alcohol testing program in place

>not having a random drug and/or alcohol program in place

>allowing a driver with multiple licences to drive a CMV

>failing to complete the random drug/alcohol testing list

In 2020 the top five Critical violations:

>not using the appropriate method to record a driver's hours of service

>false report of a driver's record of duty status

>inquiries into past employers are not kept in the driver's qualification file

>operating a CMV not periodically inspected

>allowing a new driver to begin driving before the pre-employment drug screen result is received

Obviously, the acute violations are items that once they are reported the FMCSA will investigate immediately. The critical violations are a pattern of behavior for companies and if that pattern is not changed quickly the FMCSA can find cause to audit the company.

There are ways to ensure that your company is responding appropriately to inspections when these violations are discovered and reported. The main avenue is to ensure that drivers are doing their pre and post-trip inspections and that they are reporting items that need to be fixed and are having items fixed right away. Communication among drivers, dispatch and maintenance are critical to keeping the fleet running in an efficient manner.

Getting Proper Sleep

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 17:06:22 GMT

Tips for Better Sleep

Sleep is important for all of us - and with all of the distractions that are out there it is easy to not get enough sleep! For professional drivers it is extremely important that they get enough sleep in order to stay alert and focus on their job - driving!

Below are some tips that can help make sure you get the right amount of sleep.

1. Get the amount of sleep that YOU need!

Some drivers need 6 hours, others need 9. Whichever category you fall into - make sure that you are getting the amount of sleep that your body requires.

2. Try to go to sleep and get up around the same time each day.

Consistent bedtime and wake-up time are important. It helps to keep the body functioning properly and keeps you healthy. When your sleep pattern is inconsistent it can lead to health problems. This same rule goes for meal times - try to eat at the same time each day!

3. Get ready for sleep.

Even if your regular routine is off - by having the same routine before you go to sleep can trick your body into thinking it is time for sleep, even if it isn't the 'regular' time. Have a routine - such as turning off electronics, making sure the sleep area is dark, and reading a book/magazine rather than watching TV.

4. Get active!

Exercise is so important for numerous reasons - but it does help you to get better sleep at night. Try a brisk walk or some resistance bands before bed. This can help you sleep better and may relieve some of the day's stress.

5. Naps...

In order to fight drowsiness or tiredness some people turn to the 20-25 minute cat-naps. This type of nap can help to combat sleepiness during the day. If this is not something that you are used to - it might take a bit to get it to work for you. Try it during a reset or while you are off to see if it works for you.

6. If you need help - ask!

Sleep sometimes seems silly to talk about with your doctor - but if you are having troubles with sleep you should be talking to your doctor. They can help with ideas to get you to sleep better or they can recommend a doctor who specializes in sleep patterns/behaviors.

Sleep is very important for all of us - it is important that as professional drivers you are getting the appropriate amount of sleep and staying alert at all times while driving.

Accidents - Actions in the Aftermath (Part 4 of 4)

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 13:10:22 GMT

Accidents - Actions in the Aftermath (Part 4 of 4)

Unfortunately, accidents occur and when they do there are many different steps and actions that begin. The last part is the settlement phase and has three steps.

STEP ONE: The office personnel will be managing the medical, property, cargo and liability claims that are on-going in accident cases. This may involve more than one person, as office personnel may be responsible for different areas of the claim. This may take meetings, calls or other meetings to ensure that everyone has the proper information and are communicating with the insurance company(ies).

STEP TWO: If the legal team is needed, the office will be prepared to work with legal to ensure that any issues are handled in a timely manner and all information is handed over.

STEP THREE: Ensuring that the driver and equipment are prepared to head back to work. The driver may be able to go back to the tractor they were previously driving, otherwise they will need to move into a new truck (when available). There may be additional training that the driver needs to feel comfortable driving or may need to learn the technology in a different truck if they are not getting back into their previous equipment.

The settlement phase is the last one that happens and most times is mainly for the office personnel to handle, the driver is not as involved in this section of the accident aftermath. Hopefully, accidents are few or non-existent which will make the business and driving as safe as possible.

Accidents - Actions in the Aftermath (Part 3 of 4)

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 14:43:38 GMT

Accidents - Actions in the Aftermath (Part 3 of 4)

Unfortunately, accidents occur and when they do there are many different steps and actions that begin. The third part is called the business disruption phase and consists of four steps.

STEP ONE: Repairing the tractor/trailer. This step can be very time consuming depending on if the equipment is able to be moved or not directly after the accident. Then oftentimes multiple estimates are needed before the equipment can be repaired. Finally - the repairing itself can be time consuming depending on supply chain and the extent of the needed repairs.

STEP TWO: Managing the driver's down time. If the driver was injured in the accident they may need to recover or attend therapy. If the driver was not injured and is ready to return to work, they will need a truck to drive. Hopefully, the company will have a spare truck, otherwise they may be forced to rent a truck while the repairs are being completed.

STEP THREE: The office will be working closely with the insurance to determine costs of repairs/clean-up/etc.

STEP FOUR: The office will need to make sure that all documentation is completed in order to be prepared for any type of audit (OSHA, FMCSA, insurance company) that could occur.

The business disruption phase often overlaps with the investigation phase and the final phase. This phase can be a lengthy process and take months, depending on many of the factors above.

Accidents - Actions in the Aftermath (Part 2 of 4)

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 13:40:05 GMT

Accidents - Actions in the Aftermath (Part 2 of 4)

Unfortunately, accidents occur and when they do there are many different steps and actions that begin. The second part is the investigation phase and consists of six steps.

STEP ONE: The driver will need to comply with any necessary DOT testing that is required. Depending on the incident/accident and the company policy DOT testing may or may not be necessary.

STEP TWO: If law enforcement is involved in the investigation, ensure that they have access to the needed information and they have the correct company contacts.

STEP THREE: If there was any type of spill (fuel, cargo, etc) make sure that a clean-up service has been contacted and is dispatched to the scene.

STEP FOUR: Depending on the location and severity of the accident, media may be at the scene. This is for the office to handle, the driver should not have any contact with the media.

STEP FIVE: The office will coordinate with the insurance company on their requests and any movement of equipment (if needed).

STEP SIX: Office/Safety personnel will be talking with the insurance company and with the driver. This is when the driver will be asked to give their written statement of the incident/accident.

The investigation phase is more time consuming and takes a longer amount of time after the accident has occurred.

Accidet Aftermath - Part One - Collision Response

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 16:29:30 GMT

Collision Response

Unfortunately, accidents occur and when they do there are many different steps and actions that begin. The first part is called the collision response and is made up of seven separate steps.

STEP ONE: Determining if anyone needs medical/emergency services, hopefully this is not necessary, but if it is, the first step is to contact the authorities.

STEP TWO: If emergency services are not needed, then the second step is to make sure that the tractor/trailer/cargo are secured to prevent any further damage. If you are able to move to the side - away from traffic that is ideal.

STEP THREE: Exchange information with the other vehicle, make sure you get their name, driver's license information, phone number and their insurance information. This information can be written down or you can take pictures on your phone (this might be the easiest to avoid any issues/incorrect information).

STEP FOUR: Call the company right away (safety, dispatch, etc.) to let them know what has happened.

STEP FIVE: The office will usually handle this step - they will contact the insurance company to report the incident/accident.

STEP SIX: Office/Safety personnel may be dispatched to the scene (if the accident/incident occurred within a certain distance of the headquarters) to take additional pictures and lend assistance where needed.

STEP SEVEN: Dispatch/ the office will manage the service disruption, so they will determine if the load needs to have a different driver complete the delivery or if the load is undeliverable and how to move forward from that determination.

The collision response portion usually happens quickly and immediately after an accident/incident.

SAFETY & SECURITY

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 13:37:04 GMT

SAFETY AND SECURITY FOR EACH TRIP

Safety is obviously the number one priority for each trip - making sure the driver, equipment and cargo arrive at their destination safely! Another piece of each trip is security - making sure that the driver, equipment and cargo avoid theft while on the road. There are steps that can be taken to ensure that you don't become a victim of crime while traveling.

1. NEVER talk about what you are hauling or the details of your route! It may seem innocent enough if another driver asks - but do you know their intention? Are they actually curious, or are they fishing for information?

2. ALWAYS make sure that if you leave the truck or are in the sleeper that you lock ALL the doors.

3. ALWAYS check the seal and lock when you return to your truck.

4. KNOW your surroundings - be alert when walking to/from your truck. Don't get caught looking at your phone or not paying attention to objects/people around you. If something were to happen you would need to give detailed descriptions to the police - so make sure that you are not distracted!

5. PARKING - choose well lit areas around other trucks, try not to seclude yourself by parking far away from everything else.

Overall, making sure that you are paying attention to your surroundings and not talking about your load or route to others can help to ensure that you are not a victim of theft while on the road. Stay safe.

Distracted Driving

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 13:17:41 GMT

The Dangers of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving - we all see it on the road, everyone is distracted by their phones and all of the alerts and messages that come through on the device. However, when people are distracted by their phones while driving it can lead to catastrophic accidents. According to the website truckinginfo.com, distracted CMV drivers are 72% more likely to be involved in a 'near collision' than drivers who are not distracted by their device.

Many of the distracted drivers let safety slide in order to reply to a message or to look at their phone. The distracted drivers are often guilty of speeding, committing fundamental driving errors, swerving and tailgating as they are not paying attention to the road and conditions in front of them.

Over a year-long analysis period other conclusions were:

>distracted drivers are more than 2 times likely to be in a collision

>distracted drivers are almost 3 times more likely to roll through, or blow through a red light or stop sign

>distracted drivers are over 3 times as likely to be speeding at more than 10mph over the posted speed

>distracted drivers are more than 2 times as likely to swerve out of their lane

>distracted drivers fail to wear their seatbelt

Per the FMCSA drivers are to be wearing a headset (hands free device) any time they are using their phone. Although even talking on the phone can lead to a distraction. The fines for a driver not using a headset can be over $2,000!

At the end of the day the goal should be to arrive safely at the destination with no accidents, especially one that could have been completely avoided by not driving distracted.

Avoiding Rollovers

Wed, 04 May 2022 14:14:21 GMT

Avoiding Rollovers

There are many instances when a truck can rollover. The most common rollovers occur on highways (or other roads with high speeds) and entry and exit ramps. The majority of the time the rollovers are caused by driver error, such as going too fast on a curved road, entering an entrance/exit ramp at too high of a speed, misjudging the sharpness or a turn, turning/swerving too quickly and driver distraction.

Drivers can take steps to avoid rollovers by following posted speed limit signs and making sure they are focused on driving. When using an entrance/exit ramp making sure they are going below the posted speed limit signs for the ramp, as those are meant for a passenger vehicle. If a driver is on a curved road - also driving at less than the posted speed limit can help to avoid a rollover. Finally - by keeping the driver's attention on the road with limited or no in-cab distractions, it will allow for the driver to stay focused on the road and drastically reduce the potential for a rollover caused by turning/swerving too quickly.

Cargo securement can also play a part in rollover accidents. When a driver picks up a load, if the shipper has already loaded and sealed the trailer, the driver cannot see that the load is properly secured. If that is the case, going through a scale to make sure that the load is evenly distributed can help the driver to feel at ease with how the load's weight is distributed throughout the trailer. If the driver goes through the scale and the load is too heavy in one area of the trialer, they should ask that the shipper redistribute the load's weight in order for the truck, cargo and driver to arrive safely at the receiver.

Avoid Hitting Stationary Objects

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 13:22:27 GMT

Avoid Hitting Stationary Objects

One of the most preventable crashes is avoiding stationary objects. The first step in preventing these types of incidents is to recognize the hazards that can lead to a preventable crash and to take steps to avoid or lessen the hazards.

The first hazard to review is the environment. Parking lots, truck stops, rest areas and customer facilities are the most common places where stationary objects are struck. These are also the places where drivers spend a good portion of their time. Other areas that can be a hazard to drivers are bridges (know the height of your truck), sagging wires, building overhangs and road signs are all stationary objects that can be struck if the driver is not aware of their surroundings. Another hazard is the weather conditions, if visibility is low the driver's ability to see stationary objects that may be in their path is diminished.

The next hazard is the equipment itself. Commercial motor vehicles can have multiple blind spots that make it difficult for the driver to see certain objects in the area around the truck, even at low speeds. If the mirrors are dirty, damaged, or not in working order that can affect the driver's ability to see any potential hazards.

The third hazard is a driver's own personal behaviors. Distractions inside and outside of the truck are a risk factor anytime that the truck is moving. Driver's should ensure that they are getting out of the truck and inspecting their surroundings (around and above the truck) for stationary objects that could lead to a potential accident.

In order to lessen the risks of hitting a stationary object the following items can become a part of the driver's routine. Before parking, slow down when entering the area and take in the surroundings, avoid parking near stationary objects (if possible), try to eliminate all distractions (such as talking on the phone) in order to focus on driving. Make sure you know your truck's dimensions and look for anything that could strike the truck. Before parking - GET OUT AND LOOK (GOAL)!!! If spotters or traffic control is available - use them, especially if it involves backing across traffic lanes. Use the truck mirrors, but if the driver is uncertain they should get out and look. Again - limit distractions inside the truck as much as possible. When the driver is ready to leave the location - they should walk around the truck to make sure that the truck is in working order and to identify any new hazards.

There are many hazards on the road that can lead to an accident, but many accidents can be avoided by the driver's identifying hazards and responding appropriately.

Driver Safety and Wellbeing

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 15:07:22 GMT

Safety and Wellbeing of the Driver

Another important aspect of driving is ensuring that the driver is safe and well. If the driver is ill or injured they cannot drive - which can be detrimental to the driver and to the company. There are many things that drivers can do to make sure they stay healthy and safe while out on the road, below are just a few items that can help drivers stay well.

When drivers practice good personal hygiene and maintain a professional appearance they will show the pride they have in their job and could avoid common illnesses. By ensuring that drivers never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs this will help to keep the driver safe and alert while performing his/her job duties. To avoid injury while out driving, one of the easiest things to remember is three points of contact. This applies to entering and exiting the truck, always having three points of contact - two hands and a foot or two feet and one hand. When this method is utilized injuries from climbing in and out of the truck are greatly reduced. While traveling around the country drivers may hear others discussing what kind of load they are hauling or the cost of the load. By divulging this information it could be a temptation for criminals looking to break into the tractor/trailer while it is parked to steal the goods.

One of the most important ways for drivers to stay healthy while out on the road is for them to practice healthy eating habits and make time to stretch and exercise. Although it can be difficult to eat healthy while on the road, drivers must make sure they are making good choices when purchasing food on the road. They can also bring food along with them in their trucks (assuming they have a refrigerator). After sitting the majority of the day it is important for drivers to move. It does not need to be anything overly strenuous - even going for a 20 minute walk will be beneficial. Stretching is another good way of taking care of one's body. It also helps to reduce stress, relieve muscle tension, improve blood flow and can help lower blood pressure. By making a conscious decision to move and stretch it will help to keep the body and mind healthy.

COURTESY RULES WHILE DRIVING

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 20:17:59 GMT

COURTESY RULES WHILE DRIVING

As you are driving there are many other vehicles around you. Whether these are other commercial vehicles or if they are passenger vehicles - certain items are a courtesy to all of those with whom you are sharing the road.

RULE #1 - Sharing the road. This includes all vehicles, motorcycles, bicyclists, stranded vehicles and emergency vehicles. Make sure you are giving everyone enough of a cushion and moving over a lane (if you are able).

RULE #2 - Maintain a proper following distance. You should allow for one second per every 10mph (if you are going 60mph, you should have a six second following distance). Do not tailgate! Even in heavy traffic, make sure you have a cushion in front of you and if need be, slow down to ease out of the congested traffic. If you want to check your following distance, find a stationary object (i.e. a telephone pole) and count the seconds until you are at the spot where the vehicle passed.

RULE #3 - Observe the proper speed for conditions. Make sure you are driving at an appropriate speed for the weather/traffic/construction. This comes into play more so during the winter - please make sure that you are not speeding and slowing down so that you arrive safely to your destination.

RULE #4 - Always signal a lane change in advance. This ensures that everyone around you knows your intentions. It will also help those around you to get out of any blind spots or back off to allow you to make your maneuver.

RULE #5 - Know your blind spots and manage the space around your trailer. Make sure you are checking your mirrors often and know where the traffic is located. When checking blind spots - using the 'lean and look' method to ensure the area by the tractor is clear when you are changing lanes or turning.

RULE #6 - Slow down when entering a ramp, curve or turn. The posted speed limit signs are meant for passenger cars, not commercial motor vehicles, so please make sure you are slowed down when making the turn to avoid a rollover or another issue.

These are just a few of the rules of the road. Please make sure you are following all traffic laws and regulations while driving. And, of course - DRIVE SAFELY!

Jackknifes

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 15:00:12 GMT

Tractor and Trailer Jackknifes

Tractor and trailer jackknifes are a scary situation, but can be avoided. Jackknifes can happen in any kind of weather or road condition.

A trailer jackknife is more likely to happen when the trailer is empty and the road conditions are slick. If the driver brakes and the trailer tires lock up the back end of the trailer will start to slide either to the right or left; with the tractor usually still pointing straight ahead and the tractor tires having traction. If the driver can let off of the brakes and lightly use the throttle the trailer tires usually find traction again and a jackknife can be avoided.

A tractor jackknife is also more likely on slick roads; when the load is heavy, the tractor and trailer are not lined up and the brakes are applied, causing the drive tires to lock up. Always make sure that the tractor and trailer are aligned, if they are not aligned it could be a contributing factor to a jackknife accident. A tractor jackknife can also occur if the roads are slick and the throttle is applied too hard, it may cause the drive tires to lose traction and the tractor to jackknife.

In less than ideal road conditions, ensure that you are driving a proper speed for the conditions and are not forcefully applying the brakes or the throttle. As always, if you don't feel safe driving in the conditions communicate with dispatch. Stay safe!

Winter Driving Hazards

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 15:34:59 GMT

Tips for winter driving

The Hazards of Winter Driving

Driving in the winter presents specific challenges to drivers due to the constantly changing road conditions. Drivers must be able to recognize the hazards and use the correct defense to avoid a collision.

Three of the main hazards are the environment, equipment and personal behaviors. First, the environment - weather is the main culprit. The snow, sleet, sun glare and short days affect visibility and can make driving more difficult. Black ice, potholes, and reduced lane sizes due to snow piles or snow removal equipment add to the difficulty of winter driving. Equipment can be the second hazard. Make sure you are completing a pre- and post-trip inspection which can help to catch issues before they become a hazard. Pay very close attention to the following: tires - tread wear and inflation, heater/defroster, inoperable or damaged lights and improperly adjusted brakes. These items can be a detriment to you if you haven't properly checked them. Lastly, your own behaviors can be a hazard. Do not drive too fast for conditions, follow too closely or become distracted, this can affect perception and reaction time.

To ensure that you are as safe as possible during the winter driving months pay special attention to the following items to keep you safe:

1. Use the proper speed for conditions - follow speed limits and adjust your speed if the road conditions worsen.

2. Your reaction to hazards - do NOT use cruise control on wet/slippery roadways. If you do not feel safe driving, pull over and alert dispatch.

3. Keep a proper following distance - remember 1 second for every 10mph (if you are doing 60 - you should have a 6 second following distance) - if the roads are wet/slippery back off even further.

4. Monitor conditions - make sure that you are checking forecasts ahead of time for your route. Watch for signs of deteriorating road conditions.

5. Avoid distractions - when the weather is bad you need all of your attention on the road. Do not use your phone, limit your eating/drinking, and make sure that your GPS and radio are set and do not need to be adjusted (one less thing to worry about)!

6. During your pre-trip inspection make sure your windows are clean, your lights are visible, your windshield wipers are in good working order and that you have thoroughly checked everything to complete a safe trip.

Avoiding Rear-End Collisions

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 16:57:26 GMT

Avoiding Rear-End Collisions

Preventing Rear-End Crashes

Although many trucks have front-end collision avoidance systems to prevent rear-end crashes drivers must still continue to be vigilant. Drivers cannot rely solely on the technology in the truck, they must remain alert and give the road all of their attention. There are many distractions that can take your attention away from the road, such as eating/drinking, fatigue, daydreaming, texting and road hypnosis - just to name a few.

Simple tips to help avoid rear-end crashes

Leave more space between you and the vehicle in front of you (remember 1 second for every 10 mph you are driving)
Check your mirrors often
Focus on driving - don't get distracted
Brake slowly
Check your brake lights during your pre-trip inspection
Pay attention to driving conditions
Keep your view unobstructed

Opening/Closing the Trailer Doors

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 16:42:26 GMT

Opening/Closing Trailer Doors

A few tips for ensuring safety while opening/closing your trailer doors

Stretch before opening the trailer door in order to lessen the chance of straining muscles.
Check the area around you for any trip/slip hazards.
Observe the area - make sure that you can open the trailer doors without damaging anything.
Be cognizant of the wind - if the wind could catch it make sure you do not try to hold onto or catch the swinging door.
Push against the doors to check if there is any shifted cargo leaning on them. Do not open the door if you aren't certain it is safe.
Always stand outside the radius of the door to avoid being struck.

10 Guidelines for the Road

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 19:11:42 GMT

Follw these guidelines to make your trip less stressful

While out on the road, things can get stressful - these 10 guidelines can help ease the stress on your trip.

Get plenty of rest! Make sure that you are following your e-log and taking your rest breaks and getting plenty of sleep when your day is complete.
Make sure you are doing a thorough pre-trip inspection before you leave, and each time you stop. This will help you to catch little items BEFORE they become big items.
Maintain one lane as much as possible - this can help lessen the stress of constantly changing lanes.
Be professional to other drivers and the employees at the shipper/receiver. You don't know what they have gone through today - show some kindness.
Be attentive to the road ahead. Always make sure you are looking near you and then checking what is going on further in the distance to ensure that you can plan appropriately.
Make routine and quick glances in your side and hood mirrors to monitor traffic, then return your focus to the road ahead of you.
When backing - make sure you Get Out And Look (GOAL) before you start backing to check for any unseen issues and to make sure that you are aware of the surroundings. If you need to, get a spotter and/or traffic control when backing into a difficult spot.
Observe the local, state and federal laws while driving!
Yield the right of way, especially at intersections, roundabouts, merging traffic and any emergency vehicles.
Avoid any unnecessary distractions while driving (texting or not using your headset).

Stay safe out there!

Navigating Through Road Construction

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 19:10:54 GMT

Road Construction Ahead...

We have all been through road construction - here are some reminders while driving through in a tractor-trailer.

Make sure you are following the posted speed limits - sometimes they come up fast - so make sure you SLOW DOWN.
Maintain a proper following distance - at LEAST 6 seconds, maybe more depending on the conditions.
Maintain one lane - sometimes there will be signs that indicate which lane trucks should travel.
Yield the Right of Way - traffic is tight in construction zones make sure to leave plenty of room.
Avoid distractions - this is something that should always be done, but especially in construction zones as they are different and constantly changing.
Watch the road ahead - be aware of upcoming changes or heavy traffic in front of you.
React properly to hazards - give yourself extra time and space to ensure you drive safely through the zone.