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The Trucker News Staff

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About The Trucker News Staff
The Trucker News Staff produces engaging content for not only TheTrucker.com, but also The Trucker Newspaper, which has been serving the trucking industry for more than 30 years. With a focus on drivers, the Trucker News Staff aims to provide relevant, objective content pertaining to the trucking segment of the transportation industry. The Trucker News Staff is based in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Posts by The Trucker News Staff

Embark, HP launch autonomous, electric drayage pilot

By The Trucker News Staff -

SAN FRANCISCO — Embark Trucks Inc. has launched a joint initiative with HP Inc. to combine electric and autonomous truck technology through a truck drayage pilot in the Los Angeles area. Through the partnership, local loads are hauled to and from Embark’s highway-adjacent transfer points using BYD 8TT electric trucks operated by human drivers. The longer, middle segment of each trip is completed autonomously using trucks equipped with the Embark Driver software. “We’re combining the best of both worlds with this partnership, pairing the middle-mile strengths of autonomous trucks with the sustainability benefits of electric trucks in urban road settings,” said Alex Rodrigues, CEO of Embark. “Autonomous and electric trucks represent a powerful tool for companies like HP to help the trucking industry reduce harmful diesel emissions while continuing to deliver goods to the businesses and consumers who need them.” The EV drayage pilot gives HP the ability to leverage electric trucks, which currently have a driving range best suited for drayage operations, within its supply chain. According to a statement from Embark, this practice seamlessly complements the efficiencies provided by Embark-equipped autonomous trucks, which are 10% more fuel efficient than human-operated trucks. Adopting both long-haul autonomous trucks and EV drayage enables HP to remove up to 50,000 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other pollutants from its distribution network over the next 10 years, according to preliminary research conducted by Embark. “HP’s goal is to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions across our value chain by 2040,” said Jessica Kipp, Global Head of WW Logistics, HP. “We’re driving innovative solutions with the support of partners like Embark and BYD to reduce the environmental impact of traditional trucks within our supply chain while increasing speed and efficiency for customers.” According to a statement released by Embark, the greater Los Angeles area is a leading emitter of greenhouse gases and is especially affected by harmful diesel emissions. In addition, Embark noted that heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks, contribute 32% of mobile source nitrogen oxide emissions that react in the atmosphere to form ozone and particulate matter. “BYD is excited to be part of this creative solution to decrease emissions from freight movement that pollute the air and harm vulnerable communities,” said Vincent Pellecchia, strategic account manager for BYD Motors. “By working with Embark, we’re giving storied companies like HP the tools they need to create sustainable supply chains end-to-end.” Embark’s transfer point model features short first- and last-mile legs in urban environments that are ideal for the use of BYD’s electric trucks, while the longer-haul middle-mile trips can be made using Embark Driver-equipped tractors. “We’re excited to see innovative companies like HP, Embark and BYD step up to help the State of California meet its ambitious emission reduction goals,” said Assembly Majority Leader Eloise Gomez Reyes. “With zero-emissions short-haul and autonomous long-haul trucks working in tandem, we’re improving air quality in California’s disadvantaged communities and addressing the climate crisis head-on.”

CFI driver Jon ‘Smitty’ Smith passes 5 million mile mark

By The Trucker News Staff -

JOPLIN, Mo. — After more than 37 years on the road, Jon “Smitty” Smith, a driver for CFI, has achieved an elite status: He is now among the less than 1% of all professional drivers who have surpassed the 5 million mile mark. Smith is the first CFI driver to achieve this milestone, leading the company’s 560 other drivers who are currently working toward the 1, 2, 3 or 4 million mile mark. According to a statement from CFI, Smith achieved this milestone while also maintaining an outstanding safety record during his nearly four decades of driving. He has driven accident-free for 3,216,515 miles, an enviable record by any measure, and his safe driving streak continues today. “Safety is the cornerstone of CFI’s operations and is our No. 1 core value,” said Greg Orr, president of CFI, an operating company of TFI International Inc. “The amount of focus and attention, day in and day out, that it takes to operate a tractor-trailer, though all kinds of road conditions, weather and congestion is perhaps the most difficult challenge a driver faces,” Orr added. “Jon Smith’s sustained excellence epitomizes what it truly means to be a professional in this industry.” CFI honored Smith during a special ceremony on Sept. 17, during this year’s National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. To put the accomplishment into perspective, 5 million miles is roughly equivalent to 1,723 trips from New York to San Francisco, or 10 round trips to the moon. For the average American, who drives about 14,500 miles each year, it would take some 345 years to complete the 5 million miles Smith has driven in less than 40 years. Smith’s first experience driving a truck was helping a friend over a winter. He turned that initial interest in a full-time job when he joined CFI in 1984, launching a professional driving career spanning more than three decade and covering 5 million miles … and counting.

US Border Patrol agents stop tractor-trailer smuggling attempt

By The Trucker News Staff -

SIERRA BLANCA, Texas – Agents with the U.S. Border Patrol recently foiled a human smuggler who was using a tractor-trailer to transport 49 undocumented immigrants into the country. On Sept. 16, agents conducting traffic check operations at the Interstate -10 immigration checkpoint near Sierra Blanca, Texas, encountered a tractor-trailer in the primary inspection lane. A nonintrusive K-9 inspection was performed on the vehicle, yielding a positive alert. The vehicle was directed to the secondary inspection lane, where agents opened the trailer doors and discovered a large group of people hidden in the cargo area. A total of 49 undocumented immigrants were concealed in the trailer, from the countries of Brazil, Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, Mexico and Peru. “Checkpoint operations are vital to monitoring the egress of illegal activity into the United States,” said Sean L. McGoffin, chief patrol agent for the Big Bend Sector. “Agents and their K-9 partners were able to positively identify a large smuggling scheme, saving multiple individuals from a potentially dangerous situation.” The driver of the tractor trailer, a visa holder, was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations for prosecution. All of the undocumented immigrants were medically evaluated and processed by the Border Patrol.

Daimler issues major recall for Freightliner Cascadia models

By The Trucker News Staff -

PORTLAND — Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) has issued a recall for more than 105,000 2019-21 Freightliner Classic Cascadia and Freightliner Cascadia trucks for insufficiently tightened drag link taper joints, according to a news release from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA). If these joints come loose, drivers could lose all steering control, the news release said. Owner-operators are urged to call the NHTSA at 888-327-4236 or visit www.nhtsa.gov for more information. Calls may also be made to DTNA at 800-547-0712.

Oregon to fine drivers nearly $900 for tire chain violations

By The Trucker News Staff -

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Legislature has approved hiking the fine for trucks who don’t use tire chains when required during winter weather. According to a news release from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ORDOT), the fine will be $880 beginning Sept. 25. “Prepare for slippery weather travel now,” the news release said. “Oregon law requires all commercial vehicles to carry chains whenever road conditions might require their use during your trip and signs are posted.” The law also requires vehicles to chain up when signs note that conditions ahead require them. “Start carrying chains before the weather takes you by surprise,” the news release stated. The estimated cost of delays caused by trucks failing to follow Oregon chain laws is more than $8 million a year to the motor carrier industry and other highway users, according to ORDOT. Many other states carry similar chain law fines, but fines vary widely. In Colorado, drivers who do not follow chain laws will receive a $500 fine plus a surcharge of $79. If a truck is blocking the highway, the fine increases to $1,000 plus a $157 surcharge. In Connecticut, violations will start with a warning, but all subsequent offenses will result in a fine not more than $200. Montana’s fine for not abiding by chain laws is just $25.  

5 tips to grow your trucking business

By The Trucker News Staff -

Courtesy of OTR Capital The transportation industry is an increasingly competitive market. Regardless of how long you’ve been in trucking or how long you’ve owned your own fleet, you should always focus your core business strategies on sustainable growth. How do you ensure that you stay ahead of the competition and adapt to changes across the industry? In this article we are going to cover five items that will support the growth of your trucking business: Organize your finances; Establish your growth plan; Protect your company and drivers; Network within the trucking community; and Make sure you have access to continuous cash flow. Organize your finances. The freight market is highly volatile, with massive swings in linehaul rates throughout the year due to changes in demand, fuel prices and more. It’s time to create a growth plan that accounts for all industry conditions, and for that you will need to know your bottom line. On a per-mile basis, what are you spending on insurance? What about maintenance? Before you decide to finance that new truck or hire on another driver, are you still profitable if linehaul rates drop 5% to 10%? Don’t hesitate to ask the experts these questions. It’s helpful to have a firm grasp of this either way. OTR Capital recommends that you consult with companies that specialize in transportation to help with your finances. Our partners at the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) have created a great tool for tracking your expenses as a truck driver. Click here to access OOIDA’s online tool. Establish your growth plan. Operating and scaling a successful fleet is highly dependent on a firm infrastructure to support your growth. That means more than just adding new trucks and hiring drivers. Successful fleets account for the dispatch, maintenance, payroll, and compliance oversights needed to sustain each unit in operation. Before you purchase that next truck and begin growing, a few things to keep in mind are: Will my insurance policy allow for mid-term expansion? How will this affect my renewal? If a driver quits, how easily can I replace him? If freight rates slump, can we afford the expenses associated with the additional unit? Do I have the dispatch support necessary to keep the truck moving and the driver happy? Can we handle the additional weekly driver pay? Who is responsible for making sure the truck is compliant? Who handles maintenance? Whether you’re planning to add one tractor to your fleet or 10, having answers to these questions can make or break you in the long term. Protect your company and drivers. It’s difficult to keep up with the ever-evolving rules and regulations surrounding the trucking industry. Did you know that one accident or failed audit can put you out of business if you aren’t properly protected? Working with an insurance agency and safety/compliance teams that you can trust are major safeguards to protect you and your fleet. Working with a transportation focused insurance brokerage, such as Marquee Insurance Group, will make sure that regardless of the size of your fleet, you have the proper coverages in place to protect your business. In addition, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has published a free safety planner tool on their site make sure that you have an easy-to-use guide on all thing’s compliance. Click here to check it out. Network within the trucking community. As with any business, it’s vital to have a team in place that you can count on. The same goes with partners. Establishing the right partnerships can also help accelerate sustainable growth with the necessary resources for your business. Quality relationships with industry leaders on the freight, insurance, factoring, and fuel sides of the business, can also help form a foundation for success. Whether you work with OTR Capital for factoring or not, we highly recommend that you check out some of our incredible partners for any of your fleet’s needs. A few other educational tools across the industry tools include: Online community; Transportation webinars and YouTube channels (OTRtv); Conferences; OOIDA; and DAT Resources. Make sure you have access to continuous cash flow. To run a successful operation, most fleet owners know when, and if, their outstanding invoices will turn into realized cashflow. Managing your open accounts receivable can be a difficult and time-intensive task. One of the most common cash flow solutions is invoice factoring. Factoring your transportation invoices, particularly when you plan to grow, serves two valuable roles as your operation expands. Your business will benefit not only from regular cashflow, but also from a customer risk perspective. As you expand, factoring provides a less expensive alternative to hiring accounts receivable and accounting teams. At scale, factoring assists with keeping costs down and revenue up. Fleets that utilize factoring correctly have been able to grow faster and more reliably while keeping a lean in-house team. Although factoring is not the only cash flow solution available in the transportation space, it is the most used and integrated service available. In trucking, being prepared for the road ahead is half the battle. Ask the tough questions now to start establishing your growth plan and set yourself up for success in the trucking industry. OTR Capital helps new ventures and existing ventures alike fuel their growth with access to the cash flow needed to focus on their business. Get access to the right partnerships in the trucking industry and join a family of truck drivers today that want to take charge of their business when you factor with OTR.

CV demand remains strong; supply chain still restrained

By The Trucker News Staff -

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Like in most any other industry in the world, the COVID-19 Delta variant has created some hiccups in the economics of trucking, with build rates down and supply chains constrained, according to a news release from ACT Research. ACT’s most recent State of the Industry: NA Classes 5-8 report provides a monthly look at the current production, sales and general state of the on-road heavy and medium duty commercial vehicle markets in North America. Speaking about the supply chain, Kenny Vieth, ACT Research’s president and senior analyst, said, “While ‘semiconductors’ has become the generic reference for the supply chain’s shortcomings, in actuality there are scores of parts that continue to be impacted — by the pandemic, by the lingering impact of steel tariffs and even by the February storm that incapacitated Texas and shutdown swathes of the U.S. plastics industry for two-plus quarters. Like the supply chains themselves, the issues are not only domestic and not only commercial vehicle.” Vieth further stated that while “semiconductors might be masking other component issues … they are at the heart of the supply chain’s inability to ramp production. Recent news indicates that COVID outbreaks shut down silicon wafer and sub-assembly plants in Southeast Asia, representing another nail in the coffin of a nearer-term recovery in supply. Even as new ‘fab’ capacity is coming online this year and next, global automotive industry shutdown announcements have become weekly occurrences.” Regarding commercial vehicle segments, Vieth commented, “After three months in which vehicle orders fell below earlier-in-the-year levels, medium- and heavy-duty orders each rose to a five-month high in August, reiterating the notion that full backlogs and not a lack of demand were responsible for order weakness.”    

Roadrunner Freight names 2021 Drivers of the Year

By The Trucker News Staff -

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. — As part of this year’s National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW), held Sept. 12-18, Roadrunner Freight announced the winners of the carrier’s Driver of the Year awards. This year’s winners are David Lopez, a line hauler from Las Vegas, and Corinthian Lynon (shown above), a local driver based in Houston. “I have had the pleasure of knowing both David and Corinthian and am very proud to present them with our coveted Driver of the Year Award,” said Frank Hurst, president of Roadrunner. “Both of these professional drivers are great business owners and live by our mantra, ‘Ship It Like You Own It!’” Chris Jamroz, Roadrunner’s executive chairman, also had high praise for Lopez and Lynon. “David and Corinthian embody everything that makes America great,” Jamroz stated. “They are not just drivers, but entrepreneurs, small business owners and excellent partners for Roadrunner. Their leadership and hard work keep America’s economy moving.” In addition to recognizing its Drivers of the Year during the week, Roadrunner celebrated each of the nearly 1,000 drivers in its fleet with gift bags, grab-and-go lunches and snacks, and other tokens of appreciation. “During NTDAW, Roadrunner Freight wants to recognize the immense contributions made by our entire fleet,” said Scott Ware, Roadrunner’s senior vice president of transportation and network solutions. “Without this group of hardworking professionals, our economy would come to a standstill. We can’t thank them enough daily, so it’s especially important for our organization to make sure they all feel our sincere appreciation during this week.” This year’s Driver of the Year honorees were nominated by a committee that included Roadrunner’s leadership, service center managers and driver success team. Nominees were evaluated based on safety, operational performance and professionalism. In recognition of their superior performance, Lopez and Lynon each received a cash bonus from Roadrunner. “What stood out to us about Corinthian is his dedication to customer service. Our customers in Houston have sent countless accolades about his professionalism and the courteous manner in which he takes care of their shipments,” Hurst said. “David has partnered with Roadrunner since 2015, and has been a champion to many new drivers, mentoring them along their journey to become successful business owners,” Hurst added. “He and his wife, Valerie, have played a large part in shaping our culture to put drivers first at Roadrunner and helped us get better at our mission of empowering entrepreneurs.”

PrePass real-time safety alerts now available across contiguous US

By The Trucker News Staff -

PHOENIX — The PrePass safety Alerts system has been upgraded to include critical traffic warnings across all 48 contiguous states. Motor carriers and commercial vehicle compliance agencies now benefit from thousands of Alerts that appear in-cab on the PrePass app, according to a statement from the PrePass Safety Alliance. Drivers receive audio and visual PrePass Alerts as they approach known high-risk areas, helping them to stay alert and reduce speed when applicable. PrePass Safety Alliance works in collaboration with the trucking industry and enforcement agencies to select “alert” locations that best reflect true areas of concern. The PrePass Alerts system now offers up-to-the-minute in-cab safety notification of work zones, traffic incidents and crashes, dangerous slow-downs and traffic congestion — in addition to the original notifications of truck parking, steep grades, gusty winds, “no commercial truck” roads, rest areas and brake check chain-up areas. The PrePass Safety Alert system is offered as an added benefit of the PrePass weigh station bypass app, available on Android and iOS powered devices and in-cab telematics systems. To gain access to the new features, users can simply download or update the PrePass app. “Our state and industry partners have told us that work zones and dangerous slowdowns represent two critical highway safety areas in need of improvement. This expansion of the PrePass Alerts system takes an important step in addressing those concerns and flows directly from our mission to make America’s highways safer and more efficient,” said Jarrod Del Prado, vice president of operations for PrePass Safety Alliance. “When you consider the additional dynamic traffic safety notifications included in this upgrade, we believe the ALERTS program will lead to fewer crashes and safer roads for everyone.”

Alabama Motor Express opens new terminal south of Atlanta

By The Trucker News Staff -

ATLANTA — Alabama Motor Express (AMX), a family-owned trucking and logistics company, has opened a new terminal in Jackson, Georgia. According to a company statement, the new location brings AMX closer to key customers in one of the nation’s largest freight corridors. “We’re always striving for new ways to better serve our customers,” said Jared Moore, vice president of traffic and logistics for AMX. “The new terminal gives our customers in the greater Atlanta area faster, more responsive access to a readily available trailer pool, local drivers and strategic support.” The new AMX terminal is located less than 50 miles south of Atlanta. The terminal’s trailer pool will include about 60 tractors and even more trailers in a secure, highly monitored yard. AMX is in the process of staffing the facility. “Regional expertise and accessibility are critical when managing capacity, rates and unforeseen challenges,” Moore said. “We’ve been serving the greater Atlanta area for more than 30 years. Now, we have the local resources in place to connect with customers more efficiently, whether that’s accommodating last-minute deliveries, meeting for in-person strategy sessions or just catching up over lunch,” he continued. “We’re part of the local community, and we’re committed to helping it continue to thrive. We’ve already many established local dedicated customer accounts — and we’re ready to add more.” For more information about AMX, click here.

Used truck prices making, breaking records

By The Trucker News Staff -

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Preliminary used Class 8 volumes (same-dealer sales) dropped 5% month over month and 24% year over year in August. Through the first eight months of the year, activity is 8% higher compared to the same period a year ago, according to the latest preliminary release of the State of the Industry: U.S. Classes 3-8 Used Trucks published by ACT Research. Other data released in ACT’s preliminary report includes month-over-month comparisons for August 2021, which showed that average prices of used trucks rose 7%, as average miles were flat and age rose 5%, compared to July. Compared to August 2020, average price was 47% higher, with average miles and age each up 3% and 11%, respectively. On a year-to-date basis, average price is 33% above its year-ago level for the first eight months of 2020, with average miles down 1% and age flat on a year-to-date basis. “Preliminary same-dealer sales descended further in August. In a normal market, sales would typically have increased in August, but this market is anything but typical,” said Steve Tam, vice president at ACT Research. “In the context of what can only be described as a stellar economic recovery, demand for seemingly everything, including commercial vehicles, is off the charts. However, sating that demand is proving to be an insurmountable challenge.” Regarding used truck prices, Tam added, “As is usually the case when demand is strong and supply is weak, competition heats up and prices become the battleground. Following a brief respite in July, used truck price appreciation returned with a vengeance in August. Many, especially those who feared the market may have peaked in July, are relieved that price growth resumed in August. We hold fast to our outlook that pricing will most likely peak around mid-year 2022, based on current supply and demand dynamics.” Asked whether there will be an end to the upward trend of used truck prices, Tam commented, “With considerably fewer options for both new and used equipment, the behavior drives up truck prices. This has the unintended consequence of attracting new operators/trucking companies, sending demand for units even higher, which ultimately means truck prices are likely headed even higher. Eventually, the cycle will balance itself; the key question is when.”  

IRS hikes per diem rate for owner-operators

By The Trucker News Staff -

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced it will increase the allowable per diem rate for owner-operators from $66 to $69 beginning Oct. 1. Truck driver per diem pay is an IRS reimbursement designed to cover meal and incidental expenses incurred by drivers while they are away from home. It gives drivers more take-home pay because less taxes are withheld. While self-employed individuals can generally deduct any expenses incurred to earn their income, company drivers are limited to non-reimbursed expenses required by their employer. For every day of work, owner-operators can deduct $55.22 from their income. Even though the rate will be $69, the IRS only allows 80% of that amount to be deducted. The per diem rate for owner-operators has been $66 since Oct. 1, 2018, when the IRS increased the rate from $63.

Semis banned from Delaware I-95 construction zone

By The Trucker News Staff -

NEW CASTLE COUNTY, Del. — The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) has banned big rigs on Interstate 95 northbound from Interstate 495 to north of the Brandywine River Bridge in Wilmington after two dozen wrecks involving 18-wheelers in a construction zone. Major construction on I-95 began in February and the project, which includes the repair of 19 bridges and several ramps, will take years to complete. According to a DelDOT news release, the area will be restricted to two-axle vehicles and buses only. New signage regarding the restriction is now in place approaching the I-95/I-495 northbound split. DelDOT said it is enacting this temporary restriction following discussions with the Delaware State Police as the agencies work to reduce the number of crashes occurring in the I-95 construction zone. “Since the beginning of the I-95 rehabilitation project there have been nearly two dozen crashes involving tractor-trailers in the construction zone,” said Delaware Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski. “While the tractor-trailer operators are not always at fault in these incidents, these crashes have shut down the roadway for lengthy periods of time, and this is an additional step we are taking to increase safety in this construction zone.” The restriction does not apply to I-95 southbound due to multiple access points and difficulty enforcing the restriction, however, DelDOT urges tractor-trailers and other vehicles with more than two axles to useI-495 as an alternate route. The northbound restriction will remain in place until the project is completed. The announcement created a mild stir on some trucking-related social-media pages. On the Everything Trucking Facebook page, Stewart Vance said, “If they really wanted to improve safety through there, they would ban cars instead.” User Eric Hoss Shimer echoed Vance, saying, “Got that right, and most of the accident times are during rush hour. Usually local jerks in a hurry who could go another route and get where they need to be with time to spare.”

Car slams into semi’s trailer on Indiana interstate

By The Trucker News Staff -

LAKE COUNTY, Ind. — A Pontiac Grand Am struck the trailer of an 18-wheeler in the early morning hours of Sept. 17 on an Indiana interstate onramp, sending the car’s driver to the hospital, according to an Indiana State Police report. A 2019 Freightliner tractor-trailer was parked on the right shoulder ramp of Interstate 65 northbound to Interstates 80 and 94 in Indiana when the Pontiac Grand Am left the roadway and struck it from behind, according to the report. The 18-wheeler driver was not mentioned in the report. The report said Stephanie K. Sanders, 25, of Griffith, Indiana, was found trapped in the Pontiac and had to be extricated from the vehicle by the Gary Fire Department. “(She was taken by) EMS to Northlake Hospital before being flown to the University of Chicago for treatment of serious, life-threatening injuries,” the report said. “Evidence at the crash scene led troopers to suspect that alcohol/drugs may have been a factor.” The ramp’s right lane was closed for approximately three hours during the crash investigation.

Watch for slick, wet roads in northwest this weekend

By The Trucker News Staff -

Heavy rains across portions of northern California and southern Oregon this weekend could make driving treacherous on the state’s roadways. According to a report from the National Weather Service, a flash flood watch is already in effect for north central and southeast Siskiyou County in Oregon. Washington State is also forecast to see heavy rains this weekend. “A strong, wet frontal system will produce periods of moderate to heavy rain across the area, including over the Whitney Glacier and Whitney Creek, which has already produced debris flows this year,” the NWS report said. “Debris flows and rock falls could create problems for cars along highway 97 east of Lake Shastina and West of Tennant (in northern California). This will include the Lava Burn Scar.” Areas of Interstate 5 could also prove dangerous during the forecasted heavy rain, according to the NWS. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has issued a travel advisory ahead of the weather, saying drivers “should prepare now for the first significant rainfall of the season, which will lift oils and grime to the road surface causing slick patches on highways. The hazard often catches motorists by surprise and are often followed by an increase in crashes.” The alert further stated: “Drivers typically get caught by not slowing down and end up either sliding off the road or crashing into other vehicles or the barrier. It’s critical you change your mindset to the season and drive according to conditions of the road.” ODOT offers the following safety trips for driving in the rain: Be aware of conditions: Rain can create dangerous driving conditions with reduced visibility, reduced traction between tires and the road. When it’s raining, be cautious, and give yourself more time to get where you are going. Slow down, especially when driving through standing water. Driving through several inches of water at high speeds can cause you to lose control. Lowering your speed helps you watch out for sudden stops caused by disabled cars, debris and other hazards. Turn on your headlights to improve visibility. Disengage your cruise control. Watch your following distance. A vehicle needs two to three times more stopping distance on wet roads. Watch for emergency responders. Slow down. Give them space to work and move over.    

Circle Logistics launches drayage division at Port of Detroit

By The Trucker News Staff -

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Circle Logistics announced Sept. 15 that it has launched a drayage division to provide support at the Port of Detroit, the largest seaport in Michigan. Circle Logistics, a third-party logistics (3PL) provider, provides coverage across all modes of transportation in the continental United States and Mexico. According to a company statement, the drayage initiative was developed to help alleviate pressure created by global shortages in equipment and labor that have caused extended turnaround times and delays within the drayage process. Circle will now provide drayage offerings for its customers, servicing the U.S. and Canada. Intense backlog at shipping ports has become a prevalent issue affecting every facet of global freight, the statement continued. In addition, the culmination of driver, rubber, truck and chassis shortages has produced a trickle-down effect, making drayage operations increasingly difficult to execute. “When analyzing the current state of the supply chain, we identified an opportunity to apply our most successful end-to-end logistics service philosophies to the drayage industry,” said William Costello, terminal manager for Circle. “For the past decade, Circle’s operations have committed to providing no-fail service that establishes visibility and reliability, even in the most complex market conditions.” As part of its drayage division services, Circle will connect customers to its private pool of chassis to help alleviate the chassis shortage that has been limiting drayage processes at ports around the world for the past year. Circle’s private pool of chassis will be available to haul inbound loads and facilitate necessary processes. Circle’s drayage division will also move 20-, 40-, 45- and 48-foot intermodal containers and service 53-foot domestic lanes. The division will offer truck-to-port service, pre-pull, storage, same-day expedited shipment, and tracking of containers, as well as optimized refrigerated monitoring.

Ohio cuts ribbon on 33 Smart Mobility Corridor

By The Trucker News Staff -

EAST LIBERTY. Ohio — Officials from across Ohio and around the globe opened what is being dubbed as “the world’s most connected highway” on Sept. 15 in the state’s central area. The 33 Smart Mobility Corridor runs from the City of Dublin on the east end through the City of Marysville, past industry partner Honda’s manufacturing and vehicle development operations. It concludes at the gates of the Transportation Research Center (TRC) Inc. in East Liberty, Ohio. The 33 Smart Mobility Corridor is designed to test smart mobility technology in hopes of “enhancing safety, reducing congestion and improving fuel economy,” according to a news release from DriveOhio. “The tech infrastructure being deployed on the 33 Smart Mobility Corridor will help develop and advance transportation technologies that will make travel safer for everyone,” said Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted, who is also the director of InnovateOhio. “Through the creation of InnovateOhio, our administration has prioritized the use of technology to better serve our customers — the people of the state of Ohio. This project is another example of how we can utilize technology to improve quality of life and grow an innovative economy that will fuel the jobs of the future.” Project partners include the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), DriveOhio, U.S. Department of Transportation, Logan County, and the NW 33 Council of Governments (COG), which includes the City of Dublin, the City of Marysville, Union County and the Marysville-Union County Port Authority. “Transportation is evolving, and mobility technology solutions that have and will be tested on the 33 Smart Mobility Corridor will save lives,” said Jack Marchbanks, ODOT director. “As we develop the transportation system of the 21st century and beyond, Ohio will continue leading the way.” With a 35-mile redundant loop of fiber connectivity, the corridor includes 432 strands of available fiber, 63 roadside units and 45 connected intersections. “At DriveOhio, we know that connected and automated vehicle technology will continue to mature and scale at an ever-increasing pace, said Howard Wood, Executive Director of DriveOhio. “The opportunity for Ohio is now. As these systems are tested and refined, infrastructure plays a major role in the development cycle as mobility technology interphases with our legacy transportation system,” Brett Roubinek, president and CEO of Transportation Research Center, Inc., echoed Wood, saying that “Research along this corridor, like our other work here at TRC and The Beta District, is focused on one essential goal: making the world’s vehicles, highways and traffic management systems safer. Ohio will be a leader in making that happen and the 33 Smart Mobility Corridor will be where it all started.” In support of the project, Honda has deployed more than 200 connected vehicles along the corridor to study the technology. “Ohio’s 33 Smart Mobility Corridor enables us to conduct real-world testing of Honda’s SAFE SWARM™ technology, which uses vehicle-to-everything communication to help mitigate collisions, improve traffic flow, increase fuel efficiency for all road users, and prepare for higher-levels of automated driving features,” said Sue Bai, chief engineer at Honda Research Institute USA, Inc. “This initiative is helping us develop the transportation ecosystem of the future with like-minded partners in the auto industry, government, academia, and the private sector.” The corridor has supported the Connected Marysville and the Connected Dublin programs. The City of Marysville is the first connected city in the nation, with all 29 traffic signals connected. The Connected Dublin program features connective vehicle technology being utilized in a multi-lane roundabout. Both pair connected signals, pedestrian crosswalks and infrastructure with a vehicle’s on-board unit to communicate real-time information to the driver. “We would not be here today without like-minded innovators coming together and partnering on a vision for the future,” said Tim Hansley, NW 33 COG President and Union County Administrator. “The 33 Smart Mobility Corridor and the entire Ohio mobility development ecosystem cannot function effectively without coordination and teamwork. Local, state, and federal institutions partnering with industry and academic institutions to promote innovation is what differentiates Ohio from the rest of the pack. We are building the future here in The Beta District and across the state.”  

CBP agents rescue nearly 50 people locked in trailer

By The Trucker News Staff -

LAREDO, Texas — Nearly 50 people were found locked in a trailer near Freer, Texas, during an alleged human smuggling attempt this week, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Shortly after midnight on Sept. 15, Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents assigned to the Freer Station stopped a tractor-trailer at the checkpoint on U.S. 59. During primary inspection, a K-9 alerted agents to the rig, which was referred for a secondary inspection. During the secondary inspection, agents found close to 50 people locked inside the trailer, which had an interior temperature of more than 90 degrees. All were determined to be in the U.S. illegally and were from Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador.

New tech streamlines Love’s Truck Care and Speedco maintenance for fleets

By The Trucker News Staff -

OKLAHOMA CITY — Carriers using Love’s Truck Care and Speedco for vehicle maintenance now have access to new technology that integrates data between the shops and fleets, allowing customers to easily manage their maintenance needs. Shop Connect VIEW (vehicle insights, estimates, workorders), powered by Fleetrock, is a cloud-based system available on the web or through a convenient mobile app. According to a statement from Loves, Shop Connect VIEW offers fleets an integrated, intuitive repair and maintenance process, a simplified parts and inventory management method, an easier way to use warranties, and customized analytics for visibility and workflow. “You can’t improve what you can’t measure,” said Gary Price, executive vice president of Truck Care for Love’s. “Shop Connect VIEW equips our customers with tools to reduce costs, improve uptime, streamline operations and make better data-driven decisions. Fleets are getting a frictionless experience and lowering their cost-per-mile expenses.” Using the tool’s dashboard, fleet managers can schedule service, keep real-time tabs on maintenance, receive service reminders to prevent breakdowns, and track the real cost of ownership for each vehicle. Love’s now uses the system to save time and money on its own fleet, Gemini Motor Transport. Since adopting Shop Connect VIEW, Gemini has achieved a more than 50% reduction in repair order data entry, according to a company statement. Additionally, Gemini has gained improvements in scheduled maintenance compliance, warranty recovery, downtime reduction through better maintenance scheduling and productivity improvements. “Fleetrock is proud to partner with Love’s because both companies share a focus on making customers successful,” said Joe King, president of Fleetrock. “Shop Connect VIEW, powered by Fleetrock, gives fleets a modern and intuitive platform to manage maintenance, lower cost and drive organizational efficiency.”

Indiana couple arrested after husband’s wreck with semi

By The Trucker News Staff -

POSEY COUNTY, Indiana – Indiana State Police (ISP) arrested a man on Sept. 13 after he hit an 18-wheeler with his pickup on State Road 165 approximately a half-mile north of Interstate 64. In a report, ISP said that alcohol was a contributing factor. A short time later, ISP arrested the man’s wife after she hit her husband’s truck at the scene of the first wreck. ISP said that alcohol was a contributing factor in that accident as well. The 18-wheeler driver wasn’t injured. Donald Ricketts, 56, had called his wife, Cheral Ricketts, 55, to pick him up from the scene before police arrived, the ISP report said. He had driven his 2019 Nissan Frontier across the center line and struck the big rig on the driver’s side of the cab, according to the report. When officers arrived on scene, Donald and Cheral Ricketts both “displayed signs of impairment and failed field sobriety tests,” the report said. Cheral Ricketts was taken to Deaconess Gibson Hospital by Indiana State Police, where a preliminary test revealed she had a BAC of .22%. In Indiana, anything at .08% or above makes it illegal to drive a passenger vehicle. She was later taken to the Posey County Jail, where she is currently being held on bond. Donald Ricketts was also taken to Deaconess Gibson Hospital, where a preliminary test revealed he had a BAC of .28%.  He was admitted for a medical issue that is not life-threating.