BCTA Chief Thanks Truck Drivers

BCTA Chief Thanks Truck Drivers
By Rolf Lockwood, Posted: Sep 1, 2013 11:21 PM | Last Updated: Sep 1, 2013 11:23 PM

LANGLEY, BC -- National Trucking Week began today, meant as a time to appreciate the role of trucking in Canadian life, and particularly to applaud the skill and professionalism of its drivers. Many will have comments to make but we thought Louise Yako, president & CEO of the BC Trucking Association, was especially cogent. Here's what she wrote, unedited:

"The BC Trucking Association (BCTA) calls truck drivers 'professional drivers' to emphasize that people who drive for a living develop a skill set and pride in their work that sets them apart from those of us who don’t. Whether it gets official recognition as a skilled trade or not, navigating a semi-trailer combination requires not only technical acumen, but also patience, commitment and problem-solving skills. I know because I’ve tried it, and I’ll never possess the right skills.

"To mark National Trucking Week, which runs this year from September 1 to 7, BCTA would like to extend sincere thanks to professional drivers across British Columbia and those who work with them and support them at home. Day in and day out, professional drivers deliver the necessities of life and more, including everything from groceries to smart phones, to meet the demands of the communities they service. And they carry out their work so efficiently that few of us ever suffer the want of an item we need simply because a truck arrived late.

"Whether we continue to receive that level of service may be in question. The trucking industry needs large numbers of qualified drivers, and soon. According to the Conference Board of Canada, the average age of industry drivers in 2011 was 46. Far fewer young drivers are taking up a job that used to be number one for men in Canada. When you combine growing demand for road transportation services with driver retirements and other factors over the next seven years, projections are that for-hire carriers will be short 25,000 to 33,000 drivers nationwide by 2020.

"How can we address such a gap? BCTA and our fellow trucking associations across Canada have been defining and implementing strategies for a number of years, including to support the hiring of skilled immigrants and development of entry-level driver training (including a high school program starting in September 2014 at the NorKam Trades Centre of Excellence in Kamloops). We can’t miraculously fill those 33,000 seats. To do that will take the co-operation, effort and vision of motor carriers, governments and the public generally, because what it may come down to is respect for the profession and the men and women who choose it.

"The trucking industry is recognizing that to attract new candidates, it needs to embed a set of core values into operations and acknowledge that without drivers, the industry can’t exist. Drivers need predictable weekly pay, competitive compensation packages, and fair recompense for reasonable expenses on the road. Quality of life matters, and carriers can support it by defending a driver’s time and health from uncertain schedules, including avoidable delays at choke points like shippers’ loading docks and terminals. Looking ahead, support from government and industry for a mandatory entry-level training standard for drivers will increase the profession’s prestige and better define the skill set that qualified drivers must have. Nothing equals on-road experience, but new entrants to the profession and prospective employers should both have confidence that training will start them off strong.

"Smart carriers are already implementing strategies to support and retain their drivers, including additional company training, driver wellness programs and incentives for saving fuel (which also has documented safety benefits) and recognition for long service.

"Why does the public need to be involved? Professional drivers share the road with vehicles of all types, but driving a big rig is nothing like driving a passenger car. Heavy trucks take longer to get up to speed, are hard to stop once there, and need more room to maneuver. Professional drivers are trained to deal with the particular requirements of their vehicles. There’s a lot to respect in the skill and presence of mind a professional driver needs to operate his or her truck on heavily congested highways and city truck routes, and the best thing other drivers can do to is give them room – lots of it – and grant them some patience. We are all the ultimate beneficiaries of their work.

"Driving is a fine and necessary profession. Kudos during National Trucking Week 2013 to those who practise it safely every day in BC and to all those in the industry who work alongside them."

The BCTA represents more than 1,200 truck and motor coach fleets and over 250 suppliers to the industry. Members, it says, employ some 26,000 people and generate over $2 billion in revenue annually in the province.

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The 7 Biggest Mistakes by CDL Students and New Drivers - Sep 15,2010

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Truck Drivers to Face Stricter DOT Medical Exams

Pro Trucker - Ed Webb

Truck driver, Ed Webb learned first-hand how states are increasing their attention to the testing of sleep apnea. After being woken up by an Indiana state trooper when he heard snoring coming from the truck, he found himself being audited by the State of Indiana.

Although Webb is quick to mention that CPAP treatment has “changed my life,” his story of how he arrived there shows a growing trend by the states in becoming more aggressive in their approach to drivers who may suffer from the sleep apnea condition.

Mr. Webb joined us on Truth About Trucking “LIVE” on Wednesday, June 22nd to share his story.

Ed was featured in the June, 2011 issue of Truckers News Magazine cover story, Medically Certified, and senior editors Max Kvidera and Todd Dills were also our guests, discussing their examination of medical certification regulations at both the Federal and State levels.

Todd Dills

Max Kvidera

Webb’s story is a case in point to increased state-level attention to the sleep apnea condition – the state of Indiana audits the treatment of drivers with sleep apnea, as he found out in November of 2009.

If you missed the live broadcast, you can catch it here, as we discussed how stricter DOT medical examinations will be placing the professional truck driver under more scrutiny and examine the possibilities of the states getting between the licensed physician and the driver.

© 2011, AskTheTrucker. All rights reserved.

: DOT medical exam, Ed Webb, max kvidera, medical certification regulations, sleep apnea, sleep apnea auditing, testing, todd dills, truck drivers, truckers news, trucking

Tagged with: DOT medical exam • Ed Webb • max kvidera • medical certification regulations • sleep apnea • sleep apnea auditing • testing • todd dills • truck drivers • truckers news • trucking

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Truck Drivers in Shanghai Plan to Resume Protests

“This is really small money,” one truck owner said of the city’s concessions in an interview Sunday. He asked not to be named because he feared the government would punish him.

“The real problem is high oil prices and the way the government has cheated us with fines and extra fees,” he said. “The whole system stinks.”

The huge demonstrations that took place here last week, with as many as 2,000 drivers, disrupted one of this city’s biggest ports. Some protesters threw rocks, smashed windows and even tried to overturn police cars.

Several truck drivers were arrested after scuffles with the police, witnesses said, while others were detained for questioning.

Shanghai officials could not be reached for comment on Sunday and a spokeswoman for the Shanghai Port did not answer her cellphone.

On Sunday, police cars were stationed in the city’s port districts and operations seemed normal. But some truck drivers who participated in the protests said that many trucks were idled because the owners wanted to express dissatisfaction with the government.

“You can see a lot of abandoned trucks along the roads nearby,” said another driver, who declined to be named. “A lot of truck owners are doing that to show they don’t like the system.”

The demonstrations last week were the latest sign of growing unease in China about soaring inflation. People in many parts of the country say their incomes can no longer keep pace with rising food, energy and housing prices.

Some evidence of the problem came just over a week ago, when China said its consumer price index — its main gauge of inflation — rose 5.4 percent in March, its biggest increase in 32 months.

Beijing has promised to make fighting inflation its No. 1 priority this year. In recent months, the government has announced a raft of new anti-inflation measures, including a tightening of bank credit and offers of subsidies to farmers and taxi drivers.

But the moves do not appear to be working well. Food prices jumped 11.7 percent in March, and energy prices continue to climb.

The government recently raised the price of gasoline to keep it in line with global oil prices. That move set off the truck protest in Shanghai, which is similar to a taxi driver protest a few years ago in the city of Chongqing in central China.

In that protest, Chongqing officials quickly offered concessions, apparently because the government did not want the demonstrations to spread.

Several other cities followed by offering their own taxi subsidies.

The truck drivers and owners protesting in Shanghai seem to be hoping for a similar outcome. Some complain that the Shanghai government recently offered local taxi drivers $36 to $70 a month in fuel subsidies, while ignoring companies owned by truck drivers, most of whom are not Shanghai residents.

“Why is the city giving so much money to the taxicab drivers?” the first truck owner asked Sunday. “We are transporting goods for the export market and helping the country. Taxicabs are a luxury. Many of their customers can take a bus or subway.”

Another common complaint is that state-owned companies are reporting record profits, mostly in industries where they operate monopolies. As state companies, critics say, they should lower prices and give bigger benefits to the people.

On Sunday afternoon a group of truck drivers and owners gathered at a depot to complain about the government’s policies, saying that the local police impose stiff fines for small infractions and that the city’s port operators often demand bribes to process shipments.

Many of the drivers said they were organizing through text messages. And they vowed to smash the windows of drivers — or even harm them — if they tried to pass the blockades.

Several drivers said the police had taken down their cellphone and license plate numbers and used police dogs to harass organizers. But they said they were teaming up to demand that the government reduce fees and put an end to corruption and mistreatment of trucking companies.

One driver shared a poem he said the demonstrators were passing around. It read, in part: “We borrowed money to buy a truck to earn a living; not knowing that making money is this difficult; we endured all the bitterness and rudeness; submitting to all the mistreatment with flattering smiles; those who wear the clothes of the government hold all the power; and they look upon us with unsightly donkey faces; like we owe them money for a sacrificial offering.”

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Raising Awareness is Key to Truck Drivers Issues

Banner by: TheKeysTruckers.com

I often hear from truck drivers who refer to themselves as a “voice in the wilderness.” When you look at the general public as a whole, they have no clue about the struggles and governmental bureaucracy that drivers face on a daily basis.

During our most recent broadcast on Truth About Trucking “LIVE” while we were discussing crime against truckers, a listener from Pennsylvania called in who happened to be a law enforcement officer.  He was totally shocked to discover that drivers were experiencing such crimes in their work place.  Even as a police officer . . . he had no idea.

Be it the general public, a police officer or even the national news media, as professional truck drivers we cannot cast blame on those who have no understanding of what life on the road is all about.  Like in the case of the Pennsylvania officer . . . the “outside world” is simply unaware.

Utilizing the tools to raise awareness of an issue can bring about valuable reform.  In the political world, crimes against humanity can be hidden away for years until one day, one person steps forward with a blog post or YouTube video and suddenly brings awareness to the situation.  If awareness is never built upon and given the opportunity to grow in numbers and strength, a particular issue can lie dormant for years.

As in the case of human trafficking, we have seen a surge of unity brought about by Chapter 61 Ministries and Truckers Against Trafficking, raising awareness of a serious issue that many truck drivers were blind to.  The first step to unity and changing those issues that are destructive to a way of life . . . is raising awareness.

Somebody once told me that when the Great American Trucking Show was first launched in 1999, less than 1,000 people attended.  I do not know if this is fact or rumor, but I do know that in 2010, GATS pulled in 46,732 visitors.

When the Mid-America Trucking Show came around in 1972, they saw a total attendance of 4,000 visitors.  In March of 2011, MATS saw an attendance of 76,566 trucking enthusiasts.   Through the years, these two shows continue to grow in numbers, all geared toward the overall trucking industry.

The 1st Annual Truck Driver Social Media Convention can lead to the point where drivers are no longer a “voice in the wilderness.” As we have seen with the two major trucking shows in the country, what began with a few can grow into thousands, drawing attention and awareness through-out the national news media.  Unlike trucking shows and expos, an Annual Truck Driver Convention will raise awareness to the professional truck driver.

For years, truckers have discussed among themselves the restrictions and regulations placed on them that further damage their livelihood.  Talking among each other in truck stops, rest areas and at shippers and receivers warehouse docks, fails to bring public or media awareness to the issues.

A convention for truckers, growing in strength and numbers year after year, addressing issues and discussing solutions, will undoubtedly catch the attention of the trucking industry, media, and the general public, raising  awareness and respect for the professional truck driver…a voice to be reckoned with.

As drivers join together, uniting to create awareness, there are many watching, wondering what the effects of 550 motivated and unified drivers can accomplish.  They are wondering if their unity will catch the attention of those who never before listened… or even cared.

They are watching and wondering if our goal to unite and raise awareness regarding the industry issues will be successful.  Without a doubt, I know they are watching, and although many are excited and enthused, there are also many who are intimidated by the possibilities and accomplishments that can be achieved from such an event and driver unity. This is an indicator that as drivers, we are on the right track.

Join us in October.  Let’s make a statement.  Let’s make a difference.  Let’s make history . . . unite and be a part of the 1st Annual Truck Driver Social Media Convention.  ” Raising the Standards of the Trucking Industry”

Display your Unity on FaceBook by clicking the “I am attending” button on the  EVENT PAGE

© 2011, AskTheTrucker. All rights reserved.

: chapter 61 ministries, GATS, Great American Trucking Show, MATS, Mid-America Trucking Show, social media convention, truck driver, truck driver convention, truckers against trafficking, trucking, trucking show, trucking social media, truth about trucking

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Truck Drivers Can Shape Industry One Pen at a Time

Jason's Law - Call to Action

During his address to Congress on August 12th, 1974, Gerald Ford said, “A government big enough to supply you with everything you need, is a government big enough to take away everything that you have.”

As our nation’s truck drivers face stricter regulations, one has to consider if truck driving can still be a viable career.  We are called professionals, yet we are labeled as unskilled by the U. S. Department of Labor.

Career is defined as “an individual’s course or progress through life.” Is long-haul trucking a career or is it simply another job?

I can remember when trucking was fun and CDL training was when you jumped in the truck and taught yourself.  I remember when ten drivers would stop along the road to help one trucker with a busted water hose and I can remember when the CB radio was the best tool for passing the miles away with thought provoking conversation and laughter.  I can not remember the exact time when truck drivers turned on truck drivers.

Talk among drivers concerning a major strike in the United States has been going on for years.  We have seen a few drivers strike with a 100 here or 500 there, but it is time to get pass the truck driver strike rhetoric.  A U. S. nationwide trucker strike will never happen, nor should it.  It could prove to be a horrendous act that would spin a country further down, what is already an economic chaos.  Truck drivers in America can do more to shape the industry standards to fit their needs than executing a strike.

They can do so through action.  Not action by force, but action first noted by Greek poet Euripides, who died around 406 B.C. when he said, “The tongue is mightier than the blade.” Through the writings of  Edward Bulwer-Lytton from the 1839 play, Richelieu, it has become better known as, “The pen is mightier than the sword.”

The FMCSA is accepting comments from truck drivers and industry execs concerning the implementation of speed limiters on all heavy duty trucks.  With approximately four million CDL drivers in the U. S. and another four million CDL holders, you would think that eight million people could flood the comment page to capacity.  Yet, at last count, only about 4,000 comments had been received.  This works out to be a response rate of only 0.0005 per cent.  Why would the industry regulators listen when basically nobody is responding?  Furthermore, these so-called 4,000 comments were largely from a form letter by some safety group organization, where many simply copied and pasted to the comment section, giving an appearance of 4,000 comments.  Politically motivated . . .

We can stand around at the shippers and receivers, we can sit together at our favorite truck stop or gather in the rest areas and talk about the over regulations of the industry and what its doing to the American truck driver, but nothing will change to better the industry for drivers unless we actually take the time to get involved and use the system as it was meant to be used.

How to submit comments to the FMCSA

To assist drivers in preparing comments submitted to the FMCSA, Truckers for a Cause, former FMCSA administrator John Hill and OOIDA regulatory affairs specialist Joe Raikovacz held a live conference call for drivers on Saturday, January 22nd, 2011 at 12:00 noon, Central Standard Time.

This was a live conference webinar meeting where drivers were able to ask questions and learn more about the best way to submit comments to the FMCSA.  The call was recorded and is available through the meeting archives at the Truckers for a Cause website.

Truck drivers need to come together and use the tool that is more powerful than any strike could summon . . . pick up the pen.

© 2011, AskTheTrucker. All rights reserved.

: career, FMCSA, fmcsa comments, ooida, speed limiters, strike, truck driving, truckers for a cause

Tagged with: career • FMCSA • fmcsa comments • ooida • speed limiters • strike • truck driving • truckers for a cause

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Truck Drivers Life Expectancy Rate – Where’s the Proof?

For years, we have heard that truck drivers have a life expectancy rate that is ten to sixteen years shorter than the average person.  The phrase, “studies have shown” is all across the internet and publications alike.  The problem however, is the inability to locate the actual studies.  The FMCSA, along with Secretary of Transportation, Ray LaHood, have both stated that truckers live 16 years shorter than the average population.

Comments such as this are largely attributed to a “study” performed by Dr. Moore-Ede, a professor at Harvard Medical School for 23 years.  The only problem is . . . Dr. Moore-Ede never performed such a study.

There have been other “studies” as well which have concluded that professional truck drivers suffer from various health issues such as hypertension, diabetes, low back pain and ulcers.  There is no disputing the effects of a life in trucking and its toll it takes on the human body.  However, there is no such study that I have ever been able to locate that specifically details any findings to conclude the lower life expectancy rate for truck drivers.  Thankfully, that may be changing . . .

A $2.6-million study is being funded by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association over three years, and will be conducted by Michel Johnson, a New Brunswick professor.  Johnson, who has stated, “Trucking companies are worried about losing experienced drivers in the prime of their life due to health problems”, will examine the health habits of 1,000 truck drivers in Atlantic Canada, and notes that it will be the largest study of its kind in the world.   It is good to know that trucking companies are “worried” about us . . .

I have a problem with these so-called studies.  It seems that the money involved always leads to the desired results wanted.  We have seen doctored studies and results before in this country by the FMCSA such as the sleep apnea studies which we reported on in our Sleep Apnea Mandate post.  Most recently, a report by Edgeworth Economics found that the FMCSA used questionable data in an attempt to justify its proposed changes to the HOS rules.  In a report by Truckers News Magazine, an Edgeworth spokesperson stated, “Many of FMCSA’s new approaches rely on misapplication of available data, use outdated information or lack empirical support entirely.”

With reports flying all over the place stating that truck drivers now have a life expectancy of 61 years . . . I just do not buy it.  Logic tells us all that the lifestyle of the professional trucker is one of poor eating habits, lack of exercise and terrible sleep habits.  The majority of health problems that truck drivers face are largely due to poor diet and the lack of proper rest and sleep.

Between the years of 1992 and 1996, nearly 3,000 truckers died due to work related issues.  During this same time period, truck drivers experienced the most fatalities of all vocations, resulting in a recorded 12% of all work-related deaths.  In 1995, U. S. truckers also experienced more non-fatal injuries than workers in any other occupation, a number reaching over 150,000.

If truck drivers are living shorter lives than others, is it because of health issues associated with the trucking lifestyle, or is it due more to the dangers and hazards of life on the road or a combination of the two?  Hopefully, this new “study” will settle the truck driver life expectancy rate once and for all and will not doctor the numbers to satisfy desired results.

My next question would be, “What will the benefits be from this study?” In the past, when I have brought up the work-load placed on drivers, the response I received from some trucking companies have been, “Well, find another job.” If the study does prove for once and for all, that truck drivers live shorter lives, will the FMCSA place further regulations on companies and drivers for the sake of their health?

The lifestyle of the professional trucker is obviously the culprit for poor health, but will this new study change anything?  Will truck stops change their menus toward a healthier food choice?  Will companies stop pushing their drivers beyond human capabilities?  How will the results of the study prevent truck drivers from receiving an average of five hours sleep per day?  Will the results actually change the trucker’s lifestyle?

Of course drivers have health issues . . . look at the lifestyle, but these professionals have chosen the lifestyle and accept the complications in order to provide for their families.  Health problems come with the job, but I for one, would like to finally see an actual study proving that their life expectancy is 16 years shorter than the average person.  If so, and the study is completely unbiased and accurate, I will then like to see what the industry has in mind to improve the lifestyle of the professional trucker;  or they can just send me the $2.6 million and I’ll provide the answers to the “study” in about ten minutes.

© 2011, AskTheTrucker. All rights reserved.

: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association, FMCSA, life expectancy, sleep apnea, study, truck drivers

Tagged with: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency • Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association • FMCSA • life expectancy • sleep apnea • study • truck drivers

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Truck Drivers with Diabetes – How High is too High?

Blood Sugar 210

Sites all across the internet are showing that qualification for a CDL truck driver requires a blood sugar reading of less than 200.  I would like for someone, anyone,  to provide me with the link to the regulation that actually shows this to be the case.

According to the FMCSA under Part § 391.41, an applicant is qualified to operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle if he or she :  “Has no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of diabetes mellitus currently requiring insulin for control.”

Again, we must note that truck drivers requiring insulin may still be able to drive under the Federal Diabetes Exemption Program.

Nowhere in the regulations, that I can find, does it specifically state that a commercial truck driver’s blood sugar must be under 200.  Many sites report that the 200 minimum is listed on the CDL Medical Examination Report, which I found to be false as well.

According to Barnes Care, an occupational medicine facility, new DOT Medical Guidelines went into effect on September 30th, 2004.  They note that a CMV driver’s blood sugar reading must:

Maintain a fasting blood sugar of 140 or below or . . .Maintain a 2 hour postprandial blood sugar of 200 or less or . . .Maintain glycosylated hemoglobin of 8 percent or less

Word has it that the FMCSA will be moving away from the urinalysis test for sugar and will be going to the A1C blood testing.  Currently, the American Diabetes Association recommends an A1C reading of under 7% for those with diabetes, but actual guidelines for the CDL truck driver has not been established.

The “normal” range for blood sugar is typically 70-100 fasting and not over 135-140 after a meal.

Still, actual blood sugar levels required for CMV qualifications are not listed anywhere within the Federal Motor Carrier Regulations that I can find;  only the mention of diabetes mellitus. So where is the “under 200? figure coming from?

Speaking with a local Diabetes Center, I was told that blood sugar readings had the following meaning:

70-140 = normal140-160 = elevated160-200 = high200 and above = dangerous

Anyone with an actual link to the FMCSA regulation showing that qualifying CDL truck drivers must show a blood sugar level of under 200, please provide the link through our “comment” page.

© 2011, AskTheTrucker. All rights reserved.

: A1C blood testing, blood sugar, blood sugar level 210, CDL truck driver qualifications, diabetes, diabetes exemption, FMCSA, insulin diabetes, truck driver, trucking

Tagged with: A1C blood testing • blood sugar • blood sugar level 210 • CDL truck driver qualifications • diabetes • diabetes exemption • FMCSA • insulin diabetes • truck driver • trucking

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World Truck Drivers Message to America: Stand Up for Your Rights

World Truck Drivers

Truck drivers around the world are closely watching how new regulations are impacting the U. S. trucking industry and the driver.  More specifically, they are monitoring the actions from the American trucker.  Our internet talk radio show, Truth About Trucking “LIVE” continues to grow with tens of thousands of listeners around the globe.  At last count, we have confirmed a regular listening audience through out nine countries and receive hundreds of emails from truck drivers around the world.

What we have learned from communicating with these fellow truckers from all points around the planet is that their needs and wants are not much different from our own, here in the United States.  They look for better pay, decent hours and working conditions and the opportunity to support themselves and their families.  Above all else, they seek for less governmental control over their lives and their trucking livelihood.

The purpose of this post is to share what truck drivers from around the world are telling me what they see as happening to the American truck driver and what they suggest American truckers should do about it.  I have spent hundreds of hours through emails and phone calls discussing and listening to many of these world truck drivers;  drivers from Brazil, Argentina, Romania, Poland, the Ukraine, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Sydney and Melbourne to name a few.   From Egypt, Greece, Spain and around the globe, world truck drivers are eager to voice their thoughts and opinions on the current state of the U. S. trucking industry.

They are not being critical.  They have already fought through what American drivers are facing today and they fear that we are heading down the same road.  Their message for American truck drivers comes through very clear . . . stand up for your rights!

Here are some comment examples I have received from truck drivers around the globe and their personal message to the American trucker:

Spain :

We are concerned about the actions taken by the truck drivers of your country. Why do they not fight back over government interaction and let their voices rise up together as one?  Do they believe that they can not win against such power?  We have seen the corruption of our own government wishing to push us further down by high cost of diesel.  In 2008, we came together, 90,000 strong to show our government that this was wrong.  America must do the same.  You will lose at times, but you will also win at times.  Truck drivers stand together as one.

Greece :

There is no group of industry that wishes to strike against their own government or country.  Sometimes it is the only action to be taken.  Many of us here in Greece dream of someday being to work in America.  For most, the dream will never come.  We are often puzzled by the lack of involvement that American truck drivers show in countering the regulatory bureaucracy that is being placed upon them.  We would like to tell them to stand together and to show their government where the power really lies.

Britain :

As my countrymen join together to battle our own government against the working conditions we face here in Britain, I wanted to say to the American trucker to not give in.  Do not sit idle and allow regulations to destroy your very livelihood.  You are millions strong.  Stand together and show your might as your British trucking friends have done.

France :

We have followed with interest the CSA, discussion on HOS rules, emission controls, EOBR’s and other such issues facing your country’s trucking environment.  We wonder how government can rule so heavily over such a free nation?  Where are the American drivers?  Do they speak out on such control?  Here in my country, over 600,000 truck drivers stood side by side to protest low pay and ultimately we won.  We say to our fellow drivers in America, use the power of your own legislation to overcome.  You do not have to strike, but stand together and fight.  Fight for your American rights.

South Africa :

In my country, a truck driver job is a dream for many, even though it can be very dangerous.  You are careful how you act and what you say.  Yet, in South Africa, we were not defeated so much where we did not stand up and fight for higher pay.  We have seen our share of turmoil through history and will continue to do so, I am certain.  What I would give to live in America and travel its glorious highways.  If you never exercise your God-given rights and those rights under humanity, how will you ever defeat those who wish to defeat you?   Have Americans given up and are they too weary to fight big government?  I say NO!  Not in America.

Norway :

In Norway, there are no truck owner operators, only company drivers.  Fifteen years ago Norway had owner operators such as in America.  Then the government began to restrict the independents with over regulating.  Because of this, independent truck drivers were phased out completely. The larger trucking companies were the only ones who had enough trucks to stay in business and remain profitable.  This allowed them to have the capability to monopolize and acquire business contracts doing away with any brokers for in-country ground logistics.  They have predominance over import and exports, coming in and out of Norway via ground freight.

So as a result there are only company drivers in this country.  Here in Norway, we are very aware of what is going on in the U. S. trucking industry. Unless American drivers stand up for their rights, we fear the same will happen in your country. Let me share with you what Norwegians believe is happening to the American truck driver:

The theory is that due to NAFTA, and the attempt to prevent the Mexican truck drivers from operating in the United States, regulators have implemented changes setting up hurtles for the competitors down south.This will negatively impact the smaller trucking companies by limiting their productivity.This is a mechanism for government to create revenue by enforcing imposed regulatory changes.Large trucking companies will stand to benefit from these new regulatory implementations.This will position the larger companies to be absolute leaders in the industry allowing a stronger position to run the industry as they see fit.

We want to tell our American friends that they must act and save their profession for themselves.  We encourage you to not allow the regulating authorities to dictate changes to your industry. Do not make the same mistakes that we did, granting government the power to help the large trucking companies in monopolizing the industry!

If changes take place in America by putting the owner operator as a minority, then you will have to accept a large part of the blame for not pushing the trucking unions and/or associations in demanding changes in your favor.  We encourage U. S. truck drivers to learn from the world truck drivers and if you must, stop driving.  You must block ports of entry to America and its cities.  You must prove that without truckers America will halt completely. You must make the authorities acutely aware of the devastating impact of hurting the American truck driver and the industry. You must act and stand up for your rights in exercising free industry.

We offer our thoughts in friendship, as we feel that Americans have become complacent and have lost their independent fighting spirit against government and large special interests.  We believe there is a lack of cohesion and solidarity among the individual truckers of America, the unions and the leaders within the industry.  We tell you this, not to be critical or in judgment, but because we have seen this happen in our own country and countries of the world.

Remember, independent owner operators are an element of the industry which keeps large trucking companies on check.  They are a form of competition which functions as an indicator of fair and competitive business practices among large companies by having the ability to change companies at their leisure, going to those trucking companies who’s business practices are mindful of the drivers interests.   We fear these over regulations by your government is just the beginning to a complete takeover of the industry, placing the larger companies in control and phasing out the entrepreneurial spirit of America, as we have seen in Norway.

There is much more we will be discussing on this post and our Blog Talk Radio program in the future, including facts on NAFTA such as larger trucking companies using NAFTA as a means of “legal” tax evasion and the truth about the United States and Mexico NAFTA corruption.  For now, truck drivers from around the world share one common message to the American trucker: stand up for your rights.

After all, what will America do when the big rigs don’t roll?

© 2011, AskTheTrucker. All rights reserved.

: company driver, FMCSA, NAFTA, owner operator, strike, talk radio, tax evasion, teamsters, truck driver rights, truck drivers, trucking, trucking companies, union

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Filed under: Jobs and Careers • Politics • Talk Radio Show • Truck Driving Jobs • otr trucking • trucking • trucking blogs • trucking companies • trucking life

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Going For A Commercial Drivers License?

CDL or Commercial Drivers License is the authority in the road. Regardless of your status, you are required to pass the CDL test. Besides, no one will hire you to be their bus driver or truck driver if you have not passed the CDL test. It's a prerequisite for every individual who would want to engage on the life in the road. Besides, it's one of the ways that government can determine one's capabilities in handling the challenging situations on the road.

Commercial drivers license or CDL test is purposely implemented by the government to check on the individual's capability of safe driving to eradicate serious road accidents. This test will determine if an individual can really handle heavy situations on the road. This will not only check on the objective knowledge of an individual in terms of driving but also on the individual's capability to adjust on some unpredictable road events.

When you pass the CDL test then you will be authorized to operate any types of vehicle with vehicle weight rating of approximately 26,000 pounds. This will give you an opportunity to handle tow trucks, heavy trucks and buses. So, what are the benefits that you can anticipate when you have commercial drivers license? Is it really necessary to pass CDL test?

When people hear the word drivers license, they would automatically think of truck drivers or any other types of tow truck drivers but having drivers license on hand is far more comprehensive than that. When you have an authenticated commercial drivers license, a lot of career opportunities are waiting for you. And the best example is when you are applying to work for a construction company.

Most of the construction companies today would prefer to hire someone who has CDL on hand. It would be a great advantage for them if their employees can drive or carry heavy vehicles like tractor trailers and other heavy trucks. Some construction companies even included drivers license as one of their requirements before hiring a worker.

In simple terms, when CDL is in your possession, you can freely move to any direction you please. You get to have the freedom that other individuals do not have. You get to experience driving vehicles that ordinary people can't handle. It's an exquisite experience that other ordinary people can't thoroughly enjoy. You can choose and even ask for a raise if you have unique capabilities.

Fortunately, you can attain CDL and pass its test with just a little training. As long as you know what you are talking about then you can overcome the CDL tester with ease. You just have to learn everything as much as possible to pass the test. So, grab that shirt and get to find the right trainer to accompany you in learning everything that you need. As long as you can find a great and effective trainer, you can be confident in facing CDL testers and you can prepare yourself for the real deal on the heavy road outside.

WinnipegTruckRepair.com is your local Truck Repair Blog for the Winnipeg Manitoba area with tips, tricks, and service garage professionals at RamWinn Diesal Inc. to help you on your way. Visit http://www.winnipegtruckrepair.com/43/trailer-service/trailer-service-mistakes-you-can%E2%80%99t-ignore/ for more details.

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Safety Rules for Protecting Truck Drivers While on the Road

Truck drivers are instrumental in transporting merchandise cross-country from one area to another. Without them, the economy would virtually come to a stop. The high number of truckers on the road makes safety a primary issue, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration or FMCSA strives to keep them as safe as possible by implementing safety rules and regulations. All truckers need to consider road safety as a job requirement, and avoid situations that put safety in question. One of the primary reasons for semi accidents is driver fatigue.

The wages of a driver translates into deadlines and quotas, so many tend to stay behind the wheel too long without rest. Law regulates the hours of driving time and the hours of rest required for a trucker. Drivers are required to keep logbooks with back up receipts as a means of enforcement. Some truckers circumvent or falsify the records because the faster they move cargo the more money they make. However, most of them realize the importance of safety on the job. In order to overcome fatigue some drivers use prescription drugs, over the counter medications or other types of stimulants to stay awake.

Instead of avoiding the problem, drugs compound the problem decreasing safety, so laws require motor carrier companies to randomly drug test their employees. A distracted driver is dangerous to everyone on the road. Sending a text or internet surfing, watching DVDs, or attempting to operate a laptop while driving, causes many accidents. Although truckers spend many hours in their rigs, they should not become comfortable enough to entertain themselves in this manner. Vehicle maintenance is high on the list of controllable causes of accidents.

Fluids, hoses and tires need checked every time the vehicle stops to fuel. Tires need examined closely due to the time spent on the road along with the changing weather conditions a tractor-trailer can encounter during one delivery. Brakes are another controllable reason for accidents caused by mechanical failure. Trucks have to rely heavily on their braking system, especially in mountainous terrain. Slowing a truck with a full load, going down a steep incline puts extensive stress on the system. Truckers know that driving a big rig is much different than driving a car with a bigger chance of causing injury or death in an accident.

Unsafe truck driving practices should not exist. A semi cannot react as quickly as a car in any situation. It takes longer to increase and decrease speed and takes more room at intersections to make a turn. The trucks blind spot is larger than the one on a car and speeding increases the already lengthy reaction time. A load of shifting weight exaggerates the movements of a truck, so extra caution needs observed when hauling shifting cargo. Every action that puts a car at risk of an accident also puts a truck at risk with possibly tragic results.

As with any motor vehicle on a public roadway, the person driving a semi must always be aware of other motorists that are inattentive or reckless. Watching out for other unsafe drivers can often prevent accidents. Those who transport cargo, whether local or long distance are responsible for evenly distributing the weight as much as possible and safely securing their load. The use of tie downs straps and tarps help obtain this goal.

Drivers need to make a concerted effort to get sufficient rest, eat right, and get physical exercise to maintain a level of physical fitness that assists in staying mentally alert. In an accident, truck drivers are at risk of serious injury or death, so seat belts should be in use and a fire extinguisher kept in the cab of the truck. Driving tractor-trailers takes skill and carries a huge responsibility with it, so no one should ever consider it a routine job. Regular use of safety precautions tops the list for doing it successfully.

When a large truck crashes with a passenger-sized automobile, the results are often catastrophic. Even a minor impact from a semi truck accident will result in a huge impact on a passenger vehicle. Huge impact equals serious, sometimes permanent, injuries. Maryland injury lawyers will make sure that you and your family gets the reimbursement that you deserve. If you've been injured by a tractor trailer, call a Maryland truck accident attorney today.

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The 7 Biggest Mistakes by CDL Students and New Drivers - Sep 15,2010

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DAC Report for Truck Drivers - Jan 19,2010

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CSA 2010 Takes Aim at Truck Drivers - Aug 13,2010

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Attracting Quality Drivers for the Trucking Industry - Nov 18,2010

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Truck Drivers Homeless in America

Homeless in America

“I’ve been a truck driver for 9 years off and on, presently driving for XXXXX, all 48.  I am more in tune with homelessness as I am still homeless myself. Except for my truck, I have nowhere else to stay.”

The above comment is one of many from an unknown number of professional truck drivers running across America.  As many struggle with the current state of the economy, one facet that rarely receives mention is the fact that an unknown number of truckers would find themselves homeless if it were not for their truck.  Never has there been a study done on the reality of homelessness for our nation’s truckers.  Although one could argue that we are all just one pay check away from being homeless, how can this be a problem for those who work in the largest private sector industry in North America?

During the California port clean air regulations, hundreds of port truck drivers fought for their livelihood stating that the new regulations would simply be unaffordable.  Hundreds more expressed the reality that without their trucks, they would be homeless.  I recently received this email from a veteran truck driver who lost his job after being hit from behind by a 4-wheeler:

“I would like to know what is going on in this industry?  I have been driving for over 20 years and two months ago I was struck from behind by an idiot 4-wheeler.  I was legally stopped at a traffic light, waiting for the green light and next thing I know, this car hits me.  Three days later I was let go from my company due to a “preventable accident” which they eagerly placed on my DAC, and I have not been able to find work since.  I lived in my truck and I have no home, no car, no savings.  I always ran the loads and never complained.  I was a hard runner and would do whatever I was told.  At 47 I now find myself staying with some friends, basically homeless.”

How many professional truck drivers would be homeless if they were to lose their jobs tomorrow?

The major cause of homelessness in America is poverty.  The exact number of the homeless is difficult to say, due to the fact that so many wander the streets and easily slip into the nook and crannies across the country.  Statistics place the homeless in America at 2.5 million on any given day.  Single men make up the most majority at 60% and  families with young children comes in at 40%.   Currently, 1.3 million children are homeless in the most powerful country on Earth.  Women are becoming a growing trend in homelessness, with estimates reaching almost two-thirds.

The state of the economy has much to do with those who find themselves on the streets, but why would a professional truck driver, employed by what is touted as a high paying career, have to rely on their truck for a home?   A new driver recently called me and we spoke for about one hour.  He was thrilled about finally being hired by a trucking company after waiting six months after CDL training graduation.  The company, he told me, guaranteed him at least $25,000 per year.  Granted, 25K is better than zero, but is $25,000 per year a viable income for a life on the road?

The average long haul truck driver earns around $32,000 per year, during good times and of course, you will hear from those drivers remarking on their $200,000 plus income, but this is few and far between with many variables involved. It is also, not reality for most of the 1.3 million long haul truckers.   After expenses, many owner operators will earn the average of a company driver.

In 1996, my last year as an owner operator with Allied Van Lines, I grossed $160,000.   My expenses ran about 50%, so I was able to net approximately $80,000.  This was done by staying out 3-4 months at a time, with only two days off at home at each turn.  Times have changed since 1996, and there is a big difference between hauling household goods and general freight.  The majority of freight drivers earn nowhere near this high of an income and although there are a few that do, nobody can claim that this is standard for the industry.

For the hardworking truck driver that keeps America moving, none should ever find themselves in a position of facing homelessness.  As new regulations force trucking companies to shape up or ship out, veteran drivers are experiencing punishment from the very companies that have allowed them to operate in questionable practices in the first place. Where trucking companies allowed drivers to break regulations and turn the other way, the CSA has changed that.

The industry is on its kick again about a truck driver shortage.  There never has been, nor is there a truck driver shortage . . . there has been and still is a truck driver wage shortage.   A Florida based trucking company begins recent CDL graduates at .13 cents per mile.  A two year, safe driver is currently earning .27 cents per mile; the same companies that tell me that they are paying drivers as much as they can afford to pay, yet their net earnings for 2009 were $210,000,000.

Having owned several businesses, I am all for profit.  That is the only reason a business is in business, but I can not see the younger generation coming up the ranks in search of a truck driving career, unless these problems are dealt with.  What 20-something year old would want to live in a truck for $32,000 per year, along with the hardships that come with the trucking life?  The newer generation wants a college degree with a 9-5 job and the ability to play on the weekends.

The industry is hanging on due to the true-blooded, veteran driver and the industry is doing its best to weed these out of the system.   If professional truck drivers look to life on the road, spending months at a time away from home and family, living the life that very few can endure . . . homelessness should never be a worry.  Sadly and inexcusable,  for many . . . it is a reality.

© 2010, AskTheTrucker. All rights reserved.

: homeless, homelessness, truck driver wages, truck drivers, Truck Driving Jobs, Truckers, trucking, women

Tagged with: homeless • homelessness • truck driver wages • truck drivers • Truck Driving Jobs • Truckers • trucking • women

Filed under: Jobs and Careers • Politics • Safety • Truck Driving Jobs • Woman Truckers • otr trucking • truck driving schools • trucking • trucking blogs • trucking companies • trucking life

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