Stay up to date on trucking compliance.
Commercial trucking is a risk-prone industry that requires strict compliance to safety regulations and comprehensive risk management strategies to protect both cargo and employees. Trucking and fleet management companies must consider risks such as driver safety and retention, vehicle breakdowns, adverse weather, bad road conditions, and much more. Staying up to date on current Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) trucking industry regulations is also critical, as companies can be penalized for failing to comply.
Find news and developments regarding trucking risk and compliance below.
“A lot of carriers kind of look the other way,” Reliance Partners’ Robert Kaferle said. “I’ve heard it more times than I can count, ‘They’re a really good driver,’ but upon digging into their history and violations, you may find that they’re in need of some retraining.”
The convenience of GPS often overshadows its flaws. Double-check your route with the hard facts of a map.
Reliance Partners Director of Safety Robert Kaferle makes it clear that safety consulting in most cases helps rather than hurts premiums.
Nearly 25 years to the day of his accident, Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels recalls the crash that altered his driving habits and the emotional scars that it left on those affected.
CFO Thom Albrecht doesn’t think the lumber shortage has been “that big of a deal” for flatbed carriers.
Turning to younger drivers may be the key to assuring the success of the next generation of truckers.
Compliance reviews can catch any motor carrier off guard. Reliance Partners’ John Seidl encourages participation in mock audits to reveal and correct violations before the federal government does.
Bizarre actions behind the wheel during 2020 should raise alarm bells for truckers and fleets, survey’s author says.
The cyberattack that temporarily shut down the Colonial Pipeline this month serves as a stark reminder that all industries are prone to security threats.
“One click is all that’s required to buy the coverage needed for a load,” said Micah Keith, Reliance Partners’ senior director of sales. Securing shipper’s interest coverage has never been easier.
Truck Talk is a weekly newsletter providing background, context and perspective to the trucking industry.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels and Mark Barlar speak from their driver and State Patrol experience on the dangers that speed, distractions and fatigue present in construction zones.
Are you ready for next week’s International Roadcheck? Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels offers some tips to remain violation free.
Carriers continue to face fines and out-of-service violations because they don’t understand the difference between intrastate and interstate operating authority.
Reliance Partners’ Brandon Richards offers those new to the industry advice on auto liability policies — a prerequisite for every motor carrier.
Reliance Partners’ Thom Albrecht comments on the industry’s recovery efforts and job growth figures, as well as his thoughts on increasing driver pay.
Reliance Partners’ Kelly Teg and Arvin Castellanos detail the insurance basics of intermodal freight.
The FMCSA will still not disqualify a truck driver for failing a hair test for drug use.
Trucking’s ever-changing demographics make the thoughts and opinions of minority drivers increasingly an invaluable asset.
Drivers often take the blame for roadside violations, but remaining in compliance with regulations is a team effort that includes maintenance personnel and safety operations in a fleet.
As International Roadcheck 2021 quickly approaches, truck drivers need to prepare for the inspection process. Here are five tips J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. recommend drivers follow to make the process easier.
Sahej Singh steps through Reliance Partners’ usage-based and API insurance offerings for the transportation and logistics industry.
Automation will mitigate exposure created by process errors and duplication of efforts by integrating disparate systems.
“Take some time each week to clean out the cab, and stay on top of it, just like you would your house. It’s a healthier atmosphere to be in if it’s clean,” says Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels.
“A lot of truck drivers, just like law enforcement, don’t understand that girls in these types of situations are usually not there by their own will; there’s usually someone else behind the scenes compelling them to do it,” said Reliance Partners’ Mark Barlar.
In light of recent wind-related accidents, Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels advises truckers to check their weight, slow down and monitor weather reports before hitting the road.
Mark Vickers of Reliance Partners warns transportation providers of Mexico’s eye-opening insurance regulations, which he compares to the “Wild West.”
Trucking fleets that conduct only yearly reviews of driver records may miss signs of risky driver behavior that ultimately could put lives in jeopardy.
It’s hard to predict when and where ice will strike, but the magnitude of such events can be mitigated. Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels explains why it’s imperative that drivers slow down and increase their following distance during adverse conditions.
When it comes to risk mitigation, due diligence of the carriers you broker to is just as important to having the right insurance policies.
Reliance Partners’ Jordan Chastain suggests spending more time with a motor carrier before jumping into the world of independent driving.
Slips, trips and falls can bring about lifelong injuries for truckers, but thankfully, they’re easily preventable. Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels details basic safety tips around the truck and trailer.
Reliance Partners’ John Seidl explains that managers can avoid pestering drivers for their signatures altogether by simply using limited queries for their annual Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse checks.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels fears that relaxed regulations may result in an uptick in CDL fraud in driver schools.
The Geotab reseller segment will be the initial target for VideoProtects transport technology, which J. J. Keller has acquired.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels explains that driver trainers should be everything from instructor and mentor to trainer, psychologist and friend to their students.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels demonstrates how to chain up when winter weather strikes.
As trucking fleets reassess their safety programs for 2021 and the post-pandemic world, here are five steps they can take to reduce their risk exposure.
Early signs about the end of tight capacity begin to surface.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels says, “Communication between a driver and their fleet manager or safety department should be an open line for expressing what you want from them, but also what should they expect from you?”
Reliance Partners’ Mark Barlar details the steps drivers should take to mitigate the risk of igniting a cargo tank disaster.
Reliance Partners’ Nicole Guinn explains why you should never allow police to make towing arrangements on your behalf and the benefits of rental reimbursement coverage.
Although the pandemic has forced cutbacks in many areas, safety shouldn’t be one of them. In fact, fleets should invest more in safety compliance. Start by hiring a safety manager.
Runaway truck ramps are a trucker’s last resort. Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels reminds truckers that the best way to tackle the downhill drive is through preventative maintenance, obeying road signage and simply taking things slow.
Reliance Partners’ John Seidl touts the importance of understanding queries and advises drivers to steer clear of marijuana, regardless of what California or Colorado permits.
Life on the road isn’t for everyone — including dogs. Truckers should ask themselves whether their furry friend will enjoy life on the go.
Ransomware attacks have risen during the pandemic. Reliance Partners’ Jamie Cannon details how to protect your company immediately after an attack.
“The best way for drivers to protect themselves and their cargo is to always pay attention to where you are, what’s going on around you and ask yourself if your parking arrangement is as safe as you can make it,” said Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels.
Reliance Partners’ John Seidl shares thoughts on the latest HOS changes and explains the benefits of doing your regulatory homework.
“In the event of loss or damage, you may quickly discover all the gaps and loopholes in — and limits of — carrier liability.”
Phase 2 standards could tack thousands of dollars onto the cost of a new trailer.
As more and more consumers exchange the shopping mall for the mouse pad, the swift uptick in e-commerce has greatly benefited couriers, but can the sector sustain this trend?
Reliance Partners’ Jordan Chastain explains that controlled growth is the key to successful fleet scalability.
The move signals the beginning of what could be many — or maybe just a few — actions against employers for violations of virus-related rules
Reliance Partners’ Joe Schreiner explains that elevated CSA scores limit the markets available to you. Drivers and carriers alike can take steps to clean up their scores and help keep their premiums lower.
“Because of the efficiencies we’ve gained with the system, we’ve reduced our administrative labor costs by 33%,” Whisenant said.
Truckers continue to supply ravaged Gulf Coast communities despite paid opportunity elsewhere. What should drivers expect upon reaching hurricane-affected areas?
Never assume that your cargo policy is all-encompassing. Time and time again truckers learn far too late that their coverage form excludes their mainline cargo.
UPS Capital customers are able to go to an online portal 24/7 and submit claims for themselves.
A fresh start in trucking can be overwhelming and risky for those without prior experience. Reliance Partners’ Morgan Thomas details what new ventures can expect within their first years of operation.
Keller Trucking uses TCA benchmarking program to identify Best Practices and elevate profitability.
Anyone can be the target of an employment-related lawsuit; don’t think that because your motor carrier is small or lacks a formal office that the need for insurance diminishes.
Fatigue may not play as much of a role in risky driving behaviors, but how long a commercial driver has been driving does, according to new research.
President Trump signed an executive order deferring payroll taxes, but the money may have to be repaid at a later date, leaving companies wondering whether they should continue to withhold the tax or not.
Reliance Partners’ Nicole Guinn details the towing industry’s challenges and the factors driving insurance rates.
Most small-company truckers are equipped with ELDs despite exemptions.
Carriers urged to verify security safeguards from suppliers before installing devices.
“Nuclear verdicts are destroying the excess market. Until someone puts a leash on these lawsuits, I don’t see prices going down that’s for sure,” said Reliance Partner’s Joe Schreiner.
Truckers find themselves inadequately protected against COVID-19. Are you doing the most to protect your fleet?
Nuclear verdicts are on the rise, and two behind-the-scenes factors playing large roles are the emotional pleas plaintiffs’ attorneys are making to juries and the growing number of hedge funds that invest in civil lawsuits.
Workers’ comp doesn’t cover owner-operators but misclassifying a driver may prove otherwise at your expense.
Out-of-control insurance premiums are driving trucking operations out of business, but leading insurance experts say something can be done about them.
While hurricanes produce an abundance of freight-hauling opportunities, truckers should understand it’s best to hunker down before hitting the load boards.
Just because you don’t own the trailer doesn’t mean you’re exempt from its liabilities. Truckers should protect themselves with the proper insurance coverage.
Truck owners can respond to engine issues by repairing or replacing their troublesome trucks — or using them for spare parts.
Truckers have once again proved they can rise to any challenge. Motor carriers should reflect on COVID-19 to prepare themselves for the next time disaster strikes.
Seidl suggests that non-rated carriers are often better than those labeled satisfactory.
Ashley Hammonds of Reliance Partners cautions that buying a cheap older truck may have an inverse effect on insurance rates.
As car manufacturers resume production, the trickle-down effect may breathe new life into the hard-hit auto hauling industry.
The sudden increase of non-payments and defaults can quickly sink your transportation company.
Ransomware attacks are on the rise and transportation companies are a prime target.
Reefer is a hot trucking segment, but jumping in without considering proper insurance could freeze you in your path.
Relaxed regulations and insurance payment relief are certainly helping truckers, but many are also changing their mix of freight to insulate revenue.
Although April is no longer officially Distracted Driving Awareness Month, drivers of all kinds should focus on preventing this deadly issue
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s emergency declarations extend far beyond hours of service.
TrueNorth’s Cook sees low returns, premium income dropping and more “selectivity” from underwriters.
Drivers should closely watch the market and adapt to the freight in high demand.
Amidst the coronavirus pandemic, fleet wellness programs should focus their efforts on protecting drivers from the illness.
As trucks try to resupply stores across the U.S. and Canada, an issue of drivers’ health insurance when in a different country has arisen. Read this article to learn more.
Truck inspections are often land mines for motor carriers but additional maintenance can defuse the situation.
Insurance spikes can be attributed to the ongoing threat of nuclear verdicts.
A panel of experts on the issue offers suggestions — but no easy fixes.
It’s now possible for managers to virtually ride shotgun with their drivers—and that’s a good thing.
Reliance Partners’ Brenda Wiser helps carriers prepare to interact with insurance inspectors
The Justice Department said eight U.S. cities account for 75% of the methamphetamine seized by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Providing workers’ comp is a no-brainer, so why not take advantage of the benefits it offers?
“Robert has turned the trucks faster than any other solution I’ve found,” said Max Fuller, co-founder of U.S. Xpress.
Drivers waste well over two hours at check-in, but Truckerd-In looks to streamline the process.
Trucking companies should understand the rules surrounding workers’ comp coverage.
Labor department’s ‘newfound powers’ means new hazards for companies that use independent contractors.
