Posts Tagged Truckers

Truckers Sleeper Berth Rule

Posted by Allen Smith in DOT, Jobs and Careers, Safety, Truck Driving Jobs, otr trucking, trucking, trucking companies, trucking life on March 11th, 2010

When it comes to writing the various regulations for professional truckers, it can be quite confusing to say the least. What looks good on paper for some, appears as complete chaos to those responsible for abiding by the rules. The current HOS hours of service rules consist of an “up-dated” version of the former sleeper berth rule for truck drivers. It can be so confusing, that many truckers have simply stopped using this regulation.

The new 8/2 sleeper berth rule came into affect when independent studies showed that a professional driver is more awake and alert after receiving at least eight hours of non-interrupted sleep. The study argued that when drivers lay down in the sleeper for three hours or five hours at a time, and then begin driving again, the human body simply cannot achieve the proper rest needed. Therefore, the old rule was thrown out and the newer 8/2 rule became law. The problem here, is that no consideration was taken that each and every individual is different. While one driver can perform safely with only five hours of sleep, another may need eight or ten hours of rest, while yet another can do just fine with only three hours . . . always based on each of our own biological clock. By grouping all drivers into the same category, the 8/2 hour sleeper berth rule has caused more problems than solutions.

Along with this new rule, many drivers and trucking companies alike, are finding themselves in violation of Federal Regulations by simply quoting the regulations and not fully understanding them. Furthermore, there is every reason to understand why so many are having this problem, based on how the rule is written in the Federal Regulations under Part 395.1 :

(g) Sleeper berths. (1) Property-carrying commercial motor vehicle.— (i) In General. A driver who operates a property-carrying commercial motor vehicle equipped with a sleeper berth, as defined in §§395.2 and 393.76 of this subchapter,

(g)(1)(i)(A) Must, before driving, accumulate

(1) At least 10 consecutive hours off duty;

(2) At least 10 consecutive hours of sleeper-berth time;

(3) A combination of consecutive sleeper-berth and off-duty time amounting to at least 10 hours; or

(4) The equivalent of at least 10 consecutive hours off duty if the driver does not comply with paragraph (g)(1)(i)(A)(1), (2), or (3) of this section;

(g)(1)(i)(B) May not drive more than 11 hours following one of the 10-hour off-duty periods specified in paragraph (g)(1)(i)(A)(1) through (4) of this section; and

(g)(1)(i)(C) May not drive after the 14th hour after coming on duty following one of the 10-hour off-duty periods specified in paragraph (g)(1)(i)(A)(1)–(4) of this section; and

(g)(1)(i)(D) Must exclude from the calculation of the 14-hour limit any sleeper berth period of at least 8 but less than 10 consecutive hours.

(g)(1)(ii) Specific requirements.— The following rules apply in determining compliance with paragraph (g)(1)(i) of this section:

(g)(1)(ii)(A) The term “equivalent of at least 10 consecutive hours off duty” means a period of

(1) At least 8 but less than 10 consecutive hours in a sleeper berth, and

(2) A separate period of at least 2 but less than 10 consecutive hours either in the sleeper berth or off duty, or any combination thereof.

(g)(1)(ii)(B) Calculation of the 11-hour driving limit includes all driving time; compliance must be re-calculated from the end of the first of the two periods used to comply with paragraph (g)(1)(ii)(A) of this section.

(g)(1)(ii)(C) Calculation of the 14-hour limit includes all time except any sleeper-berth period of at least 8 but less than 10 consecutive hours; compliance must be re-calculated from the end of the first of the two periods used to comply with the requirements of paragraph (g)(1)(ii)(A) of this section.

Right . . . that explains everything. The sleeper berth rule has become such a problem for drivers, that many have just stopped using it altogether. Unless you fully understand how it works, this would be the best thing a driver and company could do in order to prevent violations of this kind. I’m no expert on this regulation, but I thought I would try to give a clearer understanding of how this 8/2 sleeper berth rule works, especially for the newcomers to the industry.

The only legal way to split your time in the sleeper, is by using the 8/2 split, divided up in two separate time sections. You can no longer use split times of 7/3, 6/4, 5/5 or so forth. You are still limited to 11 hours of driving within a 14 hour window. I think one misconception that is causing a lot of drivers to go into violation, is thinking that the 8/2 split EXTENDS the 14 hour clock … it does not extend it, it only STOPS the 14 hour clock, and the only part of the split that STOPS the 14 hour clock is the consecutive 8 hours of time in the sleeper.

8/2 Sleeper Berth Rule

Using the two examples above:

On 2-12-10, after you take your 10 hour break, you do the required pre-trip and start driving at 1:15 a.m. You drive for 5 hours and at 6:15 a.m. you go in the sleeper for 2 hours waiting for your appointment time at the receiver. At 8:15 a.m. you go on duty not driving for 2 hours to unload the trailer . . . then at 10:15 am. you go back into the sleeper for the remaining 8 hours . . . So you get your 10 hour break in from 6:15 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. and from 10:15 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. Between these two breaks you did not drive, you only unloaded the trailer between 8:15 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.

At 6:15 p.m., at the end of the 8 hour break, you can now drive for another 11 hours, but you only have 11.75 hours left on the 14 hour clock to do it in, taking into consideration the 15 minute pre-trip inspection. Where drivers are getting in violation, is believing that the 14 hour clock re-started all over again from 6:15 a.m. , where you took your first 2 hour break. Not so . . . because the 2 hours spent unloading the trailer between 8:15 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. DOES NOT STOP THE 14 HOUR CLOCK . . . the only thing that stops the 14 hour clock is a straight 8 hours off, which began at 10:15 a.m.

So, at 6:15 p.m. , when you come out of the sleeper birth from the straight 8 hours, you may be thinking that since you got the 10 hours in, without driving in-between, you now have another 14 hours . . . but the 2 hours spent unloading between 8:15 a.m. and 10:15 a.m,. still counts toward the new 14 hour window that your working towards . . . so, you only have 11.75 hours left out the new 14 to run another 11 hours if you want to.

So the next day, on 2-13-10, you complete a straight 11 hours of driving. In this example, you go off duty from 5:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., taking the full 10 hours of required time off. Naturally, you have another 14 hour window and you do the required pre-trip and drive until 8:45 p.m., take two hours in the sleeper from 8:45 p.m. to 10:45 p.m., and at 10:45 p.m., basically starting the whole 8/2 process all over again.

There are many variables to utilizing the 8/2 sleeper berth rule and this is just one example. Team drivers can use the concept as well, as long as they fully understand that the drivers’ logbooks must match each other, thus the term “team.”

The main concept to remember is that, technically, there is no extending the 14 hour clock . . . only stopping it. Also, the two hours spent in the sleeper for the 8/2 rule does not stop the clock. Only the eight hours of consecutive time spent in the sleeper will stop the 14 hour clock.

: 8/2 sleeper berth rule, drivers logbooks, hos rules, sleeper berth, Truckers, trucking

8/2 sleeper berth rule, drivers logbooks, hos rules, sleeper berth, Truckers, trucking

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Running Across America for Truckers Medical Fund

Posted by Allen Smith in Truckers Health, trucking, trucking life on February 25th, 2010

Jasmine “Jazzy” Jordan is only 16 years young, but is on a mission. Having grown up in the trucking industry, one of her parents employees, Sheila Grothe fell ill and succumbed to cancer on April 17th, 2009. From that day forward, Jazzy was determined to make a difference in the lives of those who could not afford medical insurance or coverage. She began a rigorous training schedule and on September 1st, 2009, she began her run across America with all donations going to the St. Christopher Trucking Fund.

In her own words, Jazzy states: “My goal is to raise attention to the growing problem with people who have medical issues who are under insured and insured. We have all seen how generous our country has been in the past. I believe even in economic hard times we still make a big difference. Will you help me make the difference that is so needed? Together, we will change the future for the better.”

In our previous post, Non-Profit Organization Helps Truckers with Medical Expenses, the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund continues to provide assistance for truckers and their families who may be having difficulty paying medical expenses.

Jazzy Jordan Media Storm

You can “run along” with Jazzy on her cross country run at Run With Jazzy, and your donations will help this amazing young lady to achieve her goal . . . a goal that is higher than herself . . . a goal to help others in need.

Running in the hot sun, through rain, snow and dust storms, Jazzy Jordan has caught the attention of the media and American Truckers are being “challenged” by the Jordan’s to donate $10.00 to the St. Christopher Fund.

Jasmine “Jazzy” Jordan . . . 16 years young . . . what an inspiration!

: jasmine jordan, jazzy jordan, medical fund, run across america, st. christopher truckers fund, Truckers

jasmine jordan, jazzy jordan, medical fund, run across america, st. christopher truckers fund, Truckers

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Many Trucking Veterans also Military Veterans

Posted by Allen Smith in Politics, otr trucking, trucking on February 24th, 2010

There are millions of professional truckers in America, all with different points of views and opinions on a wide range of topics. A standing joke among the industry is the difficulty in finding two truck drivers who agree on one issue. Among these millions of truck drivers are thousands who have served in the U. S. Armed Forces. Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines . . . perhaps the Brotherhood of trucking has long been forgotten within the industry, but one thing these truckers do agree on is that the Brotherhood between soldiers last for a lifetime. They also agree that today’s U. S. Armed Forces have become a political military, which all started with what became known as the Pendleton 8.

The Pendleton 8 involved the case where seven Marines and a Navy Corpsman were charged with the killing of an Iraqi civilian. This case brought forth many anti-war liberal politicians who labeled our U. S. soldiers as nothing more than murderers and terrorists who’s sole purpose were to kill innocent civilians. Among these anti-war politicians leading this movement against our heroes were Represenative John Murtha and then Senator Barack Obama. Military personnel in combat and fighting within the killing zones, now had their hands tied behind their backs, unable to do the work of a soldier. Afraid of firing back at the enemy of the United States and fighting for the freedom and safety of all Americans, U. S. troops found themselves fighting instead, against a politicized military which would accuse them of murder and various crimes that could send them to prison for life.

During the time of George Bush’s presidency, we were bombarded by anti-war protesters on a daily basis. Cries of “End the War Now” and “Bring our troops home” echoed through out the country every single day. Who can forget the antics of Cindy Sheehan and other anti-war activists? The day Barack Obama came to office, the anti-war movement ended and not a single sound of protest has been heard since. Never in our history has a sitting U. S. President denied a Military General the requested number of additional troops needed to fight a war. Having asked for 40,000 additional troops, Barack Obama gave him 30,000.

Where are the anti-war activists now? Why have their cries grown silent while our men and women are still fighting the war? It is because they were never really anti-war, only anti-Republican. We now have a Congress and Senate majority, along with an Administration that hates the military and what it stands for. An American soldier now, has to stop and consider their own fate, before attacking an enemy combatant. An American soldier now has to stop and think about protecting their own life and the life of their fellow soldiers, before taking action in a war. We now have an Administration and leaders of the free world, along with prosecuting attorneys, just waiting . . . ready at any moment to send an American soldier to prison for performing the duties of an American soldier.

Lt. Michael Behenna is one of those soldiers.

Army Ranger Michael Behenna joined the military to defend his country after the 911 attack. He was deployed to Iraq as a 2nd Lieutenant and leader of the 18-member Delta Company, 5th platoon of the Army’s 101st Airborne Infantry Division in September 2007. Once there, Lt. Behenna was stationed at Forward Operating Base Summerall, near the regions of Baiji, Albu Toma and Salaam Village. One of the first tasks he took on was seeking out Sheik Hamad, the leader of Albu Toma. Sheik Hamad was considered the King of the area, and was also an enemy of the insurgents. Lt. Behenna quickly became good friends with the Sheik and worked closely with him in fighting against the terrorists. It is because of information received from the Sheik, that Lt. Behenna was able to detain Ali Mansur, a known member of an al-Qaida cell.

Terrorist, Ali Mansur organized an attack which killed two U. S. soldiers and injured two others. Lt. Behenna and his platoon captured Ali Mansur in 2008 and Michael was ordered to personally return the terrorist to his home and release him. According to Behenna’s account, Mansur lunged for Behenna as he was being returned home and Behenna shot him in self-defense. Even though an expert witness supports Behenna’s version of events, the government refused to hear this testimony. Lieutenant Behenna is now serving a 15 year sentence at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, convicted of unpremeditated murder in the shooting death of Ali Mansur.

The expert witness, Dr. Herbert Leon MacDonnell, Director of the Laboratory of Forensic Science in Corning, New York, is an expert in blood stain forensics. His career goes back for fifty years, and includes such high-profile and complex cases as the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., and even the case against O.J. Simpson. He is, without a doubt, an expert in the field. Dr. MacDonnell contacted the prosecutors in the case against Lt. Behenna, informing them of his findings which supported Michael’s testimony. The prosecutors, only interested in sending an American soldier to prison, refused to call this expert witness to the stand. Furthermore, they failed to advise the defense of Dr. MacDonnell’s findings. A clear violation of the Brady Material.

A Brady motion is a defendant’s request for evidence concerning a material witness which is favorable to the defense and to which the defense may be entitled. Favorable evidence includes not only evidence that tends to exculpate the accused, but also evidence that may impeach the credibility of a government witness. A Brady violation occurs where the failure to disclose evidence to the defense deprives the defendant of a fair trial. Instead of presenting the factual evidence that corroborated Lt. Behenna’s self defense claim and thereby show the “revenge execution” premise of their case, Army Captain’s Meghan Poirier, Jason Elbert and Erwin Roberts violated their own ethics code by hiding this evidence from both the defense team and the jury in order to achieve conviction in a politically-motivated prosecution.

Here is part of the letter that Dr. MacDonnell wrote to Captain Poirier, one of the prosecutors:

Dear Captain Poirier:

On Thursday afternoon when I heard Lt. Michael Behenna testify as to the circumstances of how the shots were fired I could not believe how close it was to the scenario I had described to you on Wednesday. I am sure that had I testified that I would have wanted to give my reenactment so the jury could have had the option of considering how well the defendant’s story fit the physical facts. This, of course, would not have been helpful to the prosecution case. However, I feel that it is quite important as possible exculpatory evidence so I hope that, in the interest of justice, you informed Mr. Zimmerman of my findings. It certainly appears like Brady material to me.

Respectfully,
Dr. Herbert MacDonnell

In the interest of justice. Military prosecutors not interested in justice, but only serving a politicized military. Military prosecutors who failed to allow the jury to hear expert testimony from their own witness, and declined to provide the information to the defense team, which is required by law.

Killings

Furthermore, do not believe that this is one isolated case. The three Navy Seals who captured Ahmed Hashim Abed, the ringleader behind the murdering and burning of four Americans, hanging them from a bridge for all the world to see, only to claim that the Navy Seals punched him in the face and now the Navy is working hard to send these heroes to prison . . . and there are other American heroes faced with the political dealings of a military-hating administration and justice system.

Lt. Michael Behenna has been another scape goat for the political system. An American hero sits in prison for fighting for his life and the freedom of all Americans. Expert testimony by a leader in forensic science was never disclosed, violating the Brady material. Read more of what Dr. MacDonnell advised the prosecutors:

“On another issue I am somewhat concerned that I did not testify and have a chance to inform the court of the only logical explanation for this shooting. As I demonstrated to you and to the two other prosecutors, Dr. Berg, Sgt. McCaulley, and Sgt. Rogers?, from the evidence I feel that Ali Mansur had to have been shot in the chest when he was standing. As he dropped straight down he was shot again at the very instant that his head passed in front of the muzzle. Admittedly, this would be an amazing coincidence, however, it fits the facts and as I told you on Wednesday, it fits the facts and I can not think of a more logical explanation.”

“This scenario is consistent with the two shots being close together, consistent with their horizontal trajectory, consistent with the bloodstains on the floor, and consistent with the condition of the 9mm flattened out bullet which was tumbling after leaving Mansur’s head or body. I do not know where this bullet was recovered but I would expect after impact to the concrete wall it fell very close to that wall. The other bullet should have been close to the first and there should have been two impact points on the wall.”

Respectfully Submitted,

Dr. Herbert Leon MacDonell, Director
LABORATORY OF FORENSIC SCIENCE

Lt. Michael Behenna deserves a new trial. I know thousands of our nation’s truckers are military veterans and I know millions of our nation’s truckers love America. Michael’s parents, Scott and Vicki Behenna are asking for your help. Help to defend Michael Behenna by allowing a new trial based on the Brady violation and voice your outcry that an American hero sits in prison for protecting his own life against a known Al-Qaeda operative while serving his country in Iraq.

Sign the petition to give Lt. Behenna a new trial and they ask that you contact your congressional delegation on behalf of Michael and to send a letter to John McHugh, the Secretary of the Army. When sending this letter point out to Mr. McHugh that Michael served his country and deserves to have a sentence that acknowledges his service. Also point out that a service member should have the ability to defend himself in a combat zone particularly against a known member of Al Qaeda. Please send your letter to:

Secretary of the Army – John McHugh

1400 Defense Pentagon

Washington, D.C. 20301-1400

The legal expense for their son is overwhelming. If you can assist in any way, you can mail a donation to:

1LT Michael Behenna Legal Defense Fund
c/o Jack Dawson, co-trustee
100 Park Avenue, Second Floor
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102-8099

We are all able to live our life in freedom due to the bravery and sacrifices of people like Lt. Behenna. They should not become pawns in a political military, sent to prison while the enemy of the United States receives more rights and justice than our own heroes. Every American should be outraged at what has happened to this brave young man. Millions of truckers can raise their voices and help bring justice to one of America’s soldiers.

Let Lt. Michael Behenna know that he is not forgotten and we are fighting for his release. You can write Lt. Behenna at:

Michael Behenna #87503

1300 N. Warehouse Road

Fort Leavenworth, KS 66027-2304

Lt. Michael Behenna

In a response to a letter he received, Lt. Behenna wrote:

“… I cannot even begin to describe the frustration and despair I feel on a daily basis. Every day I am treated like a criminal in the country I love, the country I fought for… It feels good to know that I am not just washing away in this cell in complete silence…”

Help bring justice to an American hero. Free Lt. Michael Behenna.

Thank you,
Allen Smith

: injustice, michael behenna, military, military politics, military veterans, new trial, Truckers

injustice, michael behenna, military, military politics, military veterans, new trial, Truckers

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Organization Seeks Truckers Help in Combating Human Trafficking

Posted by Allen Smith in Talk Radio Show, Truck Stops, otr trucking, trucking on February 15th, 2010

During his campaign for Presidency, President Obama stated that the problem with human trafficking in America would have to be a top priority. Other than a post written for the Washington Post in June, 2009 by Hillary Clinton, like administrations’ before him, nothing has really been done. Perhaps Governmental officials just do not know how to tackle this $32 billion worldwide industry. Others however, are stepping up to draw attention to this horrific crime and they are looking at professional truckers and trucking companies for assistance.

In the past few weeks, the National Hotline has received numerous calls from truckers across the nation concerning human trafficking activity as a result of Truckers Against Trafficking and an interview with Chapter 61 Ministries. Federal agents have stated that they have been very pleased with the tips received from truckers. Please continue to call in tips and help put human trafficking perpetrators behind bars and rescue trafficking victims. The toll free hotline is 1-888-373-7888.

As a founding member of Chapter 61 Ministries, Kylla Leeburg has been instrumental in organizing grass-roots efforts to fight the issue of human trafficking in the state of Oklahoma. A former missionary in El Salvador, she has seen first-hand the devastation and long-term impact abuse, oppression, injustice and slavery, whether economic, social or sexual, has on people, from generation to generation.

Kylla has stated: “I have always been drawn to justice issues, whether it was working for human rights for gang members and glue sniffers in San Salvador or now working for the victims of human trafficking. I just believe we each have a purpose beyond ourselves in this world, and we need to step up and do our parts.”

In the three years since Chapter 61 Ministries formed, Kylla has worked to educate and bring awareness of injustice and human trafficking issues to the students and faculty in the high school where she teaches as well as to educational institutions throughout the state of Oklahoma. She has written articles and editorials on the issue for publications and has provided presentations and webinars on human trafficking and truckers against trafficking in a variety of settings, including the Big Rig Expo in Tulsa last October. She has participated as a panel member on human trafficking and taken part in committee and task force action teams.

The Truckers Against Trafficking initiative, which Chapter 61 began in March 2009, is the direct result of an idea birthed from information Kylla gleaned at the first national human trafficking awareness conference Chapter 61 Ministries put on in October 2008. Members of the trucking industry, by nature of their jobs and the high visibility and presence they maintain on our nation’s highways, can play a critical role in bringing this heinous crime to an end and seeing perpetrators brought to justice and victims released. “All they need is to understand the problem and be given the education, tools and tips to join the fight effectively.”

Kylla Leeburg was our special guest on Truth About Trucking “LIVE” talk radio, Wednesday, February 17th, 2010 at 7 PM EST. Discussion concerned the injustices of human trafficking in America and how you, as truckers can help rescue victims.

Hundreds of thousands of men, women and children are bought and sold across international borders each year. Approximately 70 percent are women and young girls. Help stop human trafficking in America and abroad. If you missed the live broadcast, you can catch it here:

Special thanks to Take No Glory, for the use of their song, Beautiful Slave, written after learning about the human trafficking crisis.

: chapter 61 ministries, human trafficking, kylla leeburg, Truckers, truckers against trafficking, trucking

chapter 61 ministries, human trafficking, kylla leeburg, Truckers, truckers against trafficking, trucking

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Truth About Trucking “LIVE” Talk Radio Upcoming Shows

Posted by Allen Smith in Politics, Safety, Talk Radio Show, Truck Driving Jobs, otr trucking, trucking on February 3rd, 2010

Blog Talk Radio is the largest social radio media in the world, pulling in 6 million listeners every day. Truth About Trucking “LIVE” is the premier trucking talk radio show on BTR. Launching in July, 2008 the show has obtained a global listening audience of 100,000 with a +/- of three percent.

As noted by Blog Talk Radio: “Your show is exactly the kind we look for . . . something totally different and separate from the main media stream.”

In association with our main website, Truth About Trucking, my goal from the very beginning was to not be just more talk, but to stand up and take viable action in “raising the standards of the trucking industry” and to provide real and valuable assistance to CDL students and new drivers entering into a trucking career. One way of doing this, is through our BTR show, Truth About Trucking “LIVE.”

We have scheduled further broadcasts for February, 2010 and would invite everyone to tune in and come join the conversation:

2-11-10 – Florida High Speed Rail – Inside Florida Transportation - 7 PM EST

“The Florida High Speed Rail proposal, Private Public Partnerships, fiscal irresponsibility and the selling off of America. Former Orange County mayoral candidate and transportation activist, Sally Baptiste returns as our special guest to discuss the Governmental waste of your tax dollars and her role in the September, 2009 Tea Party movement in Washington, D.C. Visit her website at: http://www.tollscreategridlock.org

2-17-10 – Human Trafficking – Truckers Call to Action – 7 PM EST

“Human trafficking is America’s modern day slavery. Men, women and children are being bought and sold in the United States and abroad and has become a $32 billion industry worldwide. Kylla Leeburg, of chapter61.com is our special guest, as we look at this horrific crime and how truckers are being called to action to help rescue the victims of Human Trafficking in America. For more information, please visit: http://www.truckersagainsttrafficking.com

2-18-10 – Congressman Paul Tonko on Jason’s Law – 7 PM EST

“Congressman Paul Tonko (D) N.Y., is our special guest as we discuss the importance of passing House Bill H.R.2156. Better known as Jason’s Law, this bill will provide safe and secure parking for our nation’s truck drivers. Congressman Tonko will bring us up to date on this important issue that is so vital to the safety of all truckers.”

Be sure to bookmark us and add us to your favorites, and come join the conversation.

: blog talk radio, congressman, human trafficking, Jason's law- H.R.2156 S971, paul tonko, sally baptiste, talk radio, truck drivers, Truckers, truth about trucking live

blog talk radio, congressman, human trafficking, Jason's law- H.R.2156 S971, paul tonko, sally baptiste, talk radio, truck drivers, Truckers, truth about trucking live

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Trucking and Road Rage in America

Posted by Allen Smith in Safety, Talk Radio Show, Truck Driving Jobs, otr trucking, trucking, trucking life on January 24th, 2010

Road Rage in America It is believed that the term “road rage” originated from the United States. It is defined as an “aggressive or angry behavior by a driver of an automobile or other motor vehicle.” Professional truck drivers are no strangers to road rage, both as instigator but more often, victims. It is no secret that professional truck drivers experience a high level of stress from their jobs. Add various equations to the field, and the level rises.

With the road becoming more and more congested, combined with pressures placed on them by dispatch, regulations and the simple fact of just trying to earn a living during economic hardships, more incidents of road rage are occurring, with many going unreported. Very often, a seemingly small argument over the C.B. radio can turn into a deadly altercation, such as in the most recent case of the stabbing of one driver by another along the Edens Expressway in Illinois.

Professional truckers see everything there is to see while out on the road and road rage is no exception. Truckers are more often targets of road rage by the general public which still have many misconceptions about how an 18-wheeler is maneuvered. However, truck drivers experience road rage altercations by other truck drivers, as well. Days and even months on the road, away from family and any kind of home environment, the constant mental and physical exertion of awareness across the overcrowded highways of America, the need to meet shipper and receiver deadlines, the lack of proper rest and sleep, along with proper exercise and nutrition . . . the stress is unbelievable. The times arise when there are those who launch into a full-scale road rage assault, often times being turned from assailant to victim:

(Video contains “Strong Language”)

Truth About Trucking “LIVE” talk radio took a close look at this serious issue which is recently making head line news across America:

“In 1999, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration declared Road Rage the most pressing traffic safety problem facing America. Allen looks at this driver behavior, its often deadly consequences and offers tips on preventing, as well as surviving a trucking Road Rage encounter.”

Trucking Road Rage

Originally Aired: Wednesday, January 27th, 2010 at 9 PM EST.

: Edens Expressway, road rage, road rage in America, Truckers, trucking, trucking talk radio

Edens Expressway, road rage, road rage in America, Truckers, trucking, trucking talk radio

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Non-Profit Organization Helps Truckers with Medical Expenses

Posted by Allen Smith in Trucker Donations, Truckers Health, trucking, trucking life on January 19th, 2010

The St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund is a non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to professional truck drivers and families of truck drivers, who have medical problems and can not otherwise afford health care. According to their site:

“Studies have shown that more than 70% of the 3.2 million professional drivers in the U.S. have one or more serious health problems such as obesity, diabetes, sleep disorders and cardiovascular disease. Professional drivers also lack the same access to health that most Americans enjoy.”

On a further note, it has been shown that professional long haul truckers experience a life expectancy rate that is ten years shorter than the average person. Due to the hardships of trucking, professional drivers often face medical expenses that can easily overcome their ability to pay. St. Christopher provides financial assistance to as many drivers and families as they can through the donations received.

Their Mission Statement:

“SCF helps professional drivers and their families who have financial needs due to medical problems. Assistance may be in the form of direct payment for medical services or prescription drugs, assistance with expenses while recovering from illness and out of work, or negotiating price reductions with insurance companies, medical providers and hospitals.”

Founded by Dave Nemo, host of the Dave Nemo Show (XM Radio Channel 171 – Open Road) and Dr. John McElligott, the Chairman and Founder of Professional Drivers Medical Depots, they offer help for those drivers and families of drivers who may be experiencing difficulties in paying medical expenses.

For more information about the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund or to make a donation, please send a letter to:

P.O. Box 30763

Knoxville, TN 37930

Or visit their website . . . Truckers Fund

: assistance, families, medical bills, non-profit organization, St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund, Truckers, truckers fund, truckersfund

assistance, families, medical bills, non-profit organization, St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund, Truckers, truckers fund, truckersfund

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Immigration Reform to Further Affect American Truckers

Posted by Allen Smith in Politics, Safety, Truck Driving Jobs, otr trucking, trucking on January 6th, 2010

newflags As if there are not enough problems for American truckers, the Obama Administration is quietly working in the background to further another aspect of their agenda against America: immigration reform. For 2010, their goal is to give complete amnesty to all of the estimated 12 million illegal immigrants currently living in the United States. Senator Chuck Schumer will be primarily responsible for submitting the bill to the Senate and Obama’s pick to run the reform is current Homeland Security Secretary, Janet Napolitano.

There is another issue related to this reform that is not being reported too often. Within the 1987 immigration law, there has always been a ban on allowing any immigrants to enter the United States that are HIV infected . . . Obama has lifted that ban. Therefore, if they succeed with their new immigration reform, not only will the 12 million illegals become legal, but those infected with the HIV virus will be allowed to enter the U. S. just in time for what could become nationalized health care, and they could receive government medical health care for their illness.

Also, let’s not forget about the push for Cap and Trade, using the CIA to study global warming and their determination to not use such terms as “terrorist” or “terrorism.” Instead, they prefer “extremist” or as in the case of the Christmas Day attempted bomber, “man-made disasters.” This Administration has no idea who America’s enemy is, nor do they care.

They have their own Agenda Against America.

If immigration reform (amnesty) comes through in 2010, American truckers will be hit hard, eventually, once again. With an industry such as trucking, which loves cheap labor, truck drivers across America could lose more jobs as this country continues its spiral downward.

If Government health care becomes reality as well, thanks to the ban lift, those immigrants with HIV can come to us for medical treatment.

These issues and many more, along with a history record setting 12 trillion dollar debt and America basically being sold to China. In 2009, the U. S. dollar lost value of 19% and many experts believe that the USD will lose 90% of its value by 2014.

Millions without jobs, no economic stimulation taking place and the Administration continues to push for health care reform, immigration reform and Cap and Trade. Three plans that will push America to its final edge and most Americans will just let it happen.

: America, american truckers, cap and trade, cheap labor, government, health care, HIV, illegal, immigrants, immigration reform, Janet Napolitano, Truckers, trucking, USD, value

America, american truckers, cap and trade, cheap labor, government, health care, HIV, illegal, immigrants, immigration reform, Janet Napolitano, Truckers, trucking, USD, value

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The Truck Driver’s Worst Enemy

Posted by Allen Smith in otr trucking, trucking, trucking companies, trucking life on October 25th, 2009

by Allen Smith

Professional truck drivers have a lot of enemies. Many drivers perceive the DOT as one enemy . . . and without question it is the general public who looks at trucking as something that is just in their way: a big, slow 18 wheeler creeping up a hill at 25 MPH, making a huge wide turn that cuts them off, a dirty machine that smells of oil and diesel . . . enemies can even include entire towns or cities that proudly make it known by stating, “Truckers Not Welcome,” such as was the case of Greenwich, Connecticut.

The world of the professional over the road truck driver is a secretive one that few on the outside ever experience. Mainly, the trucker talks and converses with other truckers . . . few else would be able to relate. The nine-to-fiver has no comprehension of how a long haul trucker will run more miles in one year, than they will drive in ten. For those who jump into OTR trucking as a new career . . . statistics prove that most will only last six months. It takes a ton of stamina to be a professional over the road truck driver . . . stamina, that most do not possess.

The truck driver will find enemies at nearly every turn . . . shippers and receivers who will treat them like they are less than dogs . . . law enforcement telling them that they will have to move their rig, even though they are parked out of the way on some small, forgotten empty lot overgrown with grass and weeds . . . enemies that even live within their industry itself . . . lies reported on their DAC report . . . a disgruntled dispatcher who will “cut” their miles because they refused to haul an illegal load . . . enemies everywhere.

Professional truckers will talk among themselves at the docks, rest areas and truck stops . . . talking about the abuses of the industry and keeping these insights quietly to themselves. They cannot let their company catch wind of such discussions . . . they can’t afford to lose their jobs. The veteran driver knows that for every one truck driver that loves their profession . . . ten more hate it, due to the abuse that continues to survive within the industry.

As one trucker said to me a few weeks ago: “The trucking companies own us . . . we are nothing more than slaves.”

I would not go so far as to referring to trucking as slavery, (we can all quit at anytime we want to), but for many thousands and thousands of OTR truckers . . . they are faced not only with a highly stressful, demanding and tiring vocation . . . but also with the daily misfortune of having to deal with so many misinformed outsiders who have no understanding of what over the road trucking is all about. Enemies who look at truckers and their big rigs as a nuisance of the roads and something that just simply slows down their ever increasing, fast paced way of life. None of these, however, are the truck driver’s worst enemy.

I’ve always had a saying: “There is only right and wrong . . . and nothing in between.“ Fighting for a right is a much tougher battle than fighting for an obvious injustice. History proves this. Like water which takes the path of least resistance, it is much easier to join forces with the injustice, than it is to fight against it. How you know that the “right” is gaining ground to winning, is that the voices of the injustice grow louder. Right versus wrong has existed since the time of man and will continue to exist . . . it is just human nature. There are those in which their sole purpose in life is to argue, attack and to continue spewing hate . . . even when they know that they are wrong. I could make a post tomorrow about how the sky is blue, and I would be attacked by those who would say, “No . . . the sky is amethyst.” Truth, or the “right” is meaningless to them . . . their pleasure comes only from continually provoking hate and discord.

Trucking companies in the United States have never worried about a trucker strike. These companies know that the brotherhood of truckers does not exist anymore and that many truck drivers could not get along, together, long enough to form a successful strike. An easy way to prove this is to simply turn on your CB radio and try to have a normal, decent, intelligent, adult-like conversation. You may make it for a few minutes . . . but it will soon be attacked by other truckers. It does not matter why or how the conversation is attacked, just that it is. It’s the world we live in today.

It is understandable to have disagreements . . . it is more understandable to have professional and civil discussions. Yet, there have been truckers who have actually “attacked” a widow of a murdered truck driver: a women who is fighting to bring about a new law that will provide more safe and secured parking for our nation’s truck drivers. No professional, civil or adult conversations . . . but written, verbal attacks against a lady who lost her husband who was a fellow trucker. “Professional” truck drivers filled with jealously and rage because somebody else is doing something of such importance, and it’s not them . . . trucking organizations who came out strong in support of the new bill, only to fall weak and abandoned it when faced with losing their funding from those with special interests in mind. To her, I say forget about them and don’t lose any sleep over it. These are the segments of truck drivers and industry “leaders” who prefer to follow the path of least resistance.

Fighting . . . discord . . . hate . . . jealously . . . pride . . . whatever the reason, a large majority of the nation’s truck drivers will continue to follow the easiest path. The thousands of others who are professional and civil . . . may work quietly in the background or even raise their voices . . . but they will do it in a manner that shines with their professionalism and commitment to bringing change to an industry that needs change in several areas. There will always be those who will fight and wreak havoc just for the sake of fighting and wreaking havoc . . . the truck driver’s worst enemy is the truck driver.

Anyone who has been in trucking for any length of time knows that trucking is a tough vocation. Over the road trucking is especially rough . . . hard on the body, the mind and apparently, even the soul. It no doubt has come around due to the hardships of the trucking life. It not only exists in trucking, but sadly, you can witness this fall in human kindness and decency throughout many aspects of our society. Personal attacks have become a past time favorite for many. A large majority of mankind now gains complete satisfaction from launching verbal and textual attacks against anything and anybody, purely for the sake of what they perceive as entertainment. They contribute nothing good or positive to society and they care not to.

The simple art of “believing” is nearly dead. When anyone attempts to work for something for the sole purpose of helping, it must be for “other reasons.” In today’s society, there is absolutely no way that anyone would take on a task for the sole purpose of “helping.” That aspect is simply absurd! What the trucking companies have over a large vast of drivers, is that they can all “get along” with one another . . . they know the chances of this among drivers is next to nil. This is how companies can continue to abuse drivers through the use of the DAC Report . . . this is how trucking companies can work together to “blackball” a driver from the industry, a control tactic if you will. Together, they are a nationwide “team” . . . on the contrary, assaults and attacks are launched against drivers by drivers. Obviously, the trucking companies know that they do not have to do anything . . . the drivers themselves will do the job! The companies understand human nature and use it for their benefit.

Over the road trucking can wear you down. Enemies from all sides . . . the stress, the lifestyle, the demand . . . and so often the case, another enemy that can creep in if you allow it: cynicism.

Cynicism. This word is actually very interesting. It refers to a group of ancient Greeks called the Cynics, dating back to four B.C. Today, cynicism describes the opinions of those people who see self-interest as the main, primary motive of human behavior, and who fail to believe that anybody does anything simply out of sincerity or virtue. Cynics truly believe that no human being invokes any action of any kind purely out of goodness. Also, the way cynics express themselves, due to this belief, are through sneers and sarcasm.

Sad, isn’t it? We only have one life to live, which is so short, and one must live it through cynicism and failure to believe in anything right and good . . . living life by attacking others who are sincere in their goals, only to make themselves look like a “hero” and to bring attention to themselves. Another amazing aspect to this is that so many of them complain on a daily basis, yet will not even attempt to get involved and change things for the better. If things changed, they would no longer have the reasons they need to throw out their sneers and sarcasm. It is an odd characteristic.

For many, over the road trucking has worn them down. On the other hand, those stronger did not allow the OTR life to destroy them and they enjoy the trucking life and prove that it is possible to remain a highly trained professional in a very difficult lifestyle . The life of an over the road trucker can transform you into a bitter, jealous, hate-filled cynic . . . . but only if you let it. Remember, that the “truck” is not your home . . . your HOME is your home . . . remember, other truckers are not your family . . . your FAMILY is your family . . . and always remember, that the freight is NEVER more important than those loved ones waiting back at home.

So, for all of you new CDL students and drivers breaking into the industry . . . over the road trucking can provide a decent career eventually, but only if you are up to the drastic change in lifestyle. Will you follow the path of least resistance, or maintain the strength to stand up for what is right?

Before entering into the world of long haul trucking, you should answer yourself one question: “Will I be a follower or a leader?” Do not allow yourself to become your worst enemy.

: cynicism, enemies, enemy, long haul, otr, over the road, professional, truck driver, truck drivers, Truckers, trucking, trucking companies

cynicism, enemies, enemy, long haul, otr, over the road, professional, truck driver, truck drivers, Truckers, trucking, trucking companies

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Health Care Reform for Truck Drivers

Posted by Allen Smith in Talk Radio Show, Truckers Health on September 24th, 2009

With premium costs spiraling upwards and no end in sight, health care is a big concern for truckers and the trucking industry as well. Join hosts Allen Smith and Barry Szczucki, with special guest Mike Johnston scheduled, for an in-depth look into possible solutions to reforming health care. Even company provided health care coverage is seeing increases as high as three to four times the premiums from a year ago.

Trucking talk radio show, Truth About Trucking “LIVE” on Blog Talk Radio, will air Health Care Reform for the Trucking Industry, Thursday, October 1st, 2009 at 3 PM EST.

Come join the conversation . . .

Allen

If you are in need of affordable and guaranteed health care coverage . . . you owe it to yourself to check out Access Health Care. Top rated company that provides affordable health coverage for as little as $99 per month for single, and $249 per month for family! Check it out for yourself, and be sure to join us on our next show.