Industry News & Tips for Truck Drivers

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Written by: Kate Williams

May 19, 2020

If you like truck driving but prefer to stay closer to home, a Midwest regional driving job may be a good fit for you. Many regional drivers get weekends at home and more time with family and friends. A regional route is often consistent, with truckers driving the same route on a weekly or monthly basis.

Not as limiting as local routes, regional routes can be a happy medium between local and OTR trucking jobs. Midwest regional trucking jobs are particularly appealing as they cover a large section of the country.

The boundaries of regional trucking jobs vary from company to company. Some companies have a fixed mile limit that you can drive from your home base, while others may provide predetermined routes or states. Most companies offer guaranteed home time, frequently in the form of five days of driving during the week and weekends off. Occasionally weekend deliveries may be required.

Top Midwest Regional Trucking Companies

There are dozens of trucking companies, from nationally known names to small family-owned operations. Some focus their business on the warmer, more arid southern half of the Midwest, while others have their drivers in the snow and ice of the northern great plains. Do your research and choose the one that meets your needs. Here are some of the best in the Midwest:

Bay & Bay Transportation. In business since 1941 and based in Eagen, Minnesota, Bay & Bay Transportation has drivers that cross from southern Minnesota down to Texas and east to southern Maine. They have regional, OTR, and local positions. An asset-based carrier with their own fleet of 500 trucks, they also serve as a Third Party Logistics Provider. There is a pet and rider program in place and a no forced New York City dispatch policy.

CFI. Joplin Missouri-based, Contract Freighters, Inc. (CFI) has immediate openings for experienced Class-A CDL truck drivers to drive over-the-road routes with great opportunities to grow. Offering company driver, team, and Owner Operator opportunities, you will want to check out what CFI trucking jobs have to offer.

Paschall Truck Lines. Based in Murray, KY, Paschall Truck Lines is a 100% employee-owned trucking company with the highest-paid training in the trucking industry. Consider their Midwest Regional opportunities offering great pay, hometime on the weekend, and lots of drop & hook freight. Spend more time on the road earning and less time waiting at shippers.

Ready to Find a New Trucking Job?

If you are looking for a Midwest regional truck driving job, CDLjobs.com is your one-stop resource. Simply apply today, and watch the offers roll in from trusted trucking companies around the country.

If you’re looking to work at a Southeast regional trucking company, there are many openings in that region as well.

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Written by: Kate Williams

May 06, 2020

Truck drivers once ranked among America’s unsung heroes. Until the pandemic put the men and women who deliver the goods and materials that keep communities afloat, little attention was paid to the stress, anxiety, and conditions that chip away at truckers’ mental health.

The shuttering of rest areas, bathrooms, motels, and other truck driving infrastructure during the pandemic raised alarms about excessive hardships faced by CDL professionals. But long after the U.S. economy reopens and normalcy returns, truckers will continue to do an essential job that justifies far greater attention to mental health and wellness.

Trucker issues must remain in the national conversation, and drivers should get the support they deserve.

Mental Health Disorders Suffered By Truck Drivers

It’s an open secret that the truck driving landscape lends itself to isolation, uneven sleep, and forces CDL professionals to operate a vehicle weighing upwards of 40 tons in a constant state of hyper-vigilance. Couple those realities with being away from loved ones and general companionship for extended periods of time, and you have a perfect storm for impacted mental health and wellness.

The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), a branch of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) conducted a study of 316 truckers operating within a 100-mile radius of Greensboro, North Carolina. Providing drivers — ranging in age between 23 and 76 — with a confidential survey comprised of 82 questions, the health organization’s finding did not surprise what industry insiders already suspected.

• 27.9 percent struggled with loneliness
• 26.9 percent suffered some form of depression
• 20.6 percent indicated problems associated with chronic sleep disturbances
• 14.5 percent had symptoms of anxiety
• 13 percent identified other emotional problems

“Professional truck drivers work in stressful conditions that favor unhealthy lifestyles and medical disorders. Their overall health, and especially their mental health, is very often worse than the general population as a consequence of long driving shifts, disrupted sleep patterns, chronic fatigue, social isolation, compelling service duties, delivery urgency, job strain, low rewards, and unsystematic medical control,” an NCBI report states.

Although professional drivers average an annual salary of more than $45,000 and many experienced fleet drivers earn over $80,000, the rigors of trucking underscore the reason why the country has a long-standing workforce shortage. Organizations such as the American Trucking Associations report that the driver shortage swelled to 60,000 in 2018. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics ranks heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers among the high growth occupations year over year. While job security will certainly not be an issue for qualified CDL drivers, unnecessary stressors must be addressed to help attract drivers and allow them to enjoy healthy, productive careers.

Recognizing the telltale signs that truck drivers are experiencing a decline in mental health and wellness has been something of a challenge. Trucking culture has long-standing ground rules that drivers possess a tough-as-nails mentality. “The trucking industry work environment emphasizes stoicism, independence and emotional control which favors symptoms of low mood or distress (anger, risk-taking, memory and concentration deficit, anxiety, depression, insomnia),” an NCBI report states.

That industry attitude may have been born out of necessity, given the rugged nature of trucking jobs, but it also results in drivers masking stress and creates a self-care barrier. That’s why it’s essential for truck drivers, fleet supervisors, and other trucking industry professionals to remain mindful of symptoms.

These are common warning signs, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

• Feeling excessively sad or low
• Confused thinking or problems concentrating and learning
• Extreme mood changes, including uncontrollable “highs” or feelings of euphoria
• Prolonged or strong feelings of irritability or anger
• Avoiding friends and social activities
• Difficulties understanding or relating to other people
• Changes in sleeping habits or feeling tired and low energy
• Changes in eating habits such as increased hunger or lack of appetite
• Changes in sex drive
• Difficulty perceiving reality (delusions or hallucinations, in which a person experiences and senses things that don’t exist in objective reality)
• Inability to perceive changes in one’s own feelings, behavior, or personality
• Abuse of substances like alcohol or drugs
• Multiple physical ailments without obvious causes (such as headaches, stomach aches, vague and ongoing “aches and pains”)
• Thinking about suicide
• Inability to carry out daily activities or handle daily problems and stress
• Intense fear of weight gain or concern with appearance

Although NAMI points out that one or more of these potential mental health symptoms may not necessarily mean someone has a severe condition, it’s critical to seek support. This has, traditionally, presented a substantial challenge for truckers who buy-in to a culture that places a high value on mental toughness and self-reliance. Few would dispute that by virtue of hauling goods and materials over thousands of miles in adverse conditions automatically qualifies CDL holders as resilient. But industry insiders - including freight hauling organizations - are tasked with dispelling myths truckers do not face the same mental health challenges as other workforces.

What Trucking Companies Can Do To Improve Mental Health Support

It’s important to note that the trucking industry does not necessarily require a radical culture shift. But the time of ignoring significant problems must end if truck drivers are to enjoy the personal rewards of a job well done. Trucking companies may not be able to alter roadway infrastructure, but they can make a difference. These are ways trucking companies can help reduce mental health problems.

Remain Open To Co-Pilots

Social isolation contributes to the leading mental health issues suffered by truckers — loneliness and depression. Truck drivers are often expected to go entire weeks away from friends and family members, sleep at rest areas, truck stops, or alone in roadside motels. This is an absolute recipe for diminished wellness. When trucking companies are flexible about their rider program policies, allowing truckers to have a co-pilot or a spouse who signs off on a waiver, long-term solitude can be eliminated. Many trucking organizations are hesitant to allow third parties in rigs. But flexible companies are more likely to see greater driver retention and less burnout. They’re also doing the right thing in terms of mental health.

Check For Sleep Apnea

The NCBI reports that 20.6 percent of drivers struggle with sleep disturbances. But a study backed by the American Trucking Associations and FMCSA found that upwards of 28 percent of truckers suffered from at least mild sleep apnea. This physical disorder places undue mental health stress on drivers. The study identifies the following telltale signs.

• Loud snoring
• Morning headaches and nausea
• Gasping or choking while sleeping
• Loss of sex drive/impotence
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Irritability and/or feelings of depression
• Disturbed sleep
• Concentration and memory problems
• Frequent nighttime urination

Trucking companies have the ability to publish these warning signs and enforce sleep apnea screenings. Many believe it would be in the long-term benefit of its driving force for them to do so.

Encourage Homestyle Comforts

Drivers may not be able to sleep in their own bed after hours of service, but companies that allow and encourage meaningful personal items provide some level of comfort. Quality bedding, blankets, pillows, and other items from home, may reduce loneliness by providing a sense of comfort and connectedness.

Mental Health Resources For Truck Drivers

Being on the road does not mean truckers are cut off from reliable mental health support systems. Wireless technology allows drivers to work with private therapists via apps such as Face Time, Zoom, and other video conferencing platforms. Having a professional to discuss mental health and challenges while on the road can make a substantial difference in terms of wellness.

It’s also important to consider national resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 for emergency support. This resource can connect struggling drivers with specialists familiar with what you may be going through. These may include counselors who work with veterans, grief, substance abuse, and people of faith, among others. There are also vast online support systems and locators that can be accessed with a Google search.

Professional truck drivers made a Herculean effort to keep America’s food supply chains open and deliver essential products during the time of the pandemic. Truckers are no longer unsung heroes, and our valued women and men of the road deserve quality care and improved conditions.

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Written by: Kate Williams

April 16, 2020

Packed highways with endless lines of cars may be an inconvenience for motorists, but they present a serious financial danger for the trucking industry. Traffic congestion increases the cost of trucking by billions of dollars annually. It slows down deliveries, interrupts supply chains, and adds to driver fatigue.

Worse, the number of cars in the U.S. continues to increase drastically. In just 4 years, from 2015 to 2019, the amount of vehicles on the road rose from 256.9 million to 279.2 million. That’s an increase of almost 9 percent.

If lawmakers and industry experts don’t do something to resolve the issue, congestion is on track to get far worse, sending operating costs skyrocketing.

How Traffic Congestion Adds to the Cost of Trucking

In every business, time is money. This is especially true for trucking companies. Delays in delivering shipments have a major impact on the bottom line for fleet owners and truck drivers alike. Every hour lost in traffic represents time that could be used to complete additional shipments. In the span of a year, that ends up being a lot of wasted revenue.

According to the American Transportation Research Institute’s Cost of Congestion to the Trucking Industry (2018 Update), the operational costs of trucking related to congestion amounted to almost $75 billion in 2016. Across the industry, trucks experienced about 1.2 billion hours of delay. To put that figure in perspective - that is equal to having over 425,500 drivers parked non-stop all year long.

The more trucks in a fleet, the higher the operational costs of trucking related to traffic congestion. Also, long-haul trucking companies see a proportional increase in the financial impact of congestion due to the increased distance and travel time required for shipments. Trucks that travel 25,000 miles annually see average delay-related costs of $6,469, while drivers that go 125,000 miles have to deal with average costs of $32,350.

Where Traffic Bottlenecks Have the Strongest Impact

Traffic congestion isn’t spread out equally throughout the country. ATRI’s 2016 report reveals that several states have noticeably more bottlenecks than others, which can disproportionately affect drivers in those states. Texas held the number one spot for worst congestion, followed by Florida, California, New York, and New Jersey.

Texas and Florida have such serious issues with bottlenecks that their roads account for over 15% of the total congestion costs of the entire United States. In addition, the top ten states (or 20%) in terms of highest congestion represent over 50% of the nation’s traffic-related transportation costs.

These traffic issues are especially pronounced in urban areas. Where truck drivers are required to travel city streets for shipments, deliveries can frequently come to a standstill.

As for the worst highways for traffic congestion in 2020, drivers will want to steer clear of 1-95 at SR 4 in Fort Lee, NJ, and the intersection of I-285 with I-85 in Atlanta, GA.

Nashville’s I-40 at I-440 E is another highway with peak average speeds of under 25 mph. In fact, this road’s traffic speed dropped by 12% compared to last year. The I-290 at I-94 in Chicago, IL, and the I-35 in Austin, TX are two of the slowest roads during rush hour, clocking in at around 16 mph.

What Companies Can Do To Reduce the Operational Costs of Trucking

Transportation businesses can use modern technology to avoid traffic congestion. Here are a few other ways to minimize the impact of heavy traffic on the cost of trucking:

• GPS tracking: GPS technology is a great help for drivers. In real-time, they can see the current position of their trucks and route options for reaching the destination. In tight urban environments, the ability to select alternative streets and still arrive smoothly can save significant time on delivery.

• Dynamic routing: Advanced software can help trucking companies avoid traffic in several ways. In a live environment, fleet managers can view the progress of their drivers and relay instructions regarding the best routes. Dynamic routing also stores valuable statistics that may reveal frequent bottlenecks that are best avoided. It may be possible to reroute and reschedule pickups on the fly to maximize the economic benefits of each load.

• Traffic monitoring services: Some organizations offer 24/7 traffic monitoring and minute-by-minute weather updates. Depending on the size of the fleet, investing in these solutions may lead to savings of time and money. With this technology, drivers can potentially bypass roadway accidents, dangerous weather, and traffic congestion by altering course ahead of time.

Mobile technology makes it possible for drivers and fleet managers to stay in contact via the Internet virtually 100% of the time. This allows for careful coordination of routes and deliveries.

What the Trucking Industry Can Do About Traffic Congestion

To enact real solutions for infrastructure, financing, and legislation, lawmakers have to be involved in the problem of congestion. Trucking industry organizations may have success lobbying city, state, and federal governments regarding these needed changes.

One option for reducing rush-hour traffic congestion on key routes is to implement stronger road toll pricing during peak hours. Another possibility is to construct bypasses for trucking vehicles on congested highways and in urban areas. This would be especially beneficial for massive cities with industrial manufacturing districts and specific areas that receive a heavy volume of shipments.

Regardless of the solution chosen, one thing is certain: something has to change. The industry can’t keep pace with the rising cost of trucking due to traffic. Trucking is the backbone of the U.S. economy, so it’s not strange to expect agencies at every level to develop a plan of action regarding truck drivers and traffic congestion.

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Written by: Kate Williams

April 09, 2020

While American truck drivers rise up to do their patriotic duty of delivering essential goods and products to communities, cybercriminals have also been hard at work. Digital thieves launched an unprecedented number of coronavirus-themed scams targeting an anxious and information-starved public.

Even though it may seem obscene even for criminals during the COVID-19 crisis, the hard-working men and women of the road are prime targets for cybercriminals, given the work away from home and the heightened stress levels precipitated by the pandemic. All individuals within the trucking industry should consider the following public service information to prevent our valued truckers from being ripped off by digital bandits.

What Exactly Is Cybercrime & Why Are Truckers Targets?

We all hear about the massive hacks that make splashy headlines in the news and on social media. Big corporations such as Equifax suffer cybersecurity breaches, and digital thieves pilfer off hundreds of millions in valuable data. The general public often arrives at two erroneous conclusions about these massive hacks. The first is that hackers only target major corporations to score big payoffs. The second misconception is that they don’t target everyday people. Neither could be further from the truth.

Common petty cybercriminals frequently orchestrate a series of schemes that cast a wide net. They are generally looking for someone to make an online mistake that allows them to penetrate an electronic device and swipe your personal data, such as Social Security numbers, credit card information, and bank accounts, among others. Most are nickel-and-dime criminals looking to scam what is commonly called the “low hanging fruit.” Any individual or small business that lacks firewalls, up-to-date antivirus software, fully patched applications, or simply clicks on the wrong link qualifies as an online scammer’s mark.

This information is timely and compelling given that cybercriminals have ramped up their efforts to ensnare many people working remotely with sophisticated COVID-19 schemes.

What Truckers Should Know About COVID-19 Schemes

According to a recent cybersecurity report by Atlas VPN, a surge in phony coronavirus websites were launched beginning in January. According to Atlas data, upwards of 150,000 websites were created in January. By March, that number had skyrocketed to more than 500,000 monthly, and a large number are scams.

“I believe that hackers identified coronavirus as something users are desperate to find information on,” Atlas VPN COO Rachel Welch reportedly stated. “Panic leads to irrational thinking, and people forget the basics of cybersecurity. Users then download malicious files or try to purchase in-demand items from unsafe websites, in result becoming victims of scams.”

Since the pandemic began, scam site activation has surged by more than 350 percent. Many pander overnight testing kits, immunity boosters, or pretend to be legitimate health agencies and media outlets.

The basic scam is to attract people looking for information and help. Once credit card or other personal information has been entered, the sites prompt you to click on a link. That’s when malicious software seizes control of your device or steals information that can be sold on the dark web.

When people visit a phony website, the cybersecurity industry calls that scam “spear phishing.” But the method that has proven most effective by online thieves is emails laced with malicious software, commonly called “phishing.” These are dangerous COVID-19 email phishing schemes that are being deployed.

• Health & Wellness Emails: If an unexpected email pops up offering cures, vaccines, testing kits, or home HVAC cleansing, among others, promptly delete it. COVID-19 scams work when people believe a product or service will help them through the crisis. Hackers are leveraging uncertainty and anxiety.
• Official Emails: Digital con artists have managed to send out bulk emails that appear almost identical to prominent government and health agencies such as the CDC. The chances of the average trucker receiving direct communication from one of these agencies are next to zero. Delete the message and visit only official websites such as the CDC for pertinent information.
• Workplace Emails: One of the more sophisticated schemes cybercriminals use is to send workers and independent contractors an email that appears to be from management. Although sometimes difficult to distinguish from an authentic message, it will likely ask you to download a file or click through to the your trucking company's website. If something seems suspicious, call the sender and verify it’s legitimate before moving forward.
• News Alerts & Information: Breaking news and information about the COVID-19 crisis has been an effective way to entice people to click on links. Some of the ploys include having lists of infected people or claim one of your loved ones is in the hospital. The bottom line is to always think before you click.  

Since the health crisis began, an increased number of companies have converted their brick-and-mortar businesses to a remote workforce. This encouraged hackers to take a big swing with phishing bats because they are acutely aware new online workers are likely to make cybersecurity mistakes. 

As we all know, CDL drivers are inherently a remote workforce. Truckers routinely conduct remote banking, accounting, bill-paying, and access credit cards from the road. With an uptick in phishing and spear phishing scams, truckers are tasked with increased diligence.

Telltale Signs of Phishing Scams

There are two distinct types of cybercriminals launching coronavirus-themed and other schemes. One set is considered highly sophisticated and savvy con artists. The others are nothing more than digital thugs. The first group sends out smartly crafted and clever emails that are difficult to detect. The second group, not so much. These are little mistakes common hackers make that can give their email scam away.

• Poor Grammar: Many originate in countries that are not using their native language.
• General Names: Many will call you “friend” or “resident.” That’s because they are casting a wide net and don’t know you personally.
• Links & Files: For the phishing scheme to work, hackers need you to download a file or click on a link. Simply do not do it.
• Call To Action: Anytime you are asked to provide information or take an action, that’s the first step to getting tripped up. It’s also a sign the email is a scam.

Keep in mind that if something online or in an email looks too good to be true, click delete. It’s also essential to know that websites and emails are not the only delivery methods hackers are using so also beware of any atypical text messages you may receive during this period.

While it is unfortunate that there are individuals who prey on people during times of distress, we hope this basic cybersecurity information proves helpful and increases your overall awareness. For more truck driving news, information, or trucking job opportunities, visit CDLjobs.com. It’s a secure website.

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Written by: Kate Williams

March 31, 2020

As a truck driver, getting your cargo from point A to point B safely is perhaps your most important responsibility. To do so, you need to be awake, alert and focused. There are many hazards on the road, the vast majority of which can be avoided by a focused driver. However, schedule demands can sometimes make it difficult to feel fully alert. Below are some tips on how to stay focused when driving.

Get Plenty of Rest

It probably comes as no surprise that getting sufficient rest is an important factor in staying focused on the road. However, a lot of truck drivers are woefully deficient in this department.

To ensure you are getting a proper night of sleep, be diligent about following a regular sleep schedule. Many people think that they can skimp on rest is a mistake. Going to bed at a consistent time and getting eight hours of sleep is a must for drivers. In fact, it is a legally protected right.

Also, strongly consider establishing a nighttime ritual. In other words, do the same activities every night before bed such as brushing your teeth and reading a book. Finally, make sure your cab is a comfortable temperature for sleeping.

Reduce Your Caffeine Intake

Drinking caffeine can be an excellent way to stay awake, but you may not realize that you are probably drinking too much.

After a certain point, caffeine actually reduces your focus. Experts suggest that 400 milligrams of caffeine is the upper limit. That is about four cups of coffee per day. If you are drinking more than this, cut back.

Additionally, if you ever feel jittery or “wired” from caffeine, you are definitely drinking too much. There are much better ways to stay awake.

Choose the Right Tunes

Turning on your favorite music while you drive can help you stay mentally active without distracting yourself from the road. Although podcasts and other forms of audio entertainment can be invigorating, they can also be distracting. However, your favorite music will energize you without taking your mind off the road.

Learn the Route Before You Leave

Getting lost is a good way to quickly wear yourself out. It is stressful and requires a lot of mental focus. Managing your energy is the key to stay focused and alert when driving.

So, learn your route before you set out. Ideally, program it into your navigation system to make finding your way even easier. You may think that you have a good enough sense of direction to not need this preparation. However, why should you do unnecessary work while driving? Prepare before leaving and make your trip easier.

Get Enough Exercise

Daily vigorous exercise is very good for your health can stop you from getting so worn out while driving. Make sure you get out of your cab for some solid exercise every day. This could be taking a walk, doing some pushups, going for a job or any other activity. The goal should be to elevate your heart rate for about 30 minutes a day.

Eat a Healthy Diet

It probably comes as no surprise that your diet has a big impact on your ability to focus. Anyone who has felt sluggish after a heavy, greasy meal is familiar with this. Try reaching for healthy foods that are high in protein and fiber. These are some good examples:

• Nuts
• Protein bats
• Jerky
• Whole grains
• Fruits and vegetables

Take Breaks

Even when the schedule is tight, make time for a break. Research suggests that taking a break will make you feel more comfortable, relaxes and effective when driving. It is also a valuable opportunity for your mind to refocus.

Simply pulling over for a few minutes may be enough. It is also a good idea to stop and get out of your truck when you eat.

Have a Pre-Trip Ritual

As mentioned, having a nighttime ritual will help you sleep. Dong the same before you drive is also beneficial. When you do the same activities before driving, it lets your brain know that it is time to focus on the road.

You could do an inspection of your truck, get your seat in a comfortable position and put on your favorite driving jams. Whatever your ritual, practice it every time you are about to set out.

Use Hands-Free Tech

Distracted driving is one of the most dangerous situations on the road. It has been reported to be as dangerous are drinking and driving. Despite this, many motorists fiddle with the radio, watch videos and otherwise multitask while driving.

Focus only on driving whenever you can. If you need to make a call, change the music or update your navigation, either pull over or go hands-free whenever possible.

Keep Calm to stay Focused

Again, managing your energy is one of the most important ways to stay focused while driving. So, one of the most surprising answers to the question of how to stay focused when driving is to keep calm.

Whenever you get angry or tense on the road, you are exhausting your body both physically and mentally. There will always be bad and inattentive drivers on the road. There will also be people who are disrespectful of your truck. Focus on staying safe but let things go once they are over. When you stay calm, focused and collected, you will be a safer and happier driver.

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Written by: Kate Williams

March 18, 2020

The truck driver shortage has placed a difficult burden on America’s truck drivers. Truck accidents with fatalities and other difficult challenges demonstrate that the hard-working men and women of America’s roads and highways take considerable risks.

Every year, thousands of lives are lost to accidents involving semi-trucks. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, in 2018 there were 4,136 deaths associated with large trucks. This may be concerning to many truck drivers. Fortunately, knowing the numbers can help you be careful about avoiding the most common factors in trucking accidents.

Jump to Infographic: Statistics Point To Key Factors In Truck Accidents

Where Trucking Accidents Occur

Although the nature of truck driving jobs requires that truck drivers spend a lot more time on the road than the average passenger car driver, trucks are less likely to get into accidents. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the majority of fatalities involving a large truck are occupants of smaller passenger vehicles.

If we look back at incidents that occurred during the late 1970s, death tolls shot up from 4,305 in 1975 to 6,539 in 1979. Safety standards and policies helped to bring that number almost steadily down to a low of 3,147 in 2009 with truck occupant death declining to 14 percent; however, more recent reports available for 2018 show the incident rate has climbed to 4,136.

The reason passenger vehicle occupants suffer a high number of deaths is simple physics. When collisions occur, cars and other small vehicles are at a significant size and weight disadvantage. A rig often outweighs a passenger vehicle by 20-30 times. Since semi-trucks have much higher ground clearance, a small car can basically be swallowed up under the trailer.

Braking capabilities also differ greatly. A Mini Cooper may be able to stop on a dime. A fully loaded 18-wheeler requires anywhere from 20-40 percent more distant to affect a complete stop. Bad weather conditions can also make braking and slowing riskier.

Truck driving accidents are more likely to occur on smaller roads. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 381,714 accidents involving trucks happened on non-interstate roads in 2018. By comparison, only 117,356 happened on interstates.

The overwhelming majority of all accidents were property-damage-only (387,863 of 499,070). Accidents on interstates were slightly more likely to be fatal at a rate of 1% compared to 0.84% on non-interstates. This is likely due to the higher speeds.

Most and Least Dangerous States

Clearly, some states are safer than others to drive in. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in 2018 the number of fatal crashes per 100,000 people ranged from 4.4 (in D.C.) to 22.2 (in Mississippi). These were the five best states for fatal crash rates with their rate per 100,000 people and total fatal crashes:

• District of Columbia - 4.4 (30 total)
• New York – 4.8 (889 total)
• Massachusetts - 5.2 (343 total)
• Rhode Island - 5.6 (56 total)
• New Jersey - 6.3 (525 total)

These were the five worst states for fatal crashes:

• New Mexico – 18.7 (350 total)
• New Mexico – 18.7 (350 total)
• Alabama – 19.5 (876 total)
• South Carolina – 20.4 (970 total)
• Mississippi – 22.2 (597 total)

Factors in Truck Accidents

Accidents can be caused by all manner of factors. Passenger vehicle driver error was involved in about half of all truck driving accidents and truck driver error in about a third of crashes. Keep in mind that multiple factors may be involved in each crash.

• Speeding: Unsurprisingly, speeding is a factor in a large number of crashes. It was involved in over a quarter of all fatal accidents in 2018. Not only does speeding increase the likelihood of an accident, but it also increases the severity. Be cautious about your speeds and avoid rushing. It is better to be late to a destination than to never make it at all.
• Distraction: A 2009 study by the FMCSA discovered that distraction was involved in 71% of commercial vehicle crashes. That incredible number underscores how significant a problem distracted driving is. Today more people have smartphones than in 2009, increasing the likelihood of distraction on the road.
• Fatigue: The federal government imposes strict rules about when drivers can work and for how long. Unfortunately, many people try to skirt around the rules. Take them seriously as fatigue is a major component in crashes.
• Substance Abuse: Sadly, substance abuse is an all too common problem. Around a quarter of all crashes involve illegal or prescription drug use. Substances like drugs and alcohol can significantly impair your ability to drive. Be safe and stay sober.
• Blind Spots: Although training to check blind spots is fundamental, small vehicles, motorcycles and weaving drivers pose a significant challenge for truckers. Blind spots contributed at a rate of 14 percent.
• Unfamiliar Roadways: Contributing to 22 percent of all accidents, decision-making can be slowed when attempting to navigate new highways and roads.

Mechanical Issues Involved in Accidents

Only around 5% of the large trucks that got into fatal crashes in 2017 had a vehicle-related factor. Nearly all truck accidents were caused by driver-related factors or outside circumstances. Nonetheless, regular semi-truck maintenance can help to minimize the likelihood of a crash.

Tires were the most common cause of accidents. Anyone who has seen the aftermath of a truck blowout on the highway knows how serious these problems can be. Make sure to check tire pressure often and change tires whenever you notice any damage.

The brake system was the second most common vehicle-related factor in crashes. This was a factor in 49 fatal crashes in 2017. It is more common to have non-fatal crashes, however. Make sure to get brake services often.

Steering and suspension issues were also common factors. However, this was involved in only 0.1% of all fatal truck crashes.

Keeping your truck well maintained is a smart move no matter what. Despite that, taking care of yourself and avoiding driving while tired, distracted or under the influence are even more important. Stay safe on the roads.

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Written by: Kate Williams

March 17, 2020

The Department of Transportation recently issued a warning to truck drivers that the use of CBD products may result in you getting sidelined.

The recent memo was released to clarify widespread confusion about the legality and appropriateness of CBD-infused products. Many of these loosely regulated oils and edibles may not be suitable for transportation professionals, including CDL holders, because they may carry a higher than anticipated level of THC.

Although CBD has been a hot trending item because its THC levels are below many state and federal limits, use may put a trucker’s license at risk. It's imperative that the hard-working men and women of the road know about and fully understand CBD and the DOT’s position.  

What Is CBD?

It’s evident to truckers crisscrossing the nation that CBD must be legal to use. Signs are lit up in convenience stores and fueling stations on and off just about every major highway. Needless to say, that must pique the curiosity of CDL holders about why the DOT has issued a warning for safety-sensitive transportation professionals. The reason stems from the fact that CBD products are more closely linked to marijuana than some realize.

CBD is the term used to market “cannabidiol.” It ranks among many chemical compounds in the so-called cannabis plant family. This natural substance has been mass-produced and blended into oils and food-based items as an “edible.” What distinguished CBD from its marijuana cousin is tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. While THC has a psychoactive effect when smoked or imbibed as an edible, CBD that adheres to regulatory guidelines does not. As a natural substance derived from hemp, CBD reportedly has a relaxing effect but does not necessarily make you “high” the way marijuana may, according to Live Science.

Why Is CBD So Popular?

Despite all of our technological advancements, everyday people continue to struggle with stress and anxiety. According to a study conducted by the National Health Institutes’ Center for Biotechnology, CBD reduces anxiety, stress, and fixation on self-deprecating thoughts. The New England Journal of Medicine agrees that the compound has health benefits that may include reducing seizures, improving arthritis pain management, and many others.

Part of the popularity and growth of the CBD industry has been people using this natural compound to avoid risky pain killers and potentially addictive pharmaceuticals. On the one hand, CBD industry professionals tout its health and wellness benefits. But on the other, many are concerned that the industry remains poorly regulated, and that makes mass-marketed CBD products risky for transportation professionals.

Why are CBD Products Risky for Truck Drivers?

The primary risk to truck drivers using CBD products is testing positive for THC. Although the CBD industry widely claims that oils and other edibles are not the same as marijuana, many contain at least trace amounts of THC, the main mind-altering ingredient in marijuana.

That claim tends to be based on the fact that “pot” comes from the marijuana plant, while CBD is extracted from hemp. But both plants are in the cannabis family, and both have THC in their makeup. In practical terms, hemp is the same type of plant as marijuana, but it has 0.3 percent THC. The more significant problem, however, is a lack of oversight.

It may shock consumers to discover that many CBD products are generally not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a controlled substance.

“The Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, Pub. L. 115-334, (Farm Bill) removed hemp from the definition of marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act. Under the Farm Bill, hemp-derived products containing a concentration of up to 0.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are not controlled substances,” the DOT noted in a February notice on Drug and Alcohol Compliance.

That’s largely why labeling, potency, and trace amounts of THC are inconsistent among products and manufacturers. Another issue that consumers may or may not be aware of is the so-called “Full Spectrum” CBD products.

A full-spectrum CBD oil can be created by employing the same type of extraction process used in hemp, but to a marijuana plant instead. When manufacturers take this route, they bring together the three highly sought after compounds of cannabis-family that include:

• Cannabinoids
• Terpenes
• Flavonoids

Although even a full spectrum CBD product is expected to have no more than 0.3 percent THC, according to federal guidelines, many exceed that threshold without noting it on the label.

Where Does the DOT Stand on Truck Drivers Using CBD?

Due to concerns that professional truckers would be sidelined because inconsistent CBD products could lead to a positive marijuana drug test, the DOT released a memo to clarify its position. The memo states:

1. The Department of Transportation requires testing for marijuana and not CBD.
2. The labeling of many CBD products may be misleading because the products could contain higher levels of THC than what the product label states. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not currently certify the levels of THC in CBD products, so there is no Federal oversight to ensure that the labels are accurate.
3. The Department of Transportation’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulation, Part 40, does not authorize the use of Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.  Furthermore, CBD use is not a legitimate medical explanation for a laboratory-confirmed marijuana positive result. Therefore, Medical Review Officers will verify a drug test confirmed at the appropriate cutoffs as positive, even if an employee claims they only used a CBD product.

The DOT also points out that the FDA has issued its own warnings about these products.

How Could CBD Impact a CDL Drug Test?

Veteran truckers may already know that trucking companies require a negative drug test before allowing a new employee to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Carriers must also require a drug and alcohol test in the event of a significant accident. Other testing includes the following, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

• Random Tests: These may be administered throughout the year.
• Reasonable Suspicion: Employers are required to immediately have a trucker tested if the drivers “appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”
• Return to Duty: Drivers who fail or refuse a drug or alcohol test are required to pass one before resuming duties.
• Follow-Up Testing: Additional testing may be conducted for up to four years after failing or refusing a drug test.

Given that CBD products vary in strength, are poorly regulated, and contain at least trace amounts of THC, they put a professional truck driver’s CDL at risk. The lure of a relaxing legal compound that a driver could use off duty is grossly outweighed by the risk of losing your salary.

It is crucial for all truck drivers to follow safe, secure driving practices, and understand that it’s essential to follow federal regulations. The DOT took the lead by issuing guidance to help hard-working CDL professionals understand the risk associated with CBD. For more information about trucking safety, news, and high-paying positions, visit CDLjobs.com.

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Written by: Kate Williams

March 16, 2020

Employment trends can be unpredictable, but there's one that seems to be solid across industries, and that is the push to recruit more women into jobs that have traditionally been stereotyped as male driven. While women in trucking is hardly a new phenomenon, the female drivers who have opted to enter this field in the past have been mavericks who often embraced unconventional ways of doing things.

You might find it surprising that it's so important to recruit women now, when this field remained dominated by men for so long. The reason for the pivot isn't complex, and it isn't even really due to social changes. It's a pivot by necessity. Since 2015, there has been a notable shortage of truck drivers across all niches within the field. For over a decade before that, driver turnover was at a high point relative to the last 50 years. At the same time, the demand for drivers has been on the rise this entire time, as more and more consumer shopping is done online, increasing the demand for shipping in all its forms.

Three years of driver shortages led to a massive push by the trucking industry to recruit women, which has resulted in a job market women have begun to enjoy more frequently since 2018.

What Makes Truck Driving Attractive To Women?

There are quite a few perks of this career choice that make it attractive to women looking to build a business or chart a career path with upward mobility.

• Professional development and training on different types of heavy equipment and trailer configurations
• Variety among trucking jobs available, from short-distance delivery to long-haul cargo
• Full benefits from employers or a healthy freelance market for entrepreneurs
• Easy paths to becoming an owner-operator
• Options that work with the patterns of your lifestyle, from home every night to one week in three
• Competitive salaries

Trucking is one of the few jobs with a reliable path to income that gives the worker the independence to get the job done with little micromanagement or direct oversight. There are best practices to learn, but a unique problem-solving style is valued in trucking in ways that it typically is not in other industries.

That makes it attractive for anyone looking for a job that assumes your competence, but especially for people who have traditionally been corralled into jobs that are highly repetitive, with processes that restrict your choice of methods for dealing with problems. Even short-range drivers using company vehicles wind up having to call their shots regularly to deliver shipments undamaged and on-time.

Trucking Companies are Recruiting Women Drivers

While more women are becoming interested in truck driving jobs, driver recruiters are also taking note of studies, such as that by Omnitracs, which focus on how women truck drivers are able to help carriers boost profitability. 

• Employee Turnover - Historically, driver turnover for large fleets in the trucking industry runs in the mid- to -upper 90th percentile, according to studies by the American Trucking Associations (ATA). However, the retention rate for women truck drivers is much higher, reflecting the loyalty of women more likely to remain with one trucking company for a longer period of time. The ability to retain women truck drivers and avoid turnover and retraining costs is viewed quite favorably by carriers in the truckload industry.

• Women Truck Drivers are involved in Fewer Preventable Accidents - Despite sterotypes to the contrary, statistically women truck drivers are involved in fewer accidents, including semi rollovers and rear-end collisions. Trucking companies looking to boost their profits by curtailing insurance and litigation costs should take note of the reliability and safety records being compiled by women in the truck driving workforce.

• More Miles Logged - The study also shows that women in trucking are logging more miles. Obviously, when drivers are able to keep the wheels turning, they are able to earn more money for themselves and their employer.

While there remains a huge gender gap among male and female drivers in the truckling industry, trucking companies are becoming keenly aware that hiring women drivers is a viable and responsible option for reducing their driver shortage and boosting profitability.

Learn More About the Trucking Industry

Women In Trucking is a non-profit organization which works to minimize the obstacles women interested in trucking may face. They serve as a resource for women truck drivers to encourage employment, increase job opportunities and improve working conditions for women drivers.

The future looks bright for women in trucking, because even if the number of drivers, male or female, entering the field increases in the coming years, it will have a hard time keeping up with the rate of driver retirement.Retirement numbers have been increasing for years, and are likely to keep doing so with the aging workforce within the industy.

Women do not have to have a substantial amount of brute force to handle a semi-truck and have a successful career as a driver. Trucking equipment improvements and modifications, such as automatic transmissions, have made trucking today less difficult than many years past. Whether you're looking to work in local delivery, or you want to see the country, trucking companies have options for practically everyone who has a passion to drive.

Search for Trucking Jobs

If you’re a woman ready to get started in the trucking industry, you’ve come to the right place. Once you have a CDL license, you can start searching for truck driving jobs. You can find a range of local, regional, dedicated, and OTR trucking opportunities across the country.

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Written by: Kate Williams

March 13, 2020

While 2019 appeared to be a banner year for the economy, the rate of trucking company closures was disheartening. Approximately 800 freight-hauling companies closed in 2019, more than double the previous year, along with the largest bankruptcy in the industry to date.  

“This isn't the first time this year we've seen a trucking company fail and drivers abandoned. That's been happening a lot in 2019,” Gaines Law Group transportation attorney Cassandra Gaines reportedly said. “Celadon is a little bit of a different story — it's hard to tell how much that had to do with fraud and how much to do with our market.”

Ranked among the largest trucking companies in all of North America, Celadon had a working fleet upwards of 3,300 tractors and about 10,000 trailers. The abrupt closure left 4,000 men and women without jobs, and truckers searching for available positions and calling friends in the industry for short-term work.

“So, every company driver and owner-operator lost our jobs today without being notified about the closing of the doors of this mega-company,” trucker Roderick Orr reportedly posted on social media about the incident. “A lot of people I know are stuck all around the country trying to get home and look for another job.”

Why Are More Trucking Companies Closing?

In 2018, trucking companies enjoyed strong demand, and robust shipping rates saw only 310 companies close, with a modest 2,800 trucks being sidelined. Even with stringent on-duty regulations and electronic monitoring, freight haulers were able to tighten capacity and move profits forward. But issues such as higher insurance rates raised expenses, and the tariff war with China reportedly softened demand for goods and products.

Fleetwood Transportation, for example, shuttered operations on Dec. 31, 2019, pointing to rising insurance costs as a primary reason. The closure put 240 CDL professionals out of work. According to Freight Waves, the Fleetwood board chairman sent out a memo stating the company was unable to secure coverage.

“Insurance carriers know that if there is a fatality involving a truck, juries will be sympathetic towards the (non-trucking) injured party and may reward damages in the nuclear category regardless of fault,” Chad Eichelberger, founder of trucking industry insurance provider Reliance Partners, reportedly said.

As 2020 rolls out, freight hauling organizations can anticipate that premiums are likely to triple if a fatal accident occurs. Even small carriers with an unblemished record often pay $5,000 to $7,000 per truck for coverage. Big metropolitan-based trucking companies can spend upwards of 30 percent more on higher rates.

U.S. farmers, manufacturers, and ultimately consumers have suffered considerably from the trade war initiated by the Trump administration and its imposition of tariffs against China in 2018. While a "cease-fire" of sorts was initiated with a new trade agreement signed in January 2020, it does little to reduce the overall tariff levels and appears unlikely to affect the slowing of economic growth that has depressed the trucking industry within the United States.

Additionally, the outbreak of Coronavirus and has created a worldwide economic downturn. This incident highlights that trucking industry companies remain vulnerable to disruption they have little to no control over.

Signs a trucking Company Closure may be Ahead

A wide range of factors can impact the weekly salaries of truck drivers. What makes that a tough pill to swallow is that the men and women of the roadshow up each day to deliver the goods and materials that keep our country running. In these uncertain times, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and watch for indicators of a carrier's faltering. You may discover that the earliest signs are subtle, but they can become increasingly apparent as a carrier nears the end.

Driver & Other Worker Perks Eliminated

Upper management will be the first to look at the books and recognize business is backsliding. The folks in the suits are unlikely to chop their bonuses or roll back the expensive lunches as the first line of defense. Companies usually start chipping away at the little things that buoyed employee loyalty. These may include free coffee in the breakroom, a paid day off on your birthday, or throwing a few overtime hours in the warehouse. When your employer cuts seemingly inexpensive benefits, there may be a bigger money problem.

Vendors Complain About Late Payments

When you see the IT people hanging around looking for a check or the fuel station your company regularly uses is complaining about their monthly installment, that’s a telltale sign the company is moving money around to weather a financial storm. Don’t be surprised if administrators toe the company line that there was a bookkeeping error, and all is well. When vendors aren’t getting paid on time, there’s usually a revenue shortfall.

Middle Management Starts Interviewing Elsewhere

Management folks are not on the same career track as truckers. The younger ones, usually at the tail end of management, often stay in one position until they gain enough experience to apply for a better-paying job. These folks come and go. But the ones who have been with the company for a considerable amount of time, with roots in the community, may leave because they see that the ship is sinking. If more than one middle management person starts interviewing, they probably know something the truck drivers do not.

Closed Door Meetings

When a crisis hits any company, secretive meetings take place. Administrators will literally close the doors knowing tempers are going to flare. The last thing upper management wants is to cause panic and for drivers to find another trucking job while they still need your labor. If something seems amiss and secrets are being kept, it may be time to research jobs boards such as CDLjobs.com to see what jobs fit your needs. Better to know your industry value and be prepared than suffer short-term unemployment.

Inconsistent Workflow

Truckers always know when the company is busy. Your trailer is at capacity, and they are calling in stop-gap help. Then there are the typical seasonal slowdowns. But when the work cycle seems unusually slow or spotty, trust your instincts. Houston, we may have a problem.

While those signs are certainly reason for concern, others are unmistakable. When your employer enters the death throes, these are reasons to promptly consider applying for a new truck driving job.

Your Fuel Card Gets Declined

The fuel card is the lifeblood of long-haul delivery. If your card gets declined and your boss cannot rectify the issue over the phone quickly, that may mean they don’t have the operational cash to continue business for much longer.

Your Paycheck Bounces

Many of the end-of-days signs have to do with financial shortages. If your money isn’t downloaded electronically into your account or a physical check is no good, the party may be over. Do what you can to recover the revenue and find another position.

Your Employer Files for Bankruptcy

When large freight outfits file for bankruptcy, there is likely to be some industry news circulating. Smaller companies may fly under the radar to some degree. It’s not unusual for a business to file Chapter 11, which means they are “reorganizing.” Vendors and those the company owe money to will be notified, and drivers are likely to know relatively quickly. When a company files Chapter 11, work is unlikely to stop right away. And, the company may rebound from the financial issue. By that same token, consider your own future.

Know Your Truck Driver Career Options At All Times

The recent closures have left too many of our valued truck drivers looking for work without notice. This unfair practice by some employers demonstrates that CDL professionals would be wise to keep their eyes and ears open on the job, as well as periodically check on the opportunities emerging within the trucking industry.

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Written by: Kate Williams

March 03, 2020

Driving a truck is not typically thought of as being the healthiest profession. You are sitting for long periods, not getting many exercise opportunities, and often eating less-than-healthy foods from convenience stores and truck stops. Employing good nutrition for truckers is hard. However, just because there are challenges to being a truck driver doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a healthy lifestyle.

First, you can hop out of your cab for rigorous exercise every day. Second, you can choose some better meals and drinks. If you’ve ever looked up tips on nutrition for truckers, you may have found plenty of tips on healthy food and recipes. However, it can be harder to find useful information about what you should and should not be drinking.

What Unhealthy Drinks You Should Avoid

When it comes to beverages, staying healthy is as much about what you shouldn’t drink as what you should. These are some examples of what you will want to avoid on the road:

• Energy Drinks: Most of these are loaded with sugar, caffeine and other energy-boosting ingredients. This is probably the worst choice of drink for a pick-me-up. Any claims of health benefits are dubious at best. The harm, conversely, is well-established. Just skip these drinks.
• Soda: In a similar vein to energy drinks, soda is something you should skip. They are calorie-dense and filled with sugar. Even diet sodas are associated with diabetes and weight gain. These will also make you crash while you are driving.
• Alcohol: Obviously, you shouldn’t be drinking any alcohol when you are driving. However, it is a good idea to avoid it even when you are stopped for the night. While there is nothing wrong with relaxing with a cold one, moderation is essential. Overconsumption is bad for your health and can be dangerous if you are driving hungover.

What You Should Drink

There are a handful of drinks that you should strongly consider drinking while on the road. If you are thirsty, these should be your top options:

• Water: H2O is probably the single most important beverage to drink. You need water to stay healthy. It is very easy to get dehydrated on the road and you may not notice right away. Proper hydration can help you stay alert and focused. If you need a drink, this should be your go-to.
• Carbonated Water: Consider drinking a little carbonated water with your meals. This is a good way to feel a little fuller while eating less. Although not quite as good as still water, this is substantially better than soda.
• Milk: Having a glass of milk every day can help you get potassium, protein, calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients. If you find that dairy doesn’t sit well, consider reaching for some lactose-free milk.
• Tea: If you need a caffeinated beverage, tea is the best option. It has less caffeine than energy drinks or coffee. Brew some for yourself with no added sugar for the best possible benefits.

What You Should Moderate

Of course, not every drink choice is black and white. There are some you can enjoy in moderation. These are a few drinks that you can enjoy but shouldn’t overindulge in:

• Coffee: When you need to stay awake for your drive, coffee is the obvious choice. It is okay to drink a little, especially if you skip the sugar or sweetener. However, try to limit yourself to 400 milligrams of coffee per day (there’s a little under 100 mg in a standard cup of coffee).
• Juice: Many people think that fruit juice should be super healthy. However, it has a lot of sugar and many of the nutrients are lost in the juicing process. This is a much better choice than soda or other artificial flavored drinks, however it should be enjoyed in moderation.
• Smoothies: If you are struggling to get enough fruits and vegetables, a smoothie may seem like the obvious choice. However, if you have too many sweet add-ons, you can quickly negate the positive benefits. Again, try to limit these and make them yourself, if possible. Homemade is almost always healthier.
• Sports Drinks: The electrolytes and sugar in sports drinks can be helpful for athletes when they have been training hard. However, they are not so helpful for truck drivers. Unless you are working up a serious sweat, you are most likely just adding sugar to your diet unnecessarily. Drinking one occasionally is okay but keep them limited.

Managing Your Drink Choices

To help ensure that you reach for the right drinks, stock your cab with plenty of water. Consider getting some appliances you can run on your auxiliary power to make tea, smoothies, and other healthier options. It is easier to make the right beverage choices when you make healthy ones as convenient as possible. Stocking your cab right is the key to nutrition for truckers!