"Land Line Now" is the first daily news and information program designed specifically for America's truck drivers.
NHTSA has taken a big step toward a rule to require automatic emergency braking – or AEB – on passenger cars and light trucks; meanwhile, the same agency has launched an investigation into that very technology. Also, development continues on the new PC-12 engine oil category. We recently spoke with the American Petroleum Institute about what consumers can expect from this new category of oil. And Marty Ellis has been running into more drivers who are being paid through a 1099, even when they don't own the truck they're driving. 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – What you can expect from the new PC-12 engine oil 24:52 – A big step toward an AEB mandate 39:36 – Questions about 1099 pay for drivers
Criminals have set their sights on truckers in 2023. Cargo theft and fraud schemes have skyrocketed over the first five months of the year. Keith Lewis of CargoNet tells us what's behind the spike – and what you can do to protect yourself. Also, a decrease in the number of loads posted on the MembersEdge load board, and an increase in the number of trucks posted. We'll have all the details with DAT in today's Market Update – including one hot market to watch. And how brokers pay truckers has been an ongoing issue in the industry. But one trucker who stopped in to see Marty Ellis recently had a very unusual idea of how that process could work. 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – What's behind the surge in cargo thefts 24:52 – A lull in loads 39:36 – Flat rate brokers?
The surging popularity of electric and hybrid vehicles has state officials throughout the country taking steps to capture needed transportation revenue. Also, OOIDA board members fight for the rights of truckers is many different ways, including representing on different regulatory and industry boards. We'll talk with some of those board members about the importance of having a seat at the table when decisions are being made. And the viscosity of your oil plays an important role. Nick Rivera of Mobil Delvac tells us why, breaks down the different grades on the market, and explains how to pick the correct viscosity for your needs. 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – Representing truckers on regulatory boards 24:52 – The importance of viscosity 39:36 – Catching revenue from electric vehicles
With a vote in the House, Congress sends a strong “no” to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding its recent emission regulation. Also, keeping your mental health in check is just as important as your pre-trip inspection. We'll speak with a licensed therapist about her approach to offering counseling services to men and women behind the wheel. And we'll hear from Missouri's DOT Commercial Motor Vehicle Program Manager. She recently spoke with us about her role, and the efforts underway to make Missouri's roads as safe as possible. By now, most people involved in trucking have heard of so-called nuclear verdicts. One recent case in that vein caught Marty Ellis's attention, just as it's caught the attention of people throughout the trucking industry. 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – Tending to your mental health 24:52 – Making Missouri's roads safe 39:36 – Concern over a nuclear verdict
June is shaping up to be a busy month for truck shows around the U.S. We'll take a look at the American Truck Historical Society's National Convention and Antique Truck Show and SuperRigs, both of which are coming up in a couple of weeks. Also, blood pressure can tell you a lot about your health. We'll get some insight into blood pressure, what it should be and how to handle it, from Dr. John McElligott of the St. Christopher Fund. And one recent case of a nuclear verdict caught Marty Ellis's attention, just as it's caught the attention of people throughout the trucking industry. 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – June a busy month for truck shows 24:52 – Checking up on your blood pressure 39:36 – Concerns about nuclear verdicts
A new law in Washington state ensures that truckers will have access to restroom facilities at shippers and receivers there. Meanwhile, Utah's legislature has been called into a special session to deal with road maintenance needs. Also, the good news? We may have hit the bottom with regard to spot rates. The bad news? We may be stuck there for a while. Andrew King of the OOIDA Foundation stops by to talk about what the spot market. And Congress has said no to a new emission rule for large trucks from the Environmental Protection Agency. So what happens now? We'll discuss that – plus the latest on efforts to require underride guards. 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – What the spot market numbers are telling us 24:52 – Congress says no to emission rule 39:36 – Restroom bill is law in Washington state
The Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act passes out of a U.S. House committee and heads to the House floor after an overwhelming “yes” vote. Also, we'll speak with a licensed therapist about her specialized approach to offering counselling services to men and women behind the wheel. Load posts last week were the third highest in 2023. DAT breaks down the numbers and talks about the impact CVSA's international road check had on the spot market. And Marty Ellis discusses how many trucking companies have dropped out of the industry as a result of recent economic conditions. 0:00 – Panel votes “yes” on truck parking bill 10:12 – Taking care of your mental health 24:52 – How did Roadcheck affect the spot market? 39:36 – Some good new, and some bad news
The Texas House has advanced a bill that would authorize a vehicle mileage tax pilot program. Meanwhile, Missouri lawmakers have approved widening Interstate 70 between Kansas City and St. Louis. Also, as part of our celebration of OOIDA's 50th anniversary, we'll take a look at the Association's part in the ongoing battle to solve the truck parking crisis. And we'll take a look at heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems – also known as HVAC – and what you are looking for in terms of performance that would tell you whether your HVAC has a problem? 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – The battle for more truck parking 24:52 – Maintaining your HVAC 39:36 – Texas may test VMT
We were there as OOIDA's Lewie Pugh prepped for a congressional hearing – and today, we have a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into such an appearance. Also, getting in a crash with an uninsured or underinsured motorist can cause a lot of stress. We'll talk with Trina Skywalker and Trista Roby of OOIDA's Truck Insurance Department to discuss the importance of having additional coverage that will ensure you're covered if you get in a not-at-fault accident. And this week, a U.S. House committee will take up several important trucking issues – some good for truckers, some not so good. We'll review what's being considered and why it's important to you. 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – Behind the scenes of a congressional hearing 24:52 – Dealing with uninsured motorists 39:36 – Parking, younger drivers on the agenda in the House
We'll hear from Missouri's DOT commercial motor vehicle program manager on today's show. She recently spoke with us about her role, and the efforts underway to make Missouri's roads as safe as possible. Also, from a trucker reunited with his dog, to states with the worst truck parking availability, we'll tell you who in recent news has been good – and who's been bad – with some Roses and Razzberries. And plenty of people in trucking love the look of the classic long-nosed conventional semi. And they are beautiful machines. But for years, we've all heard over and over that they're going away – and then they come back for another round. 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – Making Missouri's roads safer 24:52 – Roses and Razzberries 39:36 – Long-nosed conventionals may never go away
Rep. Mike Bost of Illinois talks about the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act from his office in Washington, D.C. We'll also talk about how the topic of truck parking has become a bipartisan talking point among lawmakers. Also, FMCSA is in the process of developing a new statistical model for its CSA Safety Measurement System. And OOIDA has made its views known. And some states consider eliminating speed differentials on their highways, while others decide whether to raise the speed limit for all vehicles. Meanwhile, a new law in Georgia will allow certain loads to be heavier on roads throughout the state. 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – Bost fights the good fight on truck parking 24:52 – Trying to fix CSA 39:36 – Eliminating speed differentials
Reaction to the EPA's new heavy-duty emission standards has been swift. On Capitol Hill, Sen. Deb Fischer of Nebraska and U.S. Rep. Troy Nehls of Texas have been leading the charge against the new rules. Also, load and truck posts were both down in the second week of May. DAT says this month will be a pivotal one for the spot market. We'll have the latest details in today's Market Update with Robert Rouse. And the rules of the road are pretty clear. But it seems as if sometimes, states or other governments try to muck it up. Marty Ellis has a couple of particular examples on his mind. 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – Leading the fight against new EPA rules 24:52 – May a pivotal month for the freight market 39:36 – Mucking up the rules of the road
While FMCSA is forging ahead with a proposed speed limiter mandate, opposition is popping up inside and outside of Congress. Rep. Josh Brecheen of Oklahoma tells us more about his bill that would put a stop to a speed limiter mandate, while Allison Rivera of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association tell us why her organization is joining the fight. Also, FMCSA Administrator Robin Hutcheson gives us updates on proposals and studies being spearheaded by the agency. And many states have set up rules requiring moving over when another vehicle is stopped at the side of the road. Now, some states are modifying or expanding their rules. 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – FMCSA chief on speed limiters, broker abuse and more 24:52 – Speed limiter fight revs up in D.C. 39:36 – States modify move over rules
OOIDA has been working behind the scenes on a bill that would give truckers access to bathrooms at shippers and receivers – and on a bill that would pay truckers for all the time they spend working. Also, getting the word out about issues affecting truck drivers in the House and Senate is an important part of OOIDA's work. We'll talk with two of OOIDA executives to talk about the Call to Action list, and why it's so important that members make their voices heard. And May is Mental Health Awareness month. Therapist Buck Black joins our program today to share some tips on how you can make sure your mental health is in check. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:12 – Helping truckers make their voices heard. 24:52 – Checking up on your mental health. 39:36 – Bill aims to open the bathroom door for truckers.
Marty Ellis has been talking with drivers about a question: Are trucks getting too automated? Are automated manual transmissions, adaptive cruise control or automatic emergency brakes too much? Also, some carriers are enforcing ever stricter policies on several issues, including personal conveyance, the split sleeper berth provision and inward-facing cameras. And OOIDA's biannual board meeting recently took place. We'll hear from one of the members of the board to talk about his career – and his side job running an animal rescue and sanctuary. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:12 – Carriers cracking down on some policies. 24:52 – Bee Wings and Fuzzy Things. 39:36 – Are trucks getting too automated?
Congress heard from OOIDA and others about the challenges truck drivers have faced in trying to keep the supply chain moving. And the conversation included truck parking, speed limiters, driver compensation and more. Also, mental health and personal security for truck drivers are the topics of two new courses from Carriers Edge. We'll find out what the courses consist of and what drivers can expect learn. And state legislatures across the country are modifying move over laws, and in most cases, expanding the vehicles covered by those laws. 0:00 – Newscast 10:12 – Educating drivers on mental health 24:52 – Fixing problems in the supply chain 39:36 – Who to move over for, and when
Van and reefer rates continue to slide during the first week of May. We'll have more details on rates and how they're being affected by retailers positioning inventory for summer. Also, our ongoing series celebrating OOIDA's 50th anniversary continues with a look back at Land Line Magazine, the trusted source for trucking industry news, which first went to press shortly after the Association was founded. And like most truckers, Marty Ellis is getting ready for Roadcheck. Marty will share some of what he learned from a webinar on the topic and share a story of his own Roadcheck experience. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:12 – Looking back at Land Line Magazine. 24:52 – Summer approaches, but rates slide. 39:36 – Prepping for Roadcheck.
OOIDA has issued a Call to Action on a bill now before Congress, HR3039, that would prevent FMCSA from issuing a requirement for speed limiters in trucks. Also, truckers continue to have problems with brokers who are less than honest. Among the big problems is double brokering, but some truckers are confused about what the term means. We'll cover that, broker scams and more with Tom Crowley and Jim Jefferson of OOIDA's Business Services Department. And Arkansas is cracking down on work zone speeders, and they're going about it in a new way. Meanwhile, an effort in Texas would expand truck enforcement in several counties. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:12 – Call to Action: Stop speed limiter mandate. 24:52 – Truckers continue to struggle with broker problems. 39:36 – Arizona cracks down in work zones.
Later this week, the House Transportation Committee will discuss some of the current challenges faced by the supply chain. And OOIDA will be part of the discussion. We'll discuss what topics are likely to come up, and how they will affect you. Also, risk retention groups – what are they and how can be they beneficial? And when it comes to actual cash value verses stated limit policies it's important to know the difference between the two, and which will be the best option for you. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:12 – What is a risk retention group? 24:52 – Cash value vs. stated limit – what's the best option? 39:36 – Challenges in the supply chain.
A new bill in the U.S. House seeks to stop the FMCSA's proposed speed limiter mandate from picking up any more speed. In fact, it would stop it in its tracks. The bill's sponsor, Rep. Josh Brecheen joins us to talk about his concerns – and why he decided to take action. Also, from a new report detailing where the truck parking crisis might be most pronounced to a number of states taking action to address the problem where they can, Tyson Fisher of Land Line Magazine stops by for another edition of The Parking Zone. And Marty Ellis joins us to discuss a question: When is something an advertisement, and when is it litter? 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Congressman says ‘stop' to speed limit plan. 24:32 – The Parking Zone. 38:45 – Trash or treasure?
Legislation to put the brakes on a possible speed limiter regulation – a regulation that most truckers oppose – has been introduced in Congress. Meanwhile, the EPA held a hearing on its proposal to move toward electric trucks. Also, can someone on their own authority haul loads under someone else's authority? We'll get into the details with OOIDA's experts. And lawmakers in three states are working to pass more than $13 billion dollars for infrastructure work, while legislators in four other states are considering bills about use of the left lane on multiple-lane highways. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Running under another carrier's authority. 24:32 – Legislation would block speed limiter rule. 38:45 – States eye billions for infrastructure work.
May is shaping up to be a good month for spot freight. Produce harvests are picking up and construction activity is on the rise. Also, truck drivers got a winning shout-out on Jeopardy recently. We'll speak with a contestant who works with drivers and took a moment during the show to give thanks to our nation's unsung heroes. And over the years, the medical card has become a particular bugaboo for some truck drivers. But Marty Ellis had an experience with his medical card that's a new chapter in that tale. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:12 – Truckers get a shout out on famous game show. 24:52 – Finally, a good month for spot freight. 39:36 – A new kind of trouble with a medical card.
As they become more popular, are electric and hybrid vehicles paying their fair share for roads? Nine states are taking up the issue. Also, the new entrant safety audit is something that every motor carrier goes through at some point. But the key is having everything in order so you can get through it successfully. We'll get some advice. And when it comes to minor traffic tickets, is it better to just pay it and move on, or to fight it? Today, Jeff McConnell and James Mennella, the attorneys with Road Law, offer up the answer to that question and more. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – The ins and outs of the new entrant safety audit. 24:32 – When to fight and when to pay. 38:45 – Getting electric cars to pay their fair share.
The EPA has scheduled a hearing regarding proposed greenhouse gas emission standards that set the stage for electric trucks. Also, OOIDA changed the game when it came to truck insurance for owner-operators. We'll sit down with OOIDA's president and chief operating officer to learn the history of how the association paved the way for owner-operators to get coverage. And it's a new month with a new issue of Land Line Magazine hot off the press. We'll hear from the magazine staff about the topics in this month's issue, including the cover story on broker transparency. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Changing the game on truck insurance. 24:32 – Truckers call for broker transparency. 38:45 – EPA to hear from public on electric truck plan.
LLN (4/28/23) – The trends of yesteryear tend to come back around if you wait long enough – and that goes for trucks, too. The current trend: taking a brand-new truck and making it look like it was built in the '80s. Plus, the spot market landscape looks bleak, but there are some bright spots. And finally, noting the interesting things truckers are doing with their lights these days. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Looking for bright spots on the spot market. 24:32 – Truck designs: what's old is new again. 38:45 – Taking liberties with lighting.
Action in the U.S. Senate this week calls for turning back a key EPA regulation that affects the trucking industry – one that could cost truckers thousands. We'll explain what happened and why it's important. Also, an advisory committee that will aid the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on the issue of side underride guards will soon meet. And a bill designed to give truck drivers in Washington state access to restrooms at shippers and receivers they visit has finally been passed by state lawmakers. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Senate votes to turn back EPA rule. 24:32 – Underride committee set to meet. 38:45 – Washington state lawmakers OK restroom bill.
U.S. Rep. Kevin Kiley has expressed strong reservations Julie Su's nomination for labor secretary, and he hasn't changed his mind. Also, load posts increased last week. If things continue to track to 2019 levels, then DAT expects it'll see similar load volumes for the next couple of weeks. We'll get the details from Robert Rouse of DAT in today's Market Update. And Marty Ellis recently witnessed one of those unfortunate things that happens at truck stops – one that does nothing good for the reputation of the industry, even though it's the exception instead of the rule. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Congressman: Su not right for labor secretary. 24:32 – Loads running at 2019 levels. 38:45 – Seeing red over trucker bombs.
For several years, trucking industry interests in Missouri have pushed a bill to reform large truck towing. And for years, the governor has blocked that measure from becoming law. Also, the OOIDA Mary Johnston Scholarship has helped more than 120 students further their education in trade schools, community colleges and four-year universities. And there are as many different types of violations as there are regulations in the books. However, some come up more commonly than others. We'll discuss some of the violations coming up right now with Alex Clark and David Grimes of CDL Legal. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Helping students get an education. 24:32 – Common violations on the road. 38:45 – Missouri tries again on towing reform.
We'll have details on truck shows set for May and some of the causes benefitting from them, including Make a Wish and mental health. Also, the importance of supplemental towing and cleanup is the topic of this week's Insurance Interchange. Trina Skywalker and Trista Roby of OOIDA's Truck Insurance Department discuss how this additional coverage can be fairly inexpensive but can save people a lot of money. And the nomination of Julie Su to be secretary of labor has generated more than its share of controversy. Now, a committee in the U.S. Senate is posed to vote on her nomination. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – May truck shows raise money for good causes. 24:32 – Supplemental towing and cleanup. 38:45 – Committee poised to vote on Su nomination.
AB5 loomed large over Julie Su's confirmation hearing for labor secretary. Plus, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg suggests that the U.S. DOT is holding firm on ELDs and speed limiters. Also, we'll tell you who in recent news has been good and who's been bad with some Roses and Razzberries. And the government is making a big push to reduce vehicle emissions, with the both California and the Environmental Protection Agency focusing on large trucks. And Marty Ellis says that raises all kinds of questions. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Su, Buttigieg in the hot seats. 24:32 – Roses and Razzberries. 38:45 – Electric truck push raises questions.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has taken the first step toward a requirement for side underride guards on large trucks. Another organization has requested an exemption from the hours of service. Also, reuniting truck drivers and their family in the event of tragedy is the goal of Truckers Final Mile, but that wouldn't be possible without donations. And Ohio's governor has signed a new transportation plan that will put billions into the state's roads. Meanwhile, North Dakota lawmakers are considering higher speed limits on the state's fastest roadways. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Helping truckers on their final mile. 24:32 – Side underride guards a step closer. 38:45 – Ohio puts billions into highways.
The freight market is expected to get back into a more normal rhythm. We'll have the latest details from Robert Rouse of DAT in today's Market Update. Also, some one-person motor carriers are trying to run under another carrier's authority – even though that's not advisable to do. And it's no secret that a lot of truck shows center their efforts on benefitting a charity, with many of them specifically supporting organizations that benefit children. And that's true as well for one of Marty Ellis's most recent stops, as well as an event Marty has a long history with. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Running under another carrier's authority not a good idea. 24:32 – DAT: Freight headed back to normal. 38:45 – Truck shows: Doing it for the children.
LLN (4/18/23) – Driver-facing cameras are not popular among the professional truck-driving community. An ATRI survey turned up some interesting feedback about the controversial technology. Also, we'll hear from a fitness instructor who learned the ins and outs of life behind the wheel to tailor a program for drivers to incorporate exercise into their day to better their physical and mental health. And Texas is starting down the path to a pilot program to test vehicle miles traveled – and commercial vehicles are the first target. Meanwhile, several states are eyeing changes to their fuel tax, with many focusing on fuel tax relief. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Study focuses on driver-facing cameras. 24:32 – Designing a fitness program for truckers. 38:45 – Texas considers test of VMT.
LLN (4/17/23) – The nomination of Julie Su to be the new secretary of labor continues to move forward – and so do efforts to oppose that nomination. Also, how did Land Line Now come about and what went in to making it happen? OOIDA Marketing Director Mike Schermoly joins us for some stories about how it all began. And Jami Jones and Mark Schremmer join us to talk about FMCSA's renewed commitment to technology in the name of safety. They also have thoughts on bills in Florida that could put potentially put some truckers out of business, and FMCSA's crash preventability program. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Land Line Now – how it all came together. 24:32 – FMCSA's pursuit of technology. 38:45 – Opposition to Su nomination mounts.
LLN (4/14/23) – A man who spent 20 years in prison decided to turn his life around, and now operates three businesses, including a trucking company. We'll hear from about what he's doing with his second chance. Also, for a decade now, TravelCenters of America has recognized professional drivers who demonstrate traits that bring a high level of respect to the truck driving profession. They're called Citizen Drivers – and this year's class of two fits the bill. And Marty Ellis is hearing from truckers about how we train new drivers – or more precisely, how we don't train new drivers. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Citizen drivers have a few things in common. 24:32 – Making the most of a second chance. 38:45 – The lack of driver training.
LLN (4/13/23) – The Environmental Protection Agency has announced a new set of emissions standards for vehicles of all types. And those new standards raise some serious concerns. Also, truck parking and electric vehicles have been hot topics lately, and OOIDA has been able to add its voice to these discussions in mainstream media. And state legislatures across the country are adopting and pursuing legislation on the topic of automated ticket cameras to catch drivers violating the law. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Getting the message out to the mainstream. 24:32 – New EPA standards raise serious concerns. 38:45 – Ticket cameras gaining ground.
LLN (4/12/23) – Even the CEO of the California Trucking Association can't quite make sense of the state's new emissions standards. He calls it “fantasyland” – and not in a good way, because policies being pushed are both unachievable and unrealistic. Lower load volumes on the spot market are making for an increase in truck posts across all equipment types. And some musings about regulations and the effect they have on the people who are being regulated. 0:00 – Newscast. 9:43 – CEO of California Trucking Association. 24:03 – Spot market update. 38:47 – Musings on regulations.
LLN (4/11/23) – The rules that govern speed limits have become a topic of conversation – and legislation – at state capitals around the country. That includes action that would eliminate the differential in speeds between cars and trucks in some cases, and an increase in speeds for all vehicles in others. Also, the FMCSA recently offered an update on an area many in trucking still find confusing – the drug and alcohol clearinghouse. We'll hear from Bryan Price, the manager of FMCSA's drug and alcohol program. And the annual tax filing deadline is coming up fast – very fast – and like everyone else, truckers need to be ready. We'll find out what's involved and what you need to know right now. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse update. 24:32 – Getting ready to file taxes. 38:45 – States eye changes to speed limits.
LLN (4/10/23) – A member of the U.S. House has introduced a resolution that would overturn the EPA's latest set of emissions standards for large trucks. Also, education is an important part of OOIDA. Over the past 50 years, the Association has offered a number of classes, webinars and programs to ensure truck drivers and those getting into the industry are equipped with the tools they need to succeed. And when it comes to insurance, having a hired driver on your policy can come with increased risk. Trina Skywalker of OOIDA's Truck Insurance Department explains what to expect when getting a quote. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Providing education for America's truckers. 24:32 – The ins and outs of hired drivers. 38:45 – Congressman strikes at EPA emissions rule.
LLN (4/7/23) – Two bills were just introduced in Congress that would go a long way toward solving the truck parking problem. We'll hear from one of the co-sponsors of the House bill, Rep. Mike Bost, about the effort. Also, if you get your own authority, there are a few things you're going to go through that you need to be aware of. And one of them is the new entrant safety audit. And the EPA recently took action on a California emissions regulation that could have a major impact on trucking. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Congressman speaks out on truck parking bill. 24:32 – Surviving the new entrant safety audit. 38:45 – California gets green light on emissions regulation.
LLN (4/6/23) – A possible federal requirement for automatic emergency braking on trucks is taking another step toward becoming a reality. Two autonomous truck companies that want FMCSA to give them a waiver from certain safety regulations. Also, an OOIDA life member was recognized during the Mid-America Trucking Show for her golden anniversary behind the wheel. Candy Bass talks about her achievements and what it means to be recognized for her career. And seven states are considering changes to their rules for who can use the left lane when. Meanwhile, three states on the Eastern Seaboard are looking at rules for when vehicles can idle. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Trucker honored for half-century career. 24:32 – AEBs take first step toward a federal requirement. 38:45 – Left-lane rules get a look in seven states.
LLN (4/5/23) – Education has become an important and growing part of the Mid-America Trucking Show. As part of that, OOIDA brought a section of its Truck to Success course covering brokers, led by Gary Wright of OOIDA's Business Services Department. We'll bring you some highlights. Also, the first quarter of 2023 is in the books, and the numbers are in on how it went. We'll have the latest in today's Market Update with Stephen Petit of DAT. And Marty Ellis is hearing about something many of us thought would eventually happen – an interesting way some less-than-reputable carriers are using ELDs to get around the hours of service regulations. 0:00 – Newscast. 10:13 – Working with brokers. 24:32 – Freight, rates in the first quarter. 38:45 – “Ghost co-drivers.”
LLN (4/4/23) – Concern over broker transparency was the topic of discussion during an FMCSA listening session at the Mid-America Trucking Show. We'll have details about what drivers were saying. Also, much like anything you put into your truck or vehicle, it's important to put the right thing in. Such is the case with grease. And a new law in California targets oil companies for windfall profits with civil penalties. Meanwhile, Georgia lawmakers have put their stamp of approval on a bill to allow heavier trucks on the state's roads – but only certain trucks. 0:00 – Newscast. 09:43 – Drivers speak out on broker transparency. 24:03 – Getting the right grease. 38:47 – California targets oil company profits.
LLN (4/3/23) – Late last week, the EPA took action on a California emissions regulation that could have a major impact on trucking. Also, confusion still surrounds FMCSA's Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. The supervisor of OOIDA's CMCI drug testing consortium discusses the Clearinghouse and recent changes. And what goes into Land Line Magazine? We'll sit down with Managing Editor Jami Jones and Staff Writer Ryan Witkowski to discuss the double issue and how they covered the Mid-America Trucking Show. 0:00 – Newscast. 09:43 – Clearing up the clearinghouse. 24:03 – Covering MATS. 38:47 – EPA grants California a waiver.
LLN (3/31/23) – FMCSA held a listening session about broker abuse on Day 2 of the Mid-America Trucking Show, and they got an earful. Very few issues generate a consensus nowadays, but the parking shortage is one of them and the Truckload Carriers Association is among those working on solutions. Plus, celebrating OOIDA's 50th anniversary by looking at one of its most successful campaigns, Truckers for Troops. 0:00 – Newscast. 9:43 – Truckers for Troops 24:06 – TCA on truck parking crisis. 38:51 – Broker session at MATS.
LLN (3/30/23) – It's barely been a day, but the two new bills dedicated to truck parking are already gaining some early support in the House and Senate. We'll break down the latest with early reactions from Washington, D.C., and the floor of the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ky. We'll also get into the best practices for maintaining your fuel system. 0:00 – Newscast. 9:43 – Truck parking bills gain early support. 24:03 – Keys to maintaining your fuel system. 38:47 – More truck parking talk, but from MATS.
LLN (3/29/23) – The fight to secure more truck parking spots across the nation just added some muscle thanks to two new bills in the U.S. Congress. Rep. Mike Bost tells us about the push. Then, spring freight season is looking a bit like a roller-coaster, but load volumes are expected to increase over the next two weeks. And finally, some truckers are still having a hard time getting parts for their trucks. 0:00 – Newscast. 9:43 – Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act. 24:03 – Spot market update. 38:47 – Searching for parts.
LLN (3/28/23) – Concerns over mandatory speed-limiters is growing in the trucking industry, but what do they do and why is there opposition? Plus, an OOIDA member who's been behind the wheel for 50 years is being recognized once again – with not one but two honors. Then, we dive into FMCSA's flirtation with expanding the ELD mandate. And finally, a bill designed to give truckers access to restrooms at shippers and receivers is moving forward at the Washington State legislature, while several states are looking at their “move-over” rules. 0:00 – The background on speed limiters. 9:43 – What you need to know about going to court. 24:03 – Some exclusions may apply. 38:47 – Labor nominee spurs concerns.
LLN (3/27/23) – Texas lawmakers are considering a pilot program to test a truck-only tax similar to the much-maligned Connecticut tax. Meanwhile, state governments are making changes to accommodate autonomous trucks, including platooning technology. Also, should you try to fight a citation from a U.S. DOT inspection, or just pay the fine? What is the SAP program and how does it apply to you? What do you do if you get caught in a double-brokering scam? Tom Crowley and Joe Biggs of OOIDA's Business Services Department have the answers. And dashcams are becoming more popular in trucks. Trina Skywalker and Trista Roby of OOIDA's Truck Insurance Department discuss the pros and cons of these devices. 0:00 – Newscast. 09:43 – What you need to know about going to court. 24:03 – Some exclusions may apply. 38:47 – Labor nominee spurs concerns.
LLN (3/24/23) – Tyson Fisher of Land Line Magazine joins us to talk about how the non-trucking public views the truck parking crisis. Also, spot rates? Dropping. Volume and demand? Flat. Operating costs? Up. There aren't a whole lot of positive developments when it comes to the market, but Andrew King of the OOIDA Foundation looks for a silver lining. And what sort of recognition should people get after a long career of service? Marty Ellis recently ran into two situations that he thought offered a stark comparison between how it should be, and how it unfortunately is for far too many people. 0:00 – Newscast. 09:43 – Looking for the silver lining in the freight market. 24:03 – The general public and truck parking. 38:47 – Recognition for a long career?
LLN (3/23/23) – Action on broker transparency may be in the works. And it could address some significant problems faced by small business truckers. Also, a class that details the ins and outs of becoming an owner-operator is now available online thanks to OOIDA. The OOIDA Foundation's research analyst, Andrew King, talks about the Truck to Success program. And state lawmakers from Maryland to California are reviewing rule changes that show little tolerance for price gouging. 0:00 – Newscast. 09:43 – Now online: Truck to Success. 24:03 – Finally, possible action on broker transparency. 38:47 – Price gouging in lawmakers' sights.