Tag Archive for: Driver Behavior

Out-perform, Out-shine, and Out-grow your Current Safety Culture

Infinit-I Award-Winning Training Platform

Through the first half of 2020, the trucking industry has made major adjustments to a “new normal.” Our procedures have evolved to maintain efficiency in a wounded economic environment. And yet, we survived.

Resistance to change is common, as amendments to the status quo can be challenging. Stepping outside our comfort zone, however, is an opportunity for personal and professional growth. We were motivated, because of the pandemic, to protect our greatest assets.

You, as a client, are our most valuable asset.

For us, it really wasn’t much of a stretch. We pride ourselves on our unrelenting customer service. The pandemic has allowed us to prove it to a broader audience who, amid the crises, sought affirmation.

For the past six months, our clients continued their success through our training and communication software. To achieve our goal, we stuck by one rule: keep it simple.

Because they have always been top-notch, our Client Success Team was instructed to maintain business as usual. We strive to transcend your expectations, provide superior communication, and employ a problem solver mentality. We provide these through our stellar Client Success Representatives.

Transcend Expectations

We specialize in training. It’s no surprise our Client Success Reps are thoroughly prepared to handle sticky situations. Their abilities will consistently transcend your expectations.

Our Client Success Reps are here to see you out-perform, out-shine, and out-grow your current safety culture.

Out-perform, Out-shine, and Out-grow your Current Safety Culture.

Superior Communication

A key indicator of employee satisfaction is communication. Ask any truck driver, office employee, or shop worker, etc. They will agree.

Infinit-I Workforce Solutions has reformulated the traditional customer service model. Instead of waiting for you to call us with problems, we proactively seek out potential issues in a bi-monthly check-in.

No need to dial a call center, select your prompts, and wait for the next available representative. Our Success Team reaches out to you, saving you time while simultaneously driving you to success.

Problem Solvers’ Mentality

Infinit-I Workforce Solutions not only created the Five Leadership Principles, we employ them. During your chat, let them know which areas of your company you would like to improve. We will show you what it means to “Propel the Psychology of a Problem Solver.”

Our Client Success Reps are well versed in the content of our resource library. They will happily recommend and assign training courses to your employees.

While other companies are scaling back their client support, we are expanding. Where they are cutting availability, we’re building ours. Where they have you on hold for 30 or 60 minutes, we respond as quickly as always.

In addition to your own dedicated CSR, you can now take advantage of our learning management system for free. Get to know us during your 30-Day Complimentary Trial, our gift to an industry under stress.

Our success model is proactive. It is effective. And most importantly, it is personal. We call them Client Success Reps for a reason. You will win! Let us prove it to you.

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5 Intangible Must Haves that Truckers Crave in the Job Market

5 Intangible Must Haves that Truckers Crave in the Job Market

Wow! Dan Baker, what an insightful thinker!

We can’t stop talking about the inspiring webinar this week featuring Dan Baker, so we decided to blog about it.

His wisdom and knowledge and overall-attitude about truck drivers are downright infectious! (Bad choice of words during a pandemic?)

The trucking industry moves fast. If you’ve never seen the inside of an operations department, you may not realize the stress and anxiety that exists. One might compare the energy level to the trading floor of the stock exchange, or the stress of air traffic control.

All of this with a solitary purpose, deliver consumer goods on time.

What is a Cultural Relationship?

Research states that employee satisfaction is one of the most important factors in retention. One employee’s attitude can change the feeling of an entire workspace, either positively or negatively.

Bright HR introduces the concept of a psychological contract between employers and employees. The idea states that employers have an obligation to recognize the mental state of their employees and identify potential issues that may arise.

A company’s culture has become a prevalent topic in the working world. Leadership is focused on creating solid cultural relationships between employees.

Employee dissatisfaction leads to a higher turnover. High turnover leads to lower profitability.

The cost of replacing an employee can be thousands of dollars, depending on their position. Creating a workspace where employees feel respected and valued can support one of the best cost-cutting tools; retention.

Why is it important?

Turnover is an ever-present pain point, especially in the trucking industry where average driver turnover hovers north of 90%. The current driver shortage means there are many options for most drivers to easily find another trucking job.

Most of the time, it’s not about the equipment. Or the sign-on bonus. Or the size of the fleet.  While those are factors in the decision-making process, there are other, non-tangible perks that truck drivers are looking for.

With that in mind, employers are focusing on how to make their company the place drivers want to be.

5 Intangibles Truck Drivers Crave

Honesty

From day one, truck drivers just want to hear the truth. Recruiting, especially in transportation, has become a sales position.

Recruiters are trained in sales tactics. They are instructed to ask open-ended questions to identify value points. Then use those value points to entice the drivers. Sometimes, this can feel like a sales pitch to the driver instead of the beginning of a working relationship.

From the moment a driver posts a resume on a job board, their phone starts ringing nonstop. It is easy to get overwhelmed with all the interviews, emails, and screening they have to participate in.

Remove the vail of the sales pitch. Be honest. If you value that driver, tell them.

Communication

After they are employed, you must be able to carry that through to the operations side. One of the most frustrating things for an employee is lack of communication.

Imagine what it’s like to be sitting in a tractor-trailer, waiting for an assignment. Being told, “I’m working on something for you.” Only to wait hours and hours to be dispatched with absolutely no idea when they might get to start rolling.

That driver, or any employee for that matter, would much rather hear, “I won’t have an assignment for you for another 3 hours.”

They may not be happy about the situation, but setting the expectation is always better than leaving your driver hanging.

Respect

Truck drivers are the ultimate boots on the ground, front-line, in-the-know resources of the industry. And they deserve to be treated as such.

Even though they are not sitting in a cubicle at the terminal every day, they are still just as much a part of the workforce. Dispatchers, safety officers, managers, executives, truck drivers, and everyone in between should see themselves as coworkers.

This is where your company culture determines your employees’ cultural relationship. Do they see themselves as a team with a common goal? Or is it every man for himself?

To create a positive experience for everyone involved, focus on enhancing that relationship. Explore training options to encourage a workforce that shows respect to each other.

Fast Orientation

Since turnover is so high in the trucking industry, drivers can move companies often. They have been involved in every type of orientation available. And most of the time, they flat out don’t want to be there.

They’ve heard the presentations, they’ve filled out the paperwork, they’ve taken tests repeatedly.

With the latest technological advances, the practice of in-person orientation has become all but obsolete. Infinit-I Workforce Solutions allows trucking companies to virtually conduct online orientation from the comfort of their own home.

Orientation begins immediately after a job offer is made. The short, Netflix style videos or new hire paperwork get sent directly to your new driver’s computer, tablet, or smartphone. They can participate in all your regular “class-room style” orientation activities before they even arrive at the terminal.

Truck drivers just want to get on the road. For some, sitting through 3+ days of repetitive orientation is an eternity. We can change that.

To drive

Enough said.

Empty asphalt road in summer.

As previously mentioned, Dan Baker is an expert at creating positive and encouraging cultural relationships, specifically in the trucking industry. His Cultural Relationship Program was born of a need for connection and change.

One thing has become palpably apparent during the national emergencies recently: truck drivers are essential. And they should be treated that way. A strong cultural relationship is mutually beneficial for everyone from the front lines all the way up the ladder.

The Dan Baker Cultural Relationship Program will help you evaluate your business structure and allow you to eliminate weak points and solidify your strengths.

Click here for more information.

Additional Resources:

Why You Should Be Focused on Your Employee’s Cultural Relationships Now More Than Ever

Why your Safety Culture will Die without Buy-In. And how to get it.

HOT HOT HOT! Sunshine Threatens Truckers. Here’s What Your Fleet Needs to Know

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Why You Should Be Focused on Your Employee’s Cultural Relationships Now More Than Ever

Truck drivers are in high demand, and they know it. Because of the driver shortage, truck drivers expect more from their employers than ever before.

You must become the kind of company a driver wants to work for.

Truckers move fast.  Formalities disappear when communication is hurried.  In the rush, sometimes we forget to see each other as people.

As someone’s mom or dad.  As someone’s son or daughter; grandma or grandpa. Sometimes we forget about each other’s lives lived outside the walls of the company.

The Cultural Relationship

Retention is one of the key factors in the profitability of a trucking company. And to achieve long-term retention of your drivers, they must value your company and want to be there.

Establishing a cultural relationship focuses on enhancing the employee experience. Building positive working relationships between employees improves employee retention and satisfaction.

From Drivers, Operations, Shopworkers, Recruiting, and everyone in between. Add enterprise-wide value with these takeaways:

  • Employee Development
  • Improve Communications
  • Encourage Cooperation
  • Foster Professionalism
  • Reinforce Company Culture

Drivers and Everyone else

A driver’s relationship with your company is formed by every single interaction, from day one. Think about your recruiters, your dispatchers, your mechanics; their job performance of determines the driver’s perception of your company.

An adequately trained and competent workforce leads to greater driver satisfaction. Which, in turn, reduces your turnover and saves you money.

Every employee is responsible for your company culture, a critical factor in retention. Every single employee is a key piece in making your company the place drivers want to stay.

Think about your drivers’ typical day, whether at the terminal or on the road. Every point of contact they meet is potentially a pivotal interaction.

Each of those points of contact determines the driver’s perception of the company. Each interaction is an opportunity to create value for the driver.

At any moment, your driver could experience an unfulfilling encounter with another employee. If that driver decides to leave your company, the cost of a new hire replacement is tremendous.

Your winning team depends on motivation, encouragement, and employee morale. Discover the secret to all three with The Cultural Relationship Program: The People Side of Trucking with Dan Baker.

The Dan Baker Cultural Relationship Program

The son of a trucker, Dan Baker utilizes his 40+ years in the industry to improve trucking operations. His consultation builds relationships between employees that bridge generational gaps.

Dan has developed the Dan Baker Cultural Relationship Program, designed for all employees. From the administration to the shop, from the CEO to the custodial staff, this program will improve their communication skills.

The Dan Baker Cultural Relationship Program is available now on the Infinit-I Workforce Solutions platform. It is presented in three sections:

Employee Development (71 videos)

  • Company Culture, Parts 1 & 2
  • Conflict Resolution, Parts 1 & 2
  • The Most Important Part of the Process is You
  • Our Five Basic Needs
  • Perception
  • How We Perceive Ourselves
  • What Makes People Tick?
  • Comfortable With Yourself

Dispatcher Development/Communication Training (64 videos)

  • Dispatcher Foundations
  • Perception
  • Trust and Respect
  • The Generational Challenge
  • The Functions of a Dispatcher, Parts 1&2
  • Successful Communication
  • The Dispatcher/Driver Relationship
  • Managing Your Own Thinking, Parts 1 & 2

Recruiting Insights (18 videos)

  • Generational Turnover Parts 1 & 2

Poems & Stories (2 videos)

Other Interesting Articles:

Why your Safety Culture will Die without Buy-In. And how to get it.

HOT HOT HOT! Sunshine Threatens Truckers. Here’s What Your Fleet Needs to Know

28 Things Every Employer Should Do While Employees Are Heading Back To Work

Truck Drivers Challenged by Demonstrations All Over the Country

Minimize Mistakes to Maximize your Most Valuable Resource – Your Drivers

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Why your Safety Culture will Die without Buy-In. And how to get it.

What is Buy-In?

One of the most used and sought-after business phrases in the workplace today: Buy-In. When you have a project idea, but you are not a decision-maker, you must get the approval of higher-ups to go ahead.

Before the pitch, you must begin campaigning, gathering support from like-minded co-workers who share your vision for the future. Their support is called “Buy-In.”

Think about the process of starting a business. Most likely, you would need the financial support of investors. The first investor is usually the hardest to convince. Once you have a board of supporters, it is easier to get new ones to sign on.

Selling points

As with any business proposal, the pitch must include the top benefits of the product you wish to implement. Find the aspects of the product that will benefit your company the most and bring those to the presentation.

For instance, your decision-makers may be concerned about the additional workload with this new product. Focus on the redistribution of work that is offered by Infinit-I Workforce Solutions.

They may say the budget doesn’t call for an additional product. In that case, look for all the returns offered by the investment. For example, Infinit-I Workforce Solutions has been proven to reduce the number of accidents for clients.

One prevented accident could save a company thousands of dollars. In that case, the system pays for itself.

When the issue is budget-related, ask yourself what factors you examine when putting a price on your driver’s safety. How are those factors weighted?

Of course, this is a silly question. There is nothing more important than the safety of your fleet. When the return on investment is life or death, establishing a solid safety culture is paramount.

Push Back

When faced with changes, people naturally look for reasons to push back. Humans respect a routine. We feel most at ease when there are no surprises or new tasks to learn. Stepping out of one’s comfort zone is scary to some.

So, when pitching a new project, you will run into some nay-sayers who are not interested in advancing their skills but would rather coast through another day. Your safety culture, however, should never be diluted just so it appeals to those who are complacent.

“We wanted a well-rounded training program. Training dispatchers how to talk to drivers. Everyone has to understand the industry or there will be communication issues back and forth.”

-Larry Finley, Environmental Health & Safety Manager, White Arrow, LLC

As with any profession, employers tend to get the most push back from veterans of the industry. They will hear things like…

“We’ve never had to do this before.”

“I’ve never had an accident.”

Handling Objections

Of course, neither of these are qualifiers to skimp out on training. Accidents and incidents can happen at any moment, to anyone.

Experience managers plan for negative feedback. Try to think of every reason an employee might not want to participate. Prepare a rebuttal for each of them.

“I’ll quit before you make me do more training.”

This is, perhaps, the most challenging form of push back. Take a moment to realize the implications of this statement and how it threatens the quality of your safety program. If you have an employee that does not support the improvement and future direction of your company, you should reevaluate their position.

“There is an apex we want to shoot for. Value of training and the value of people and their safety. Do it right, do it safe, and treat everyone like a leader.”

-Jonathan Richardson, Director of Corporate Training, Martin Transport, Inc.

Mission Critical

Above all, you must prepare to counter uncertainties within your target audience. If your goal is to ensure the safety of your fleet, focus on frequent and consistent safety training.

Now, you can do it for free. Infinit-I Workforce Solutions is offering a Complimentary 30-Day Free Trial to help you gain the Buy-In you need to improve your safety culture.

“Safety training doesn’t just come from a vacuum; you have to start someplace… It’s a process that has to be addressed year-over-year with ownership…”

-Craig Hart, Product Manager, Infinit-I Workforce Solutions

Further resources and expert advice are available in the Infinit-I Workforce Solutions Fast Forward Webinar Series.

In other news: 

7 Steps to Get Safety Ideas Out of the Boardroom and Implemented Into Safety Culture

Why Enhanced Safety Culture is Your #1 Money Saver

Premier Safety Culture Advice

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HOT HOT HOT! Sunshine Threatens Truckers. Here’s What Your Fleet Needs to Know

Sunshine Threatens Truckers

Its that time of year again. HOT! And it won’t be getting better any time soon. Heat-related illnesses affect truck drivers often due to the nature of the job.

Loading, unloading, throwing tarps, strapping, etc. all cause extended exposure to the heat. Operations managers must be aware of the risk their drivers are taking by working in the sun and extreme temperatures.

While assessing the risk, managers should create a response plan to be followed in the event of a heat-related illness. Familiarize yourself with the following information so you can create a solid plan to be deployed between your operations staff and drivers.

Truck Drivers are some of the hardest working people in the country. Along with road safety, we here at Infinit-I Workforce Solutions would like to offer some health safety tips.

Please be mindful of the following challenges you or your drivers might face as the temperatures continue to rise:

Sun Related Illnesses

Heat Stroke

If you suspect you or someone near you are suffering from a heat stroke, call 911 or local emergency services. Heat Stroke (or sunstroke) is a medical emergency that causes lasting damage to the victim.

A person can suffer from heatstroke without prior symptoms. It strikes hard and fast from high-temperature exposure. Your body loses its ability to control its temperature, classified by a core temperature of more than 104. This syndrome can cause damage to internal organs.

Check here to study the symptoms before it happens to you.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat Exhaustion is a less severe issue, but if left unchecked, it can lead to heatstroke. It is usually caused by exposure to high temperatures and either dehydration or salt depletion.

Obviously, if you don’t drink enough water, your body will not stay hydrated. It is less known that if your sodium levels get too low, your body can not retain the water you do take in.

Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when your body loses more fluid than you are drinking. Watch for the warning signs before it happens. Vomiting and diarrhea can often lead to dehydration if you can’t adequately replace fluids lost.

Heat Cramps

High temperatures lead to dehydration. Dehydration leads to cramps.

Be mindful of your nutrition and hydration levels, especially if you are loading/unloading, throwing tarps, or performing truck maintenance. Exerting yourself in the hot weather can lead to severe cramps.

Heat Rash

Heat Rash is marked by blisters or red bumps that often occur when sweaty skin meets friction. It is especially common in areas that aren’t able to breathe, like armpits, elbow crease, or chest.

While this condition is less severe than the above, it can cause much discomfort to the sufferer. If this happens to you, try to remain in a cool, dry place. You can use powder or antiperspirants to keep the rash dry.

Sun Burn

The pain of a fresh sunburn is all too familiar. It is always a good idea to wear sunscreen, even on a cloudy day.

All skin types are susceptible to sunburn, some may be more vulnerable at lower UV rates. If your skin starts to feel tight or retains heat, it is time to move to a shady area.

Repeated exposure to sunburn can also lead to skin cancer. If you work a job that constantly has you out in the weather, always wear some sort of skin protection.

Use this CDC chart to become familiar with the Warning Signs and Symptoms of Heat Illness.

Sun Related Illness Prevention

To Operations:

Check on your drivers daily. Watch their logs and make sure they are moving. If you see a driver has been idle for an unusual amount of time, be sure to get in contact with them immediately.

If contact cannot be made, you may have to employ an emergency intervention. Speak with your management about a plan before this becomes an issue.

Drink water

Drink water on a timer and consistently throughout the day, not just when you’re thirsty. Often, thirst is not a warning sign of dehydration, but a sign it’s too late.

Avoid alcohol

Obviously, if you’re a professional driver, you should avoid alcohol altogether. Alcohol can function as a diuretic, causing your body to get rid of the fluids that you need. That’s partly why people suffer from hangovers; alcohol causes dehydration.

Avoid sugary drinks

Sugary sodas, juices, and teas are also diuretics and can cause your body to lose fluids more rapidly than normal. In extreme temperatures, it is best to drink low- or no-caffeine, unsweetened drinks.

Idle time

Your employer probably has a policy in place about the amount of time you can idle. Running your air conditioner to stay cool is an important factor in your health and safety. Ask your Operations how often you can idle during the summer months, so you don’t put yourself at risk.

Take Breaks Indoors

During your pre-plan, check your shipper and receiver for a driver lounge. Do not stay in your tractor if it is not required.

Cool Showers

In extreme heat, it is best to avoid scouring shower temperatures if possible. Extended hot water exposure can raise your body temperature. If it is hot outside, your body has to work overtime to cool you back down.

Sunscreen

Make sunscreen a part of your daily routine to protect you from sunburn in the short term and skin cancer in the long term.

Friendly reminder: Drink water.

We have a responsibility to take care of each other. During the summer months, it is critical to know the warning signs of heat-related illness and be able to respond appropriately.

Make sure you have a specific plan in place for heat-related illness and a proper way to communicate that plan to all your drivers and operations staff.

If you do not have the ability to communicate a safety plan immediately, contact Infinit-I Workforce Solutions at 866-904-5087 to learn how we can help. Or request a free demo.

Other Helpful Articles:

Minimize Mistakes To Maximize Your Most Valuable Resource – Your Drivers

Driver Safety Tips for the Summer

5 Tips for Truck Driver Fatigue Management

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Minimize Mistakes to Maximize your Most Valuable Resource – Your Drivers

Client Success Team

One of the biggest expenses a trucking company experiences is onboarding new drivers. Studies show that each new driver costs approximately $10,000 to recruit, onboard, and train. Retention becomes a huge factor in cutting costs.

Dan Baker’s Cultural Relationship Program teaches that improving the relationship between management, operations, and drivers creates a positive company culture that is the key to success.

A foolproof way to create a more loyal fleet is to encourage the cultural relationship between dispatchers and truck drivers. Both should understand how the other operates and be able to maintain open communication.

Money-making truck drivers love being dispatched on those loads that require you to travel 2,000 miles in 4 days. Loads with more miles ensure more money for the truck driver and their employer.

That is not always the case, however. Sometimes, there are no good loads to dispatch.

In the case of bad freight, look for other ways to improve efficiency. Use these tips from logistics leadership to maximize your most valuable resource, your drivers.

Average Trucker Pay

In 2019, the average pay for truck drivers was roughly $58,000, up from $52,000 in 2017. Truck drivers make about $10,000 more than the average earner. But everyone likes to earn extra money, right?

Creating an environment where your drivers will not only be successful, but will also thrive, will encourage loyalty and long-term retention. Infinit-I Workforce Solutions offers numerous training courses that will allow continual education of any size fleet.

Encourage Drivers Maximize Hours

Some truck drivers fully enjoy the rush of running the highways, maxing out their hours every day. Those drivers typically make the most money.

Some drivers prefer to take extended breaks, mosey around truck stops, sleep late, etc. All the time they spend idle is money lost for that driver and your company.

Make sure they understand the basics concepts of hours of service and set the expectation with this training course:

Infinit-I Workforce Solutions Training Catalog – Page 21 – CSA Hours of Service Basics

Interpreting the BOL

One of the worst things a trucking company can experience is OS&D. Overage, Shortage, & Damaged – This occurs when the freight amount is incorrect or damaged and the receiver will not accept the shipment.

While your company probably has insurance to protect you from losses, these claims take time. An OS&D incident can stop a truck for several days while a claim is being sorted. When you make money per loaded mile, an idle truck can cost your company a lot of money.

Make sure your drivers know how to read a BOL for every type of load they haul. As soon as they are loaded, they should have a thorough understanding of the shippers/receiver’s expectations and condition the load should arrive in.

This type of proactive training can save money and prevent loss of miles and revenue.

Trip Planning

Most truck drivers know the importance of trip planning, but some may not be able to execute a trip plan properly. Sharing these tips with your drivers will start a conversation about improvement.

  • Get to the destination city as quickly and safely as possible. It is always a good idea for a driver to put more miles on the front end of a trip. It is better for a truck driver to knock out 90% of the trip on pickup day than have too many miles left on delivery day.
  • If your receiver doesn’t penalize you for early loads, encourage drivers to check in early. Chances are, they will take your freight before the actual appointment, allowing your driver to move on to another load.
  • Avoid dispatching loads with too much time on them. It is always better to have a driver rolling than getting paid for sitting still.
  • You drivers should always check the entire route for big cities, business loops, high traffic areas, construction, and weather as soon as they are dispatched. They must be able to identify areas that may require a reroute. Encourage them to communicate those concerns with operations.
  • Eventually, the FMCSA’s HOS changes will allow drivers to take their 30-minute break while on duty. When in effect, drivers will be able to take their 30-minute break while fueling or being loaded/unloaded. Emphasis the importance of restful breaks, however. This is a tool to help drivers utilize their time more efficiently, not drive fatigued.

On-Time Delivery

Some truck drivers don’t understand the consequences of late delivery until its too late. Most receivers will consider late drivers a ‘work-in.’

Depending on their volume, that driver could be sitting for hours or even days waiting on an opening. This not only creates a loss of miles for the driver but also constitutes a loss in revenue for your company and compromises your reputation with that shipper and receiver.

Avoid Obstacles

Booking loads with unpaid deadhead can cost your company thousands of dollars of it happens too often. You should always negotiate empty miles with your customer. If not, look for backhaul loads. You may even reach out to brokerages to make up for the loss of revenue.

When booking loads, always check to confirm your driver will have enough time to deliver on time. Be aware of the distance of the trip, the route conditions, and the number of hours available to avoid a repower. Sending another driver to relay a load will only cost every person involved time and money.

Most importantly, encourage their safety. Drivers should be made aware that they don’t have to drive excessive speeds to make more money. The best way to improve your fleet’s performance is communication and continuing education.

Contact Infinit-I Workforce Solutions to find out how we can enhance your safety culture, improve your drivers’ behaviors, and save you money. Ask about your Complimentary 30-Day Trial!

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Remembering Those Who are Gone and Dedicated to Keeping Others Safe

Remembering Those Who Are Gone And Dedicated To Keeping Others Safe

In honor of Memorial Day, the team at Infinit-I Workforce Solutions would like to thank all members of our armed services. We stand with you.

We express our sincere gratitude to the ones who are no longer with us; the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we may be free.

Thank you for your service.

Also, a huge thank you to all the truck drivers over the road who spend countless hours away from their family and friends to support their fellow Americans. You are the backbone of the supply chain.

Memorial Day weekend poses a higher risk for truckers because of road construction, the influx of traffic, and increased fatality rate.

Road Construction

Not only are traffic fines increased in construction zones, so is the risk of fatal accidents. In fact, a whole week in April is dedicated to raising awareness because construction zones are so dangerous.

State DOTs, road safety organizations, government agencies, and private companies come together every year to present National Work Zone Awareness Week. Their goal is to save lives, reminding all drivers to use caution, especially when encountering work zones.

In 2018, 34% of fatal work zone related crashes involved the death of a professional driver. Often, preventable actions cause these crashes such as improper following distance, distracted driving, excessive speeds, etc.

The confusion and frustration that exists in construction zones is normal for truck drivers. They encounter work zones frequently due to the nature of their job.

Keep in mind, four-wheelers are responsible for most CMV accidents. The truck driver and/or the company can still be taken to court, however, even though it’s not their fault.

Influx of traffic

As the summer begins, Memorial Day kicks off road trips, family vacations, and parties. We’ve all been stuck at home, slowly going stir crazy. Shelter in place recommendations have been relaxed as we enter a long-awaited 3-day weekend.

While the rest of the country practiced social distancing, truck drivers got used to less traffic  Drivers have been able to drive faster and deliver loads in a shorter amount of time.

Truckers need to be mindful that this weekend will bring people out of their homes. They will see a large increase in the amount of commuter traffic all over the country.

Increased Fatality Rate

Even though traffic has decreased over the past few months, motor vehicle fatality rates have gone up. The National Safety Council says the United States has seen a 14% increase in the number of fatal accidents since the quarantines started.

All drivers are taking advantage of the less congested roadways. Average speeds have increased, and as a result, this careless driving has caused more accidents.

Some states have seen massive increases in the number of driving fatalities. Arkansas’s number has increased by 16% compared to last year. Louisiana has experienced a 23% increase and Connecticut’s number skyrocketed by 42%.

“Disturbingly, we have open lanes of traffic and an apparent open season on reckless driving,”

Lorraine M. Martin, President and CEO of NSC encourages everyone to drive with caution, especially during the pandemic and crisis. She says driving safely is our civic duty.

“If we won’t do it for ourselves, we should do it for our first responders, our law enforcement and our healthcare workers, who are rightly focused on coronavirus patients and should not be overwhelmed by preventable car crashes.”

– Lorraine M. Martin, NSC president and CEO.

Experts’ Advice

The expert advisory board of Infinit-I Workforce Solutions has advice for trucking companies who are concerned about the health of their company. They have recommended the following best practices to ensure the safety of highways, truck drivers, and the general public:

Create a ‘first-in-class’ safety culture.

The goal of every safety department is to reduce accidents, reduce CSA, and ensure safety is always ‘top-of-mind’ for all employees. The best way to achieve this goal is consistent communication and frequent training.

 

Offer your truck drivers continual safety training.

One of the main challenges in the trucking industry is routing drivers to the terminal to attend safety meetings. Infinit-I Workforce Solutions has virtually solved that problem for good.

The learning management system allows companies to deliver personalized safety training to any employee, anytime, anywhere.

 

Test their retention.

You may be thinking, “How do I know if my employees will pay attention to these safety videos?”

Great question!

On the LMS, you have the option to make them take a test on the content. Users cannot skip the video or halfway pay attention because they will have to start over if they fail the test.

 

Document everything.

If you’re working in the logistics industry, you’ve heard it a million times: “If it isn’t documented, it didn’t happen.”

In most legal cases involving CMV accidents, the first thing a litigation attorney asks for is the safety training records of the driver involved.

Infinit-I Workforce Solutions offers automatic, electronic reporting and tracking. You never have to worry about sign-in sheets or completion record signatures ever again.

 

At Infinit-I Workforce Solutions, we are so grateful to all those who work hard to keep the American dream alive and well.

Please take extra caution this weekend so your family’s next Memorial Day won’t be in honor of you.

 

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Memorial Day Weekend – 5 Ways to Stay Safe On The Road

Truck drivers know the rules of the road and how to operate safely. One surprising fact: most CMV accidents are caused by the passenger vehicle and not the trucker.

What is Memorial Day?

For some, Memorial Day this long weekend calls for grilling and outside activities. For others, it meant everything.

Memorial Day is a federal holiday that reminds us to remember those who have sacrificed their lives while serving in the military. Their dedication has secured our safety and freedom; and today we honor them.

To all veterans and active duty: Infinit-I Workforce Solutions thanks you for your service!

To the families and friends of those who died: We thank you for your support of our armed services and stand with you to honor their memory.

 

Accident history on Memorial Day

You may be wondering if it is more dangerous to travel on Memorial Day weekend. Of course, any increase in traffic will increase the likelihood of accidents. This year, there are some extra contributing factors to keep in mind:

Shelter-In-Place lifted + Holiday Weekend + Warm Weather = Recipe for Disaster

In 2018, Memorial Day traffic fatalities accounted for 12% of all traffic fatalities in the month of May. Throughout the year, traffic fatalities average about 100 per day. It is estimated that up to 410 traffic deaths could occur this Memorial Day weekend.

Do your part to reduce that number.

This Memorial Day poses new threats because of the social distancing restrictions we have been facing. Some people may be willing to stay home longer, while others are craving social activities.

Here are some tips to follow so that next year, your family’s Memorial Day won’t be in honor of you.

 

1. Identify Impaired Drivers:

A minivan full of screaming toddlers. Mom and dad are stressed. Kids are stir-crazy. They haven’t left the house in two months. It is best to avoid driving alongside them.

Jacked up pickup truck with a bed full of coolers, canoes, and innertubes. His music is blaring, he’s throwing back a cold one. You don’t know if he is on his way to the river or if he’s already been drinking there all day. Let him pass.

Cars full of teenagers blaring graduation music because now that is their only option. Their lives have been turned upside down, just like the rest of us. And they are missing out on some key rites of passage like graduation and prom. Give them some space.

 

2. Look for potential road hazards:

That Jacked up Pickup truck is now throwing empty cans out of the window. His rebel without a cause attitude is dangerous for everyone around him. Do not engage. And maybe, call the police.

That car full of teenagers is about to miss an exit and cut you off. They always do.

Family of deer standing innocently by the road. They are not innocent. In 2019, West Virginians had a particularly hard time with deer. 1 in 38 drivers were involved in a collision caused by an animal.

 

3. Protect yourself

As much as you want to, do not text “Happy Memorial Day” while driving. Your friends and family will be just as happy to receive texts and calls from you during your break.

People forget how to merge during the holidays. They will be rushing to get home after a long day on the water or with their inlaws. Watch for that.

Constructions zones are everywhere and potentially dangerous, always slow down.

Get plenty of rest.

 

4. Do extra during your Pre-trip Inspection

The weather is getting warmer, check and double-check your tires and fluid levels. Heat from the weather and from the road can cause tires to expand. Too much pressure can cause poor handling or even blowouts.

If you can’t see, always get out and look when backing, parking, taking off, etc.

Clean your windshield. The glaring summer sun can significantly decrease visibility, especially if the window is smudged or dirty. Avoid truck stop squeegees if the fluid is dirty. Some professional drivers recommend alcohol as the best way to get a spot-free clean.

 

5. Protect others

Always use blinkers, lights, and horn when necessary.

Use hazard lights to warn the people behind you that traffic is slowing ahead. Many rear-end collisions and pile-ups occur because drivers weren’t aware of slowing traffic ahead.

If you must stop on the shoulder, use your emergency kit to warn oncoming traffic.

 

Truckers know that missing holidays with friends and family is just part of the gig. Make sure you get back to them in one piece.

And to truck drivers: Thank you for everything you do over the road.

Share this article with the truckers in your life. Let’s work together to keep each other safe.

 

More Interesting Articles:

5 Bright Future Forecasts for Truckers and How the Industry is Adapting to Coronavirus Challenges

 

FMCSA is Changing HOS… Again! 4 New HOS Rules

 

Uber Freight and CloudTrucks Give Truckers New Opportunities

 

8 Ways Truckers Relieve Stress During the Pandemic

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5 Bright Future Forecasts for Truckers

The trucking industry is no stranger to adapting to new policies and procedures. The Coronavirus pandemic has presented many challenges that have required rapid change across the industry.

Just as we were settling into the relaxed HOS regulations, they change again. Just as we got comfortable with the open roads offered by fewer cars, society starts going back to work.

The economy will soon begin its recovery as people return to normal. So, what does that mean for the future of trucking?

Job Market

The Coronavirus pandemic has closed the door on new drivers entering the market. Most states have required their driver licensing agencies to severely reduce operations. As many as seventeen states have shuttered them completely.

The President and CEO of the Commercial Vehicle Training Association states that nationwide, we are seeing a 40% decrease in March For the number of new CDLs issued. The CTVA forecasted the number of new drivers entering the market will be reduced by 90% for April and 70% for May.

Tenstreet, a recruiting website for truckers, says student hiring fell 35% in almost 2 months. The hiring rate for experienced drivers is down almost 30%

When these licensing agencies begin to open again, we will likely experience a surge in the number of new student drivers and trainees. An increased supply of truck drivers means driving jobs may become harder to find.

Traffic Increases

In an April 2020 release, the American Transportation Research Institute states 87% of survey respondents have experienced shorter traffic congestion delays. The roadways have been all but cleared due to the Coronavirus pandemic’s stay-at-home measures.

Average truck speeds have increased with fewer commuter vehicles on the road. Research shows truck drivers have been clocking average speeds as high as 25mph above normal.

While truckers have been enjoying open highways with fewer commuters, this trend won’t last too much longer. State governments are slowly lifting restrictions and shelter-in-place orders, eager to get back to normal.

Traffic booms are predicted as non-essential workers begin to rejoin the workforce and remote workers return to their places of business. As always, truck drivers should remain focused and keep safety on the top of their minds.

HOS changes

During the pandemic, truck drivers experienced a regulation that most had never even dreamed of. Hours of service regulations, enacted in the 1930s, were relaxed to accommodate the emergent needs of consumers.

There were stipulations, of course. Only those drivers hauling certain products under the emergency declaration were covered, but their HOS rules were almost completely nonexistent.

However, the regulation brought about some concerns from industry leaders. While it is vital for consumers to receive their necessary items in a timely manner, truck drivers’ lives should not be put at risk. Many safety managers have discouraged their fleet from driving over 11 hours, even though it was federally granted per emergency protocol.

Online Training

Thousands of trucking companies have been integrating online safety training for years. It is a much more convenient option for truck drivers. What once took hours of planning, routing, and dispatching to the terminal for an hourlong safety meeting has been simplified.

Users can attend safety training courses on their electronic devices from their sleeper, their home, or their favorite greasy spoon. Technology allows you to concentrate over coffee and a short stack, instead of snoozing through a town hall meeting while dreaming of getting back on the road.

Remote Orientations

In brainstorming solutions to Coronavirus challenges, Infinit-I Workforce Solutions offers remote online orientation. Trucking companies have realized the benefit of online orientation not only for themselves, but for their new drivers as well.

Much the same as online training, orientation can now be conducted through an LMS platform that offers flexibility and convenience to onboarding drivers.

Truck drivers are no longer required to sit through days of orientation for most companies that have taken advantage of online orientation.

Employers can now assign courses to drivers when they are hired on. Content usually ranges from driver handbooks, safety videos, orientation, etc.

Drivers receive all the information before they even head out to the terminal for their first day. Those resources are available to the driver at a moment’s notice throughout his tenure with that company.

No more worrying about finding your tossed aside handbook or losing your fuel book. It is all saved on your phone.

So, what is your best plan of action?

Get comfy with technology.

The movement has already begun from paper to computers, just like converting from paper logs to ELDs.  We are headed toward a future where all training and orientation content will be offered exclusively online.

 

 

More Interesting Articles:

FMCSA is Changing HOS… Again! 4 New HOS Rules

 

Uber Freight and CloudTrucks Give Truckers New Opportunities

 

8 Ways Truckers Relieve Stress During the Pandemic

 

CSA Score Reduction, How to Challenge FMCSA Crash Rulings

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,

FMCSA is Changing HOS… Again! 4 New HOS Rules.

It’s been difficult to adjust to all the changes released by the FMCSA lately. The trucking industry would never have predicted the DOT to relax hours of service regulations. And yet, here we are. Scrambling to research, read, and absorb all the legal jargon thrown our way.

A docket for the outline of the final ruling has been released. Revised HOS regulations will become effective 120 days after publication in the federal register. The actual date has not been released.

 What are the changes?

Pages 8-9 of the final ruling state the changes will include: The 30-minute Break, Introducing the 7/3 Split, Adverse Driving Conditions Exception, and the Short-haul Exception.

 

The 30-minute Break

Drivers are still required to take a 30-minute break after 8 consecutive hours on duty. Previously, the break was only valid if the driver was in an off-duty status. (off-duty or sleeper berth). Now, the break is valid during on-duty functions as long as you are not driving.

Drivers can now legally take a 30-minute DOT break while:

  • – Waiting in line at the shipper/receiver
  • – Fueling or waiting in line at the fuel pump
  • – Co-driver sitting in the passenger seat
  • – Filling out paperwork
  • – Loading/Unloading/Lumping

Just switch your status to On Duty – Not Driving.

Introducing the 7/3 Split

The 8/2 split rule is just as complicated as it is helpful. This new HOS ruling expands a driver’s resting options. In addition to the typical 10-hour break or 8/2 split, the FMCSA is introducing the 7/3 split.

The new 7/3 split rule works the same as the 8/2 split. It takes some drivers years to master the concept. Here is a simplified overview:

Truck drivers can be on duty for 14 hours a shift. Only 11 hours of that can be drive time.  Once they have reached 11 hours of driving or 14 hours since their day started (whichever comes first), they must go off duty for at least 10 hours.

Every driver should know this rule by heart. And most stick to this schedule day in and day out.

But what happens if your delivery time is outside your 14-hour window?

Let’s say a driver starts his shift at 10 am. It is 14 hours until midnight. If he drives 11 hours before midnight, he must stop for 10 hours.

But what if his delivery is scheduled for 2 am? He will be on break; he won’t be able to deliver on time. Unless he uses the new 7/3 split.

So, our driver begins his shift at 10 am, drives a total of 8 hours and arrives at his destination city at 6 pm. That’s too early to deliver but he does not have time to take a full 10-hour break.

With the new rule, the driver must go into the sleeper berth for a full 7 hours. When he wakes up, he can use all the on-duty time that was left over from before his break.

After completing his on-duty functions, he must go back into an off-duty status for at least 3 hours to complete his 10-hour break.

Confusing, right?

In essence, a split will pause the 14-hour on-duty window. When he comes back on duty, he will only have the leftovers from before his 7-hour break. So, if he drove 8 out of 11 hours, after the 7-hour break he can drive the remaining 3 hours.

When he comes out of the sleeper, the 14 starts running again. Since he was on-duty for 8 hours before the 7-hour break, his 3 hours of drive time must be used before his total 14 runs out. He would have 6 hours on duty to get in 3 hours of driving.

After 7 hours in the sleeper:
14 Total – 8 On-duty = 6 On-duty hours left at stop.
11 Drive – 8 drive = 3 Drive hours left at stop.
Must go back off duty for at least 3 hours to complete the break.

 

Modified Adverse Driving Conditions Exception

Under this exception, two extra drive hours are available to drivers who encounter irregular and unforeseen circumstances that may have slowed your travel. This exception can now be applied to passenger-carrying CMVs.

Adverse Driving Conditions Examples:
  • – Sinkhole or downed powerline that causes a delay
  • – Traffic accident that shuts down traffic
  • – Sudden tornado, snow, fog, etc. that was not in the forecast.

If you qualify for this exception, you can now drive up to 13 hours as long as you do it within your 14-hour window. Keep in mind, it does not take away your 30-minute break or extend your 14.

This exception does not extend your 60 or 70-hour clock. If you only have 4 hours left on your DOT clock, you will only be allowed to drive out those 4 hours plus the additional 2 hours.

Drivers must follow up with a full 10-hour break. You are not allowed to split rest hours after taking advantage of this exemption.

Not qualified examples:
  • – Adverse weather you knew about or could have discovered by trip planning
  • – Traffic jams during normal rush hour times
  • – Snowstorm in the winter in North Dakota
  • – Loading and Unloading delays

The DOT strongly recommends you log that you were taking advantage of 395.1 Adverse Driving Conditions Exception.

 

Short-haul Rules

Previously, drivers using the short-haul exemption, staying within an air radius of 100 miles, could not be on duty for more than 12 hours. Short-haul drivers within a 150-mile radius cannot drive beyond the 14 or 16th on-duty hour (depending on the number of days on duty).

This revision extends the radius from 100 to 150 air-miles for all short-haul drivers. It extends the maximum duty period allowed from 12 hours to 14 hours.

 

 

More helpful information:

8 Ways Truckers Relieve Stress During the Pandemic

Clearing Up Relaxed HOS Regulations: How Does It Affect You?

Trucking Safety In a Time of Pandemic

Preplanning During a National Pandemic

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