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Since 1998, more than 3.4 million truck brakes have been inspected as a result of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) Operation Airbrake Program. Each year, this program hosts Brake Safety Days across the United States, Canada and Mexico to ensure commercial vehicle brake systems are in proper working condition. The next event is coming up on September 7.
Fifty feet ahead there’s a pothole in the road. Do you continue going straight or change lanes to avoid it? While dodging it may not always be possible, it is best practice to try. As a truck driver, you’re in control of how your vehicle is operated and how well it sustains everyday driving conditions. Poor driving habits such as fast acceleration, hard braking, speeding and driving over potholes can greatly affect the performance, reliability and fuel efficiency of the truck.
Over-the-road (OTR) truck drivers know how difficult it is to exercise, eat healthy and get enough sleep while they’re on the job. This situation is so common that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) conducted a study and found that 69 percent of long-haul drivers are considered obese, compared to 31 percent of the national working population. By practicing better daily habits, the risk of common health issues can be avoided. Start a healthier lifestyle behind the wheel by using the tips below.
When was the last time you drove on a highway or an interstate without passing a semi-truck along the way? With more than 15.5 million big rigs currently operating in the United States, probably never. But, even though you’re constantly sharing the road with semis, do you really know much about them? Take a look at the list below for some interesting facts about 18-wheelers — some of them may surprise you.
Did you know the production and use of retread tires saves the trucking industry more than $3 billion annually? As new tire prices continue to increase, fleet managers are searching for ways to reduce costs, while still operating safe and dependable vehicles. The use of recap tires is one solution fleets have found to combat this issue, and many are seeing benefits from utilizing them. Learn how retread tires are made, the benefits of using them and how to maintain them.
Rising maintenance costs. Data analysis overload. Not enough time dedicated to equipment upkeep. Does any of this sound familiar when thinking about your company’s fleet maintenance department?
According to the Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC), tires are the cause of 53.5 percent of roadside breakdowns. However, tires aren’t the only contributor to truck problems. Other components like brakes, electrical systems and refrigeration units cause issues, too.
Which electrical component is the primary power source for a vehicle when it’s running?
Did you know it usually takes the length of two football fields for a semi-truck traveling at 65 mph to stop moving when brakes are operating normally? Because big rigs have longer stopping distances, it’s important to understand the different types of brakes, how they function, and how to maintain them so you can drive and stop safely. Commercial vehicles have air brake systems that are equipped with drum or disc brakes (or both) — the information below can help you understand each type.
To help increase roadway safety, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) performs inspections on commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and ensures all parts and components are in good working condition. As a truck driver, you’re probably familiar with this process. But, do you know the specifics of each inspection level or the most common violations? Learn how to prepare yourself and your equipment by gaining a better understanding of what to expect from DOT inspections.