On the Road

Jul 17, 2009

How to Prevent Truck Theft

CREnglandGirl On the Road, Safety Issues 0 Comment

Truck theft is a scary and all-too-real trend that happens more often than you may think.  In fact, just last week a truckload of pharmaceuticals valued at a staggering $9 million was stolen from a truck stop in Temple, Georgia (read about it here).  The FBI estimates that the U.S. loses $15 – $30 billion each year due to cargo thefts – and that’s a conservative number if you account for the fact that some carriers may not even report losses due to fears of how it might impact their reputation and insurance premiums.  Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned trucker, here’s a few tips to keep you and your haul safe.

  • Never leave the truck idling with the keys in the ignition, even if you lock the door – it only takes a few seconds for thieves (especially experienced ones) to jimmy-rig the lock and open the door.
  • Don’t disclose what you’re hauling to people you don’t know, especially if you’re hauling high-value items such as electronics or pharmaceuticals.
  • At truck stops, park in well-lit areas and as close to the entrance as possible.
  • Avoid stopping at places you know that have a questionable or shady reputation.
  • Install an ant-theft device that can deter thieves.  Some will even disable the ignition system when the truck is forced open, which can make it virtually impossible to start the truck.
  • If you work as a company driver, talk to your carrier about solutions and measures they provide drivers in order to prevent truck theft.

Jul 10, 2009

5 Ways to Reduce Fuel Consumption

CREnglandGirl Fuel, Money, On the Road 1 Comment


And reducing fuel consumption means cutting costs…good news for any trucker!

  • Slow Down – Speeding just isn’t dangerous, it also wastes fuel.  Slowing down just 10 miles per hour from 75 to 65 can increase the mpg of a big rig by more than one mile per gallon.  So ease up, lead foot!
  • Lose the Weight – …from your cab that is!  Lighten your truck’s load by just 100 pounds and you will significantly reduce the amount of fuel needed to haul it.
  • Get a Tune-Up – Keeping your truck in tip-top shape will ensure you’re getting the best possible fuel mileage.  Schedule regular tune-ups for your big rig and it will perform better on the road, reduce overall maintenance costs, and improve fuel efficiency.
  • Quit Idling – Not only is idling illegal in many parts of the country, it’s also detrimental to your gas mileage!  In fact, excessive idling can add nearly 50% to fuel costs.  Find alternative, cheaper ways to heat or cool your cab such as an auxiliary power unit.
  • Increase Inflation – Keeping your tires properly inflated is another simple yet highly effective way to improve gas mileage.  It’s estimated that doing so will not only increase brake performance and the life of your tires, but can save as much as two weeks worth of fuel every year.

Jul 3, 2009

Truck-Related Fatalities Drop

CREnglandGirl On the Road, Safety Issues 0 Comment

There may be more tractor-trailers on the road, but trucking related fatalities are actually down from just last year; 4,229 individuals were killed in accidents involving large trucks, down 12% from 4,822 in 2007.  In fact, the overall number of traffic fatalities is down and in 2008, it hit its lowest level since 1961.   Safety experts and officials say the drop is in part due to increased seat belt use, curbing impaired driving, and making roads and highways safer in general.   While we still have a long way to go regarding driving safety, it’s good to hear it’s getting better!

Jul 1, 2009

Are You in Favor of Speed Governors?

CREnglandGirl Legislation, On the Road, Safety Issues 0 Comment

Well, if you happen to be an independent contractor, you probably aren’t.  Today the L.A. Times published an article about the recent big push to get the U.S. Department of Transportation to require the use of speed governors (devices that limits speed) on big, commercial trucks or get Congress to mandate them in a highway bill.  The American Trucking Associations and other safety advocates are in favor of such a bill but others are none too pleased about it, including conservatives (who oppose government regulation of business) and owners of smaller fleets.   The ATA claims they will not only save lives, but fuel as well.  On the flip side, the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association says that mandatory speed governors are more likely to lead to collisions, like when a driver needs more horsepower for an emergency maneuver and increase traffic congestion when trucks with speed governors try to pass another truck.  Want to learn more about the controversail issue in the trucking industry?  Click here to read the article from the Los Angeles Times in full.

Jun 26, 2009

How to Make Life on the Road More Comfortable

CREnglandGirl Health, On the Road 0 Comment

Sitting for hours on end behind a steering wheel is enough to make anyone feel cramped and sore.  Here’s a few of my favorite produts that can make life a on the road a little more comfortable for truck drivers.

  • Ever feel like that dagnum seat belt is choking you?  Well, no longer with a comfy sheepskin seat belt cover!  Not only are they inexpensive (somewhere between $15 and $25), but the can prevent the seat belt from rubbing, pulling, or chafing uncomfortably.
  • A cheap and easy way to stay even warmer during those cold nights (without idling, of course) is using an electric blanket – simply plug into  your source of power (such as an auxiliary power unit) and you’ll sleep warm and soundly.
  • If you’re one of the few who has yet to do so, get an iPod!  Not only can you upload and listen to your favorite tunes on the road, you can also put your favorite audio books on the iPod, as well as videos to watch during your downtime.
  • To ensure correct posture and reduce back pain, consider getting an ergonomic seat cushion or support.  It’s much more comfortable and better for you than the standard driver seat.  Click here to shop for various seat cushions and seats.
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