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Jon Osburn and OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, will be at the TA in Beto Junction, KS. That’s located at Exit 155 off Interstate 35. Stop in, say hi to Jon, and join OOIDA for a $20 discount. To see Jon’s full schedule, click here.

Meanwhile, OOIDA Life Member Ron Mermis and his NASCAR simulator are at the TA in Wildwood, FL. That’s located at Exit 329 off Interstate 75. You can join at a discount with Ron as well. For more information about the simulator, click here. 

Air date: May 17, 2013.

This week's poll:

 

Archive for June, 2008

30
Jun
2008

June 2008

by Web

Great West Truck Show – Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine Field Editor, Suzanne Stempinski about the Great West Truck Show that took place in Las Vegas,Nevada, June 26-28.

  • You can go to the Great West Truck Show Web site here.
  • For upcoming truck shows, click here to read “Land Line Now’s” industry calendar.

Air date: June 30, 2008.

Howard Salmon – Reed Black spoke to OOIDA member Howard Salmon about his music on a recent stop at the OOIDA headquarters in Grain Valley, Missouri. To contact Howard and find out more about his music, click here. Air date: June 30, 2008.

Trans Texas Corridor – Reed Black spoke to Terri Hall, Executive Director of Texans Uniting for Reform & Freedom, TURF, about the recent action by Texas DOT concerning TTC-69, Trans Texas Corridor-69.

  • You can learn more about TURF on their Web site here.
  • You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.

Air date: June 30, 2008.

Truck Insurance – Terry Scruton talked with Ed Briley of OOIDA’s Truck Insurance Customer Service Department about different types of truck insurance.

  • You can visit the new OOIDA Truck Insurance Web site here.
  • If you have a question about truck insurance, you can call 1-800-715-9369.
  • If you have a question about truck insurance you’d like answered on the air, you can call our comment line at 1-800-324-6856.
  • You can e-mail questions about insurance you’d like answered on the air here.

Air date: June 30, 2008.

Market Manipulation – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about speculation being blamed for high fuel prices. You can read more by Land Line Magazine here. Air date: June 30, 2008.

Canadian Speed Limiters – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the passage of the Ontario’s speed limiter bill. To read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: June 30, 2008.

Ohio Road Closures – In today’s news, Reed Black reported I-70 in Ohio is closed due to flooding. You can visit Ohio Department of Transportation Web site here. Air date: June 27, 2008.

EPA Meeting – Mark Reddig gave us highlights of a meeting at OOIDA headquarters with staff members of the EPA and other agencies. To visit those agencies:

  • Click here for the U.S. EPA Web site.
  • Click here for the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Web site.
  • Click here for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment Web site.
  • Click here for the Missouri Department of Transportation Web site.
  • Click here for the Kansas Small Business Environmental Assistance Program Web site.
  • Click here for the Johnson County, KS, Environmental Department Web site.
  • Click here for the EPA’s Smartway program Web site.
  • Click here for the Mid-America Regional Council Web site.
  • Click here for the Blue Skyways Collaborative Web site.

Air date: June 27, 2008.

Contacting lawmakers – To call the members of Congress who specifically represent you in the House and Senate, dial the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121. Provide the operator with your ZIP code, and he or she can connect you directly to the office of your senators or representative. Air date: June 27, 2008.

ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Dark clouds and silver linings – A trucker recently offered a bright spot in the debate over carriers who have lowered their limited speeds. Mark Reddig discussed the topic in a recent blog.

  • To read Mark’s blog, click here.
  • To read other entries on the Land Line Now Blog, click here.

Compliance reviews – Terry Scruton spoke with Jeff McConnell and James Mennella – who also write the “Road Law” column in Land Line Magazine – about what to do during a compliance review. If you have questions or comments regarding transportation law, you can:

Air date: June 26, 2008.

Per diem – Terry Scruton spoke with John Turner, CPA and owner of The Trucker’s Accountant, about per diem allowances.

  • You can find more information on his Web site here;
  • Or you can call directly at (281) 464-9443.

Air date: June 26, 2008.

State Update – Colorado and Louisiana – Reed Black talked with Land LineMagazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Colorado, Gov. Bill Ritter has signed a bill into law authorizing the use of speed cameras in highway work zones. Meanwhile, in Louisiana, truck drivers no longer have to worry about the possible adoption of a statewide rule prohibiting them from accessing the far left lane on certain roadways.

  • To read about more legislation in Colorado, click here.
  • To read about more legislation in Louisiana, click here.

Air date: June 26, 2008.

TRUCC – Mark Reddig spoke to Laura O’Neill about the TRUCC Act. The fuel surcharge legislation is listed in the Senate as S.2910. The House version is HR 5977.

Air date: June 26, 2008.

ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Dark clouds and silver linings – A trucker recently offered a bright spot in the debate over carriers who have lowered their limited speeds. Mark Reddig discussed the topic in a recent blog.

  • To read Mark’s blog, click here.
  • To read other entries on the Land Line Now Blog, click here.

Air date: June 26, 2008.

Tail Drag – Reed Black spoke with Robert Englar of Georgia Tech regarding research on increasing aerodynamics to reduce trailer tail drag.

  • To read a federal report on the concept, click here.
  • To read a Science Daily report on the Georgia Tech research, click here.

Air date: June 25, 2008.

Diesel update – Mark Reddig presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.

  • To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
  • To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
  • To see how to compute your own fuel surcharge through OOIDA’s online guide, click here.

Air date: June 25, 2008.

Member offer – OOIDA members Bob Van Alst and John T. Alden are sponsoring the membership cost for a total of 15 new people to join OOIDA. To take part, all you have to do is call our special member offer line. Just dial 1-800-324-6856, and press 3. The offer is open only to new, first-time members. Air date: June 25, 2008.

ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Hot Fuel: It’s baa-aaack – Mark Reddig discusses an issue that’s particularly relevant right now – hot fuel.

  • To read Mark’s blog, click here.
  • To read other entries on the Land Line Now Blog, click here.

TRUCC – Mark Reddig spoke to Rod Nofziger about the TRUCC Act. The fuel surcharge legislation is listed in the Senate as S.2910. The House version is HR 5977.

Air date: June 24, 2008.

State Update – Ohio and Illinois – Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine StateLegislative Editor Keith Goble. In Ohio, aspiring truck drivers may soon have to have a firm grasp of the English language to obtain a commercial driver’s license. Meanwhile, inIllinois, a bill that sought to expand the use of cameras to ticket red-light runners at intersections has died.

  • To read about more legislation in Ohio, click here.
  • To read about more legislation in Illinois, click here.

Air date: June 24, 2008.

Debbie Latham and Dr. John McElligott – Terry Scruton spoke with dietitian Debbie Latham and Dr. John McElligott of the Professional Drivers Medical Depot about their new partnership.

  • To visit Debbie Latham’s Web site here.
  • To learn more about the PDMD clinics, click here.

Air date: June 24, 2008.

Chance Rodgers Update – Terry Scruton spoke to Chance Rodgers. Chance is a 12-year-old boy suffering from bone cancer who was the focus of a fundraiser at 2008 Mid-America Trucking Show.

  • You can visit Chance’s Web site here.
  • Chance would love to get post cards from his friends in the trucking world. You can mail them to:
    • Chance Rodgers
      P.O. Box 25
      Midland, OR 97634

Air date: June 24, 2008.

Hot Fuel – During today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig mentioned hot fuel. To view OOIDA’s hot fuel Web site, click here. Air date: June 23, 2008.

i-Zoom Girl – In today’s news, Reed Black mentioned billboards on the Illinois Tolls that feature the “i-Zoom Girl.” To read a blog on the topic by David Tanner, staff writer forLand Line Magazine, click here. June 23, 2008.

Disposable people – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig talked about radiation-based security scanners used at border crossings. To read a blog by Mark Reddig, click here. June 23, 2008.

Roses & Razzberries – Terry Scruton and Jami Jones offered up some of our patented Roses & Razzberries. If you are an OOIDA member and want to offer up your own rose or razzberry for our consideration, you can do it through the Members Only section of our Web site. Just click here. Air date: June 23, 2008.

Calendar – For upcoming truck shows, click here to read “Land Line Now’s” industry calendar. Air date: June 23, 2008.

ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Change the channel on this idea – Mark Reddig talks about the latest developments in the Arizona laptop computer fines story.

  • To read Mark’s blog, click here.
  • To read other blogs by the Land Line Now staff, click here.

Road Closures – In today’s news, Terry Scruton talked about road closures caused by flooding in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin. Use the links below to get the latest road closure information.

  • You can go to the Illinois DOT list here.
  • You can go to the Iowa DOT Web site here.
  • You can go to the Missouri DOT Web site here.
  • You can go to the Wisconsin DOT Web site here.

Air date: June 20, 2008.

Pennsylvania Call to Action – OOIDA has issued a Call to Action to members and other truckers in Pennsylvania concerning HB 25-93, a bill to authorize leasing the state’s Turnpike.

  • You can read the Call to Action here.
  • Written comments are due by 8:30 am Thursday, June 26. Comments should specifically mention HB 25-93, and will be accepted via mail or fax.
    • You can mail comments to:

Rep. Joseph F. Markosek
314 Irvis Office Building
PO Box 202025
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
17120-2025

    • You can fax comments to (717) 705-1891.
    • You should also send your comments to your state representative and state senator. Contact information can be found here. Submit your information in the box titled “Find Members By” located in the upper right hand corner of the Web page.
  • And you can read more by Land Line Magazine here.

Air date: June 20, 2008.

Cost of Operation – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about knowing your cost of operation. Below are several links to assist you:

  • An online guidebook that leads you through figuring your cost of operation can be found here.
  • A worksheet you can download on your computer and modify can be foundhere. (Please note, this is an Excel program and you must have Excel on your computer to download it.)
  • You can also read Land Line Magazine’s coverage of the issue here.

Air date: June 20, 2008.

Canadian Speed Limiters – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the passage of the Ontario’s speed limiter bill. To read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine,click here. Air date: June 20, 2008.

Arizona laptops – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the recent Arizona laptop citations. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click on the links below.

Air date: June 20, 2008.

Trucking history – Mark Reddig spoke with Jim Dobbas, a 60 year trucking veteran. One of his trucks is on display at Hays Antique Truck Museum; you can view their Web site here. Air date: June 20, 2008.

Calendar – For upcoming truck shows, click here to read “Land Line Now’s” industry calendar. Air date: June 20, 2008.

FRIDAY RANTS: Where the beef? – During a previous food safety crisis – which involved meat – Land Line Magazine staff writer Clarissa Kell-Holland offered her thoughts, and some information, about the situation. The issue came up again recently when people across the country started to get sick, the result of salmonella in some varieties of tomato. To read Clarissa’s blog on the topic, and other entries in our Friday Rants series, click here. Air date: June 20, 2008.

Protest Rally – OOIDA members Bob and Sherrie Bond are organizing a fuel protest rally in Chehalis, WA, on Saturday, June 21, to bring media and lawmakers’ attention to how high fuel prices are continuing to punish small-business truckers there. The rally is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at an open lot near Exit 72, west of Interstate 5. The lot is visible from the interstate. This is the second protest the Bonds have organized. They organized the first one back in April when fuel was at $4.20 a gallon. For more information about the rally, call (360) 880-4818. Air date: June 20, 2008.

Road Closures – In today’s news, Terry Scruton talked about road closures caused by flooding in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin. Those floods are now moving into Missouri. Use the links below to get the latest road closure information.

  • You can go to the Illinois DOT list here.
  • You can go to the Iowa DOT Web site here.
  • You can go to the Wisconsin DOT Web site here.
  • You can go to the Missouri DOT Web site here.

Air date: June 19, 2008.

State Update – North Carolina and New Hampshire – Mark Reddig talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In North Carolina, a bill would allow longer tractor-trailers on more roads throughout the state. Meanwhile, in New Hampshire, a bill on its way to the governor’s desk is intended to help protect funding for transportation work throughout the state.

  • To read about more legislation in North Carolina, click here.
  • To read about more legislation in New Hampshire, click here.

Air date: June 19, 2008.

2290s – Terry Scruton spoke with Scott O’Dell from OOIDA’s permit and license department about the annual 2290 forms, which are due July 1. To read more from OOIDA.com, click here. Air date: June 19, 2008.

Energy prices – Mark Reddig spoke with Mike Joyce of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office about a letter that went to every member of Congress calling for immediate action on high energy prices.

  • To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here.
  • To read the letter, which was spearheaded by the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors, click here.

Air date: June 19, 2008.

EPA grants – In today’s news, Terry Scruton reported on a $50 million EPA grant program to help truckers pay for engine replacements, retrofits and anti-idling devices such as APUs. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: June 19, 2008.

Diabetic help – Terry Scruton spoke with dietitian Debbie Latham about diabetes and how you can manage it. You can visit Debbie’s Web site here. Air date: June 19, 2008.

Roadside memorials – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about legislation in Missouri that would have made roadside memorials a thing of the past. You can read a blog by Mark from Land Line Now Web site here. Air date: June 19, 2008.

Contacting lawmakers – To call the members of Congress who specifically represent you in the House and Senate, dial the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121. Provide the operator with your ZIP code, and he or she can connect you directly to the office of your senators or representative. Air date: June 19, 2008.

ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Disposable People – Some border crossings are still exposing truckers to the radiation from drive-through scanners that are supposed to scan only the trailer’s contents. Mark Reddig tackles the topic.

  • To read Mark’s blog, click here.
  • To read other entries on the Land Line Now Blog, click here.

Road Closures – In today’s news, Terry Scruton talked about road closures caused by flooding in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin. Use the links below to get the latest road closure information.

  • You can go to the Illinois DOT list here.
  • You can go to the Iowa DOT Web site here.
  • You can go to the Wisconsin DOT Web site here.
  • Air date: June 18, 2008.

Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.

  • To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
  • To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
  • To see how to compute your own fuel surcharge through OOIDA’s online guide, click here.

Air date: June 18, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re also asking truckers who call the line to answer this question: “What are you hearing from the people you deal with (brokers, shippers, trucking companies, etc.) about the effects of rising fuel?” Air date: June 18, 2008.

John Ewing – Terry Scruton spoke with John Ewing of The Truckers Helper about business management. For more information, check out The Truckers Helper on the Webhere. Air date: June 18, 2008.

It’s Your Business – Donna Ryun, OOIDA’s communications director and Land Line Magazine columnist, spoke about leasing on with a carrier. To send Donna a question, click here. Air date: June 18, 2008.

ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: It’s a bad idea, I ga-ron-tee – Mark Reddig talks about a bill in Louisiana – tried elsewhere as well – to restrict trucks out of the left lane.

  • To read Mark’s comments, click here.
  • To read other entries on the Land Line Now Blog, click here.

IdleAir – In today’s news, Terry Scruton reported that IdleAir has been sold. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: June 17, 2008.

State Update – Connecticut and Missouri – Mark Reddig talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Connecticut, the General Assembly approved a bill to offer consumers a break from high fuel prices, while in Missouri, a bill atop the governor’s desk would call for trucker-hopefuls to prove they have a firm grasp of the English language to obtain a commercial driver’s license. The bill also would outlaw “sanctuary” cities in the state.

  • To read about more legislation in Connecticut, click here.
  • To read about more legislation in Missouri, click here.

Air date: June 17, 2008.

Cab comfort – Stephen Petit discussed cab comfort. You can view Stephen’s Web sitehere. Air date: June 17, 2008.

PDMD – Terry Scruton talked with Dr. John McElligott of the Professional Drivers Medical Depots clinics about prescription drugs. To learn more about the clinics, clickhere. Air date: June 17, 2008.

Canadian Speed Limiters – Mark Reddig spoke with OOIDA’s Laura O’Neill about the passage of Ontario’s speed limiter bill. To read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: June 17, 2008.

LISTEN ONLINE: Energy Market Manipulation – Terry Scruton brings us highlights of a congressional hearing into whether market manipulation is playing a part in the high price of fuel. To listen to part of this story online and other sound clips, click here.

Road Closures – In today’s news, Terry Scruton talked about road closures caused by flooding in Iowa and Wisconsin. Use the links below to get the latest road closure information.

  • You can go to the Iowa DOT Web site here.
  • You can go to the Wisconsin DOT Web site here.

Air date: June 16, 2008.

Miami TomCats – Reed Black spoke to Sgt. Arthur Schimek of Miami-Dade Police Department Robbery Bureau about TomCats – a special unit that works on cargo theft crimes.

  • To learn more – including how to avoid cargo theft and how to report one – visit the TOMCATS Web site here. You can find information through a series of links on the right side of the page.
  • To call the TOMCATS, dial (305) 471-3400;
  • To e-mail the TOMCATS, click here.

Air date: June 16, 2008.

Truck Insurance – Terry Scruton talked with Ed Briley of OOIDA’s Truck Insurance Customer Service Department about different types of truck insurance.

  • You can visit the new OOIDA Truck Insurance Web site here.
  • If you have a question about truck insurance, you can call 1-800-715-9369.
  • If you have a question about truck insurance you’d like answered on the air, you can call our comment line at 1-800-324-6856.
  • You can e-mail questions about insurance you’d like answered on the air here.

Air date: June 16, 2008.

Engine brakes – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig talked about Minnesota legislation that restricts the use of engine brakes.

  • To read about that bill and its status, click here.
  • To read about legislation in Minnesota, click here.

Air date: June 16, 2008.

FROM THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: The only think limited here in brainpower – Mark Reddig tackles some of the arguments made by supporters of speed limiters.

  • To read Mark’s blog on the topic, click here.
  • To read other entries on the Land Line Now Blog, click here.

Ontario speed limiter update – Mark Reddig spoke with OOIDA’s Rick Craig, Tom Weakley and Laura O’Neill about the fast-tracking in Ontario with the speed limiter bill.

  • To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here.
  • To express your opinion about the proposed speed limiter requirement:
    • Write or call Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario, Ferguson Block-12th Floor, 77 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON, M7A1N3, Canada. Phone: (416) 325-1941.
    • Write or call Jim Bradley, Ontario Minister of Transportation, Ferguson Block-3rd Floor, 77 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON, M7A1Z8, Canada . Phone: (416) 327-9200.
    • Write or call your member of parliament. If you live in Ontario and want to call your lawmakers, you can get contact information from the Membership Department here at OOIDA at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: June 13, 2008.

Road side memorials – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about legislation in Missouri that would have made roadside memorials a thing of the past. You can read a blog by Mark from Land Line Now Web site here. Air date: June 13, 2008.

FRIDAY RANTS: Bridge Post-Holing – On today’s show, Elizabeth Anderson of Land Line Magazine offered her opinion of the safety of our nation’s transportation infrastructure.

  • To read Elizabeth’s rant, click here.
  • To read other entries in our Friday Rants series, click here.

Air date: June 13, 2008.

Calendar – For upcoming truck shows, click here to read “Land Line Now’s” industry calendar. Air date: June 13, 2008.

State Update – Louisiana and Rhode Island – Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Louisiana, a bill is intended to prevent law enforcement officers from going on ticket-writing sprees, while in Rhode Island, the House approved a bill that ensures red-light cameras in the state will be around longer.

  • To read about more legislation in Louisiana, click here.
  • To read about more legislation in Rhode Island, click here.

Air date: June 12, 2008.

TRUCC – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the TRUCC Act. The fuel surcharge legislation is listed in the Senate as S.2910. The House version is HR 5977.

Air date: June 12, 2008.

Louisiana – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about truck lane ban legislation in Louisiana. To read about SB341 and other legislation in Louisiana, clickhere. Air date: June 12, 2008.

Arizona laptops – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the recent Arizona laptop citations. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: June 12, 2008.

Diabetic help – Terry Scruton spoke with dietitian Debbie Latham about low carb diets for diabetic drivers. You can visit Debbie’s Web site here. Air date: June 12, 2008.

Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.

  • To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
  • To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
  • To see how to compute your own fuel surcharge through OOIDA’s online guide, click here.

Air date: June 12, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re also asking truckers who call the line to answer this question: “Have you slowed down and if not, why not?” Air date: June 12, 2008.

ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Don’t forget the hot fuel – Mark Reddig talks about an issue that has disappeared from the headlines of late, but that – with record-high fuel prices – is more important than ever. To read the blog, click here.

Truckers for Troops – In today’s follow up, Reed Black spoke with a soldier who has been receiving one of the Truckers for Troops care packages paid for by donations from truckers from across the nation.

  • You can still donate to the Truckers for Troops effort by calling OOIDA’s Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.
  • OOIDA is soliciting personal letters to be sent to our soldiers overseas as part of the association’s care packages. You can mail them to us at OOIDA Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1,000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry, or e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com.

Air date: June 11, 2008.

Illinois construction zones – Reed Black reported on a speed enforcement crackdown in Illinois construction zones. To read more by Land Line Magazine, clickhere. Air date: June 11, 2008.

Arizona laptops – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the recent Arizona laptop citations. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: June 11, 2008.

Dashboard confidential – Terry Scruton spoke with Dave Sweetman, a columnist forLand Line Magazine. You can link to Dave’s column from the June issue of Land Line Magazine here. Air date: June 11, 2008.

Canadian speed limiters – Mark Reddig spoke with Laura O’Neill, who updated us on the Canadian speed limiter situation after a parliamentary hearing in Ontario.

  • To read more about the Ontario hearing by Land Line Magazine, click here.
  • Truckers are also urged to contact the head of the provincial government, The Honorable Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario, Ferguson Block-12th Floor, 77 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON, M7A1N3, Canada. Phone: (416) 325-1941.

Air date: June 11, 2008.

LISTEN ONLINE: Trucking history – Mark Reddig talks to truckers who are preserving this industry’s past. To listen to this and other sound clips from the show, click here.

Arizona laptops – Reed Black gave us an update on Arizona laptop citations. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: June 10, 2008.

Market Manipulation – Terry Scruton gave us highlights of a Senate Commerce hearing where speculation is being blamed for the fuel prices. You can read more byLand Line Magazine here. Air date: June 10, 2008.

State Update – West Virginia and Ohio – Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In West Virginia, a new law is intended to open the door to public-private partnerships. Meanwhile in Ohio, a bill would allow trucks loaded with three steel coils to run heavier on certain highways.

  • To read about more legislation in West Virginia, click here.
  • To read about more legislation in Ohio, click here.

Air date: June 10, 2008.

SuperRigs – Jami Jones, senior editor of Land Line Magazine, gave us highlights of the SuperRigs competition, which took place June 5-7 at the Iowa 80 Truck Stop.

  • You can read more about SuperRigs by Land Line Magazine here.
  • To view Shell’s list of results, click here.

Air date: June 9, 2008.

LETTERS TO LAND LINE NOW: Building a Better Mousetrap – Host Mark Reddig and Producer Barry Spillman answer listener questions about higher mileage cars and music on the show. To read the latest, click here. Air date: June 10, 2008.

Speed Limiters – In today’s news, Reed Black spoke about an Ontario parliamentary hearing regarding a proposed speed limiter requirement. You have until June 10th to get your comments to the Justice Committee

  • To comment to the Justice Committee, which is holding hearings on the legislation:
    • E-mail the clerk of the committee here.
    • Call the committee with your comments by dialing (416) 325-7352.
  • To read more about the hearing by Land Line Magazine, click here.
  • You can also express your opinion by calling and writing the top elected officials in Ontario:
    • The Honorable Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario, Ferguson Block-12th Floor, 77 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON, M7A1N3, Canada. Phone: (416) 325-1941.
    • The Honorable Jim Bradley, Ontario Minister of Transportation, Ferguson Block-3rd Floor, 77 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON, M7A1Z8, Canada . Phone: (416) 327-9200.
    • Member of Parliament Frank Klees said he welcomes input from truckers, and encourages them to e-mail him comments here. You can also mail him a letter at: Frank Klees, Member of Provincial Parliament, Room 447, Legislative Bldg., Queen’s Park, Toronto, Ontario, M7A 1A8
    • If you live in Ontario and want to call your lawmakers, you can get contact information from the Membership Department here at OOIDA at1-800-444-5791.

Air date: June 9, 2008.

Laptops – In today’s news, Reed Black offered an update on the Arizona laptop issue. You can read more by Land Line Magazine below:

Air date: June 9, 2008.

Hot Fuel – During today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig mentioned OOIDA’s hot fuel Web site. To view that Web site, click here. Air date: June 9, 2008.

SuperRigs – Jami Jones, senior editor of Land Line Magazine, gave us highlights of the SuperRigs competition, which took place June 5-7 at the Iowa 80 Truck Stop.

  • You can read more about SuperRigs by Land Line Magazine here.
  • To view Shell’s list of results, click here.

Air date: June 9, 2008.

Roses & Razzberries – Terry Scruton and Mark Reddig offered up some of our patented Roses & Razzberries. If you are an OOIDA member and want to offer up your own rose or razzberry for our consideration, you can do it through the Members Only section of our Web site. Just click here. Air date: June 9, 2008.

ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Speculating about speculation - Host Mark Reddig takes on the topic of manipulation and speculation in the oil futures market in a commentary today.

  • To read Mark’s blog, click here.
  • To read other entries on the Land Line Now Blog, click here.

Transportation Security Program – Mark Reddig spoke with Don L. Rondeau, OOIDA senior security adviser, about OOIDA’s part in the newly created Transportation Security Program.

  • To read a press release from OOIDA, click here.
  • To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here.

Air date: June 6, 2008.

Laptops – On today’s show, we offered an update on the Arizona laptop issue. To read more by Land Line Magazine below:

Air date: June 6, 2008.

Speed Limiters – Mark Reddig spoke with OOIDA’s Laura O’Neill about an Ontario parliamentary hearing regarding a proposed speed limiter requirement.

  • To read more about the hearing by Land Line Magazine, click here.
  • To comment to the Justice Committee, which is holding hearings on the legislation:
    • E-mail the clerk of the committee here.
    • Call the committee with your comments by dialing (416) 325-7352.
  • You can also express your opinion by calling and writing the top elected officials in Ontario:
    • The Honorable Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario, Ferguson Block-12th Floor, 77 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON, M7A1N3, Canada. Phone: (416) 325-1941.
    • The Honorable Jim Bradley, Ontario Minister of Transportation, Ferguson Block-3rd Floor, 77 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON, M7A1Z8, Canada . Phone: (416) 327-9200.
    • Member of Parliament Frank Klees said he welcomes input from truckers, and encourages them to e-mail him comments here. You can also mail him a letter at: Frank Klees, Member of Provincial Parliament, Room 447, Legislative Bldg., Queen’s Park, Toronto, Ontario, M7A 1A8
    • If you live in Ontario and want to call your lawmakers, you can get contact information from the Membership Department here at OOIDA at1-800-444-5791.

Air date: June 6, 2008.

Run for the Wall – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig talked about the Run for the Wall, which started in California and ended at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, DC.

  • To visit the Run for the Wall Web site, please click here.
  • To view a video or still photographs of the bikers passing by, and OOIDA staff cheering them on, please click here.

Air date: June 4, 2008.

Join the Call to Action Team – You can take a more active role in trucking issues by joining the OOIDA Call to Action list. To sign up, just send an e-mail with your name, membership number and current e-mail address here. Air date: June 6, 2008.

FRIDAY RANTS: On your own - On today’s show, Reed Black offered some observations he had after witnessing a truck wreck on a dangerous exit ramp.

  • To read Reed’s rant, click here.
  • To read other entries in our Friday Rants series, click here.

Air date: June 6, 2008.

Infrastructure financing – Mark Reddig spoke with Mike Joyce about a meeting of a transportation infrastructure and financing commission that took place this week. To view the commission’s Web site, click here. Air date: June 5, 2008.

State Update – Minnesota – Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Minnesota, the governor signed an omnibus transportation policy bill that includes several provisions of interest to truck drivers. To read about more legislation in Minnesota, click here. Air date: June 5, 2008.

Join the Call to Action Team – You can take a more active role by joining the OOIDA Call to Action list. To sign up, just send an e-mail with your name, membership number and current e-mail address here. Air date: June 5, 2008.

Contacting lawmakers – To call the members of Congress who specifically represent you in the House and Senate, dial the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121. Provide the operator with your ZIP code, and he or she can connect you directly to the office of your senators or representative. Air date: June 5, 2008.

ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: A sure cure for inflation – Our news anchor, Reed Black, relates the story of how South Vietnam’s government fought troubling economic conditions … although he doesn’t suggest we try it here.

  • To read Reed’s blog, click here.
  • To read other entries on the “Land Line Now” Blog, click here.

Air date: June 5, 2008.

Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.

  • To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
  • To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
  • To see how to compute your own fuel surcharge through OOIDA’s online guide, click here.

Air date: June 4, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re also asking truckers who call the line to answer this question: “Do you use an anti-siphoning device? Do you think they work?” Air date: June 4, 2008.

Market manipulation – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig mentioned the Senate Commerce Committee hearing about energy market manipulation. You can read more by Land Line Magazine here. Air date: June 4, 2008.

Truckers’ Health– Terry Scruton talked with Dr. John McElligott of the Professional Drivers Medical Depots clinics about bariatric surgery. To visit PDMD’s Web site, clickhere. Air date: June 4, 2008.

TRUCC – Mark Reddig discussed the latest news about the TRUCC Act with OOIDA’s Rod Nofziger. The fuel surcharge legislation is listed in the Senate as S.2910. The House version is HR 5977.

Air date: June 4, 2008.

New York truck ban – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig talked about New York imposing truck bans and tolls. You can read more by Land Line Magazinebelow:

Air date: June 4, 2008.

Land Line Magazine – If you’re a trucker, and you want to keep up on news in the industry:

  • You can subscribe to Land Line Magazine by clicking here.
  • You can subscribe to Land Line’s Daily eNews, click here.
  • You can access Land Line Magazine’s Web site here.

Air date: June 4, 2008.

ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Fertilizing tomatoes with a bag of salt - Mark Reddig addresses the contention that speed limiters help safety in his latest blog.

  • To read Mark’s blog on limiters, click here.
  • To read all the blogs by the Land Line Now staff and others, click here.

Air date: June 4, 2008.

Energy market manipulation – Mark Reddig spoke with OOIDA’s Mike Joyce about a Senate hearing on whether the price of oil has been manipulated in the markets. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: June 3, 2008.

Land Line Magazine – We previewed the upcoming June issue of Land Line Magazine on today’s program.

  • You can access Land Line Magazine’s Web site here.
  • If you’re a trucker, and you’d like to receive the magazine, click here.
  • If you would like to subscribe to Land Line’s Daily eNews, click here.

Air date: June 3, 2008.

State Update – Louisiana and Michigan – Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Louisiana, a bill would make uniform speed limits on highways a thing of the past. It also would limit big rigs to the right lane on interstates. Meanwhile, in Michigan, Republicans at the statehouse say they have a plan to help consumers facing high fuel prices.

  • To read about more legislation in Louisiana, click here.
  • To read about more legislation in Michigan, click here.

Air date: June 3, 2008.

ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Putting lipstick on a pig – Mark Reddig offers a few thoughts on how some fueling stations are coping with record high diesel prices – and how it doesn’t address the real problem. To read his blog on the topic, as well as other blogs by the Land Line Now staff and others, click here.

CVSA Roadcheck – Reed Black reminded everyone about the CVSA Roadcheck inspection blitz scheduled for June 3-5. To read more by Land Line Magazine, clickhere. Air date: June 2, 2008.

Canadian Speed Limiters – Mark Reddig talked with OOIDA’s Laura O’Neill about the Canadian proposal to require speed limiters in all trucks that travel in Ontario. To express your opinion, call or write the top elected officials in Ontario:

  • The Honorable Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario, Ferguson Block-12th Floor, 77 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON, M7A1N3, Canada. Phone: (416) 325-1941.
  • The Honorable Jim Bradley, Ontario Minister of Transportation, Ferguson Block-3rd Floor, 77 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON, M7A1Z8, Canada . Phone: (416) 327-9200.
  • Member of Parliament Frank Klees said he welcomes input from truckers, and encourages them to e-mail him comments here. You can also mail him a letter at: Frank Klees, Member of Provincial Parliament, Room 447, Legislative Bldg., Queen’s Park, Toronto, Ontario, M7A 1A8
  • If you live in Ontario and want to call your lawmakers, you can get contact information from the Membership Department here at OOIDA at 1-800-444-5791.

In addition, you can read more by Land Line Magazine here. Air date: June 2, 2008.

Truck Insurance – Senior Correspondent Terry Scruton talked with Ed Briley of OOIDA’s Truck Insurance Customer Service Department about some common questions they get in the Truck Customer Service department.

  • You can visit the new OOIDA Truck Insurance Web site here.
  • If you have a question about truck insuran ce, you can call 1-800-715-9369.
  • If you have a question about truck insurance you’d like answered on the air – you can call our comment line at 1-800-324-6856.

Air date: June 2, 2008.

Trucking history – Mark Reddig brought us highlights of the 2008 Antique Truck Show and National Convention of the American Truck Historical Society show in Hutchinson, KS.

  • You can visit the ATHS Web site here.
  • You can visit the Hays Truck Museum Web site here.

Air date: June 2, 2008.

Body Mass Index – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig mentioned a proposal to check truckers based on BMI, or body mass index, by the FMCSA’s CDL Medical Review Board.

  • You can visit Medical Review Board Web site here.
  • You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.
  • You can visit the Web site of the CDC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, here to calculate your BMI.

Air date: June 2, 2008.

TRUCC – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig mentioned the fuel surcharge legislation supported by OOIDA. The legislation is called “The TRUCC Act — Trust in Reliable Understanding of Consumer Costs,” or S.2910. The House version is HR 5977.

Air date: June 2, 2008.

ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Putting lipstick on a pig – Mark Reddig offers a few thoughts on how some fueling stations are coping with record high diesel prices – and how it doesn’t address the real problem. To read his blog on the topic, as well as other blogs by the Land Line Now staff and others, click here.



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26
Jun
2008

Who else would tolerate this?

by Mark H. Reddig

We’re continuing to get reaction from truckers on Reed Black’s interview with a motor carrier executive on speed limiters, mileage and pay.

And many of those reacting still have things to say that we haven’t heard in this debate yet.

Again, I respect anyone who has a different opinion on this. But I don’t think anyone – truckers included – should have to donate their time.

When you take a trip that requires an extra day because you’re compelled to run under the legal speed limit, and you’re paid by the mile, that’s what you’ve done – you just worked a day for free.

Who else in American society is asked to do this? Who else would tolerate it?

Truckers have to donate time for loading and unloading; they have to donate time for inspections; they have to donate time for all kinds of activities that they perform unpaid.

I understand that for some when you’re going slower that the trip is more relaxing, that there’s less stress involved. Some drivers who favor lowering the speed on limiters have made that point when they call me, and I understand their point about driving slower … even agree with it.

But if that’s what you want, shouldn’t it be your choice? Why should you be forced to whether you like it or not?

And remember, all of this talk about pay and relaxation leaves out the fact that speed limiters hurt safety.

I’m just having a tough time figuring out how this is a good deal for any trucker.



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25
Jun
2008

Finding the dark cloud around the silver lining

by Mark H. Reddig

On Monday’s show, we brought you several comments by Herb Schmidt of Conway Truckload, and from truckers, about speed limiters, mileage and trucker pay.

The issues are pretty much familiar to all of you out there – but what’s surprising us are the reactions we’re receiving.

Several more of you called in after our latest installment, and one of you had an interesting take on the situation.

That trucker, a woman named Teresa, said that now that her carrier has turned her speed limiter back, if the dispatcher gives her an impossible deliver time, she can basically say, too bad, can’t do it, you set my speed too slow to get it there by then.

She then, very politely, very “sweetly,” in her words, tells the dispatcher that if they have a problem with that, to see the president of the company. After all, that’s who set the speed.

I noticed that when Teresa talked about this, she said it was “the only good thing that I’ve found” about turning down speeds.

Correct me if I’m wrong, but I assume that means she normally finds plenty wrong with that.

However, I like her point of view. A carrier really can’t complain about you running compliant, or push you to get there on time no matter what, if you can’t move the truck faster.

I still have concerns, though. And that’s because speed limiters compromise safety.

I have no objection if a trucker – a person actually behind the wheel – looks at the road they’re driving, looks at conditions and traffic, and makes a determination that it’s safe to slow down to save some fuel.

I have a real problem when an accountant who’s never been behind the wheel of a semi, who’s not there, and who can’t see the traffic or conditions, then determines that a truck needs to slow down … even if doing so is unsafe.

I do like the way you’ve found a silver lining in this dark cloud, Teresa. But the fact is, the dark cloud is still with us.



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24
Jun
2008

Hot fuel: It’s baa-aaaack

by Mark H. Reddig

It was all but certain that hot fuel would become an issue once again.

OOIDA first brought this issue to light years ago through the work of John Siebert, a project leader at the OOIDA Foundation.

Later it became the subject of an investigative series in The Kansas City Star, written by reporter Steve Everly.

That series led to articles in newspapers across the nation and, eventually, coverage on CNN and other television networks.

Now, with a new summer season and record fuel prices everywhere, Fox News has picked up the story again.

Several truckers called to tell us about the coverage. Some were just informing us; some were giving a little ribbing to Fox News for treating it as a brand new story.

I kind of agree – it’s pretty clear that others beat Fox News to the punch on this. But who cares? I’m glad they’re covering it, and I hope all the other networks bring the topic back as well.

We need to convert the outrage that all Americans are feeling toward pump prices, and direct that toward this issue.

It won’t solve the fuel price crisis. But every penny we save counts.

And solving this sure won’t hurt.



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23
Jun
2008

Change the channel on this idea

by Mark H. Reddig

We continue to get calls about the enforcement effort by Arizona against truckers who use laptop computers in the cabs.

Once again, at this point, the state has declared a moratorium on enforcement, pending a ruling from the FMCSA and CVSA.

A lot of truckers are still hopping mad about this. But some are not so sure.

I have heard from some truckers who talk about folks texting behind the wheel, diverting their attention from the road for long periods while moving, looking at videos on Web sites … the kinds of behavior that I think we’d all agree are best avoided.

But if you glance occasionally at the screen, just as you would glance at any other gauge or meter or device on your dash, and if you only glance, and don’t stare at it – in effect, if you use some common sense – it should be no problem.

We can’t legislate common sense. I wish we could.

But those who act responsibly with their laptops will continue to do so, while those who act irresponsibly about this will either continue to do so in spite of the threat of tickets, or they’ll act irresponsibly in some other way.

Cutting off a useful function for truckers who do act responsibly won’t fix this.

And incorrectly enforcing a regulation meant for televisions on some other unrelated device won’t fix it either.



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19
Jun
2008

Disposable people

by Mark H. Reddig

A while back, we reported on the show about a problem with drive-through scanners used at border crossings.

The scanner operators are supposed to wait for the cab – and the trucker – to pass through before turning the device on, so the truckers won’t be exposed to the scanners rays.

One trucker called in recently to say operators at some border crossings were being more careful.

I had hoped that was a sign that media attention and complaints had caused them to be more cautious. And while that may be true in some cases, it turns out it wasn’t in all cases.

We heard this week from one of our regular listeners that at least one border crossing in Washington state hasn’t changed their behavior at all. And that is terrible news.

This is plain irresponsible. And especially in light of a sign that same trucker saw posted there. It read, “Caution, High Radiation Area.”

We see this attitude all over – that companies, government agencies, and others regard their workers as important, set up safety protocols for their people, take steps to keep those folks from harm, provide them with benefits and facilities.

But, at the same time, those same people regard truckers as disposable people.

It’s bad enough when a shipper or receiver won’t give a trucker the simple decency of using a clean bathroom. To expose directly them to danger, to risk their health out of pure laziness … that is inexcusable.

I’d urge any other trucker who’s facing this to call the agency involved, call your state lawmakers, call your member of the U.S. House and both your U.S. Senators.

If you don’t get action, call again.

We need to put some public pressure on the workers who are being so careless. It’s worked in some cases, and hopefully it will finish this problem off for good.



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18
Jun
2008

All truckers suffer from the high price of fuel

by Mark H. Reddig

What is the impact of fuel prices on your life?

It’s a question everyone has an answer for. And none of the answers are good.

We’ve actually heard from some truckers whose carriers pay for their fuel, saying that the price doesn’t affect them.

I wish that statement really hadn’t been made. It seems pretty obvious to me that we are all affected by the high fuel price, no matter what we do for a living, or who we work for.

Even if you don’t pay for one ounce of fuel in that truck, you and your family eat. You buy groceries. You have to pay for fuel to drive to the store, and you have to pay at the store for the extra cost of fuel to haul it there.

Here’s the real kicker, pointed out recently by a trucker named Floyd Miller: Very often, the person who paid for that fuel doesn’t get the extra money you paid at the store.

Pretty much everyone in trucking knows that brokers absorb a lot of the fuel surcharges paid by grocery warehouses, food retailers and other shippers and receivers.

So why does that matter to you, or to your husband or wife, or to any other trucker or their spouse.

Simple. Here’s just one example.

If your carrier isn’t getting that surcharge, you can bet you won’t. Maybe large carriers are getting that money, but what about smaller carriers that often get their loads from brokers.

If you work for one of them, you can bet that raise is even further off than it was before.

Once again, this is an issue where all truckers need to stand together. If we don’t, we’ll all be in a world of hurt.

Remember what Benjamin Franklin said: “We must all hang together, or assuredly, we shall all hang separately.”



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17
Jun
2008

It’s a bad idea, I ga-ron-tee

by Mark H. Reddig

Lawmakers in the state of Louisiana recently considered a bill that would have kept tractor-trailers from using all the lanes on multilane highways in the state.

For those who haven’t heard of this yet, or who missed our broadcast the other day, the bill is SB341.

The bill is dead now, but it could come back in the future – and we see this kind of bill come up in other states on a fairly regular basis.

It makes no sense to do this. It could have an effect we’ve described on our program many times – an impenetrable wall of trucks in the right lane, keeping cars from merging on or exiting off.

Does that really sound safe? Should we really be doing this? Or is this just a way to make some four-wheelers feel like something’s being done when, really, nothing that actually improves highway safety has happened.

Like we haven’t seen that trick before.

Some states handle this with signs that say “slower traffic stay right.” The problem is all those drivers who simply think to themselves, “I’m not slower, so I’m OK here in the left lane.”

By the way, for any four-wheelers reading this, if you’re going 55 miles per hour in the left lane, and the speed limit is 70, you are slower traffic.

Just a little tip for you there.

In Kentucky, the signs say “stay right except to pass.” You can debate whether you are slower, or what that word is intended to mean. Whether or not you’re passing is a little less subjective.

States that pass this kind of bill aren’t moving ahead … they’re taking a giant step backward. Let’s hope that before any other state considers a measure like this, their lawmakers wake up and smell the coffee.



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16
Jun
2008

‘Nobody does anything about it’

by Mark H. Reddig

There’s an old quote from a man named Charles Warner. He said, “Everybody talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it.”

The problem – and the irony – is obvious. No one does anything about the weather because they can’t.

The same can be said about the price of oil. We can’t change it. The only thing we can do is cope.

One of the ways truckers are coping with current fuel prices is by asking for a fuel surcharge.

I don’t need to tell anyone here that truckers aren’t all getting it, that, in fact, most aren’t.

Now, one of our regular callers has found a new aspect to the situation. It turns out that some shippers have been listening to XM Satellite Radio, and heard some of the folks there saying that they’re on a mileage contract, and pay only $1.25 – or a similar, incredibly low figure – for their fuel … no matter what.

The shipper our caller talked to was furious. Why, he said, should he have to pay a 58-cent surcharge for fuel when the trucker was paying a buck 25?

Good question.

I hope our caller explained the reality of the situation as most truckers experience it.

A very limited number of truckers have that deal, where they only pay a set price for fuel, and are insulated completely from the free market forces the bulk of other truckers face.

To those truckers, I say good for you. I’m glad you found a carrier who’s willing to shoot you that deal, and I wish all truckers could get the same deal.

But we all need to be careful and explain to folks outside the industry how this really works. We need to explain how rare that situation is, how most truckers really do pay the price at the pump.

If we don’t, we risk a misinformed public turning on the whole industry. And that would be very bad, indeed.



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13
Jun
2008

The only thing limited here is brainpower

by Mark H. Reddig

You can always count on truckers to come up with reasons for or against something that you never thought of.

The debate over speed limiters has been no exception.

The big argument being pursued now in Canada is the green one – that speed limiters will save fuel and cut emissions.

One trucker who called in ran the numbers. And he points out that if big carriers are interested in saving fuel and cutting emissions, why not install an APU on every truck in their fleet?

That would save far more fuel than the limiters would. Again, he ran the numbers – and it’s not just a little more savings … it’s a huge savings over what limiters would do.

Yet larger carriers are often the slowest to adapt use of APUs or other idle-reduction technology. We hear from company drivers every day who don’t have any alternative to idling on their trucks.

The fact is, the large carriers who are pushing for speed limiters do it for this reason:

Their bean counters have determined a speed that they think is optimum for fuel mileage. Mind you, this is a figure that leaves out the effect of driving techniques on fuel mileage, but that’s what they arrive at.

So the company limits its trucks to that speed.

Well, turns out many truckers don’t like to drive limited trucks. So recruiting becomes tough. Those truckers who don’t like the limiters sign on with other companies.

So how does a big carrier solve this dilemma? By getting their government to pass a law forcing all trucks to have limiters. If all companies are the same, there’s no recruiting advantage.

The best way to do that? Take some hot-button words – safety, environment, green – and plug what you want into those issues.

Let’s face it folks – speed limiters don’t make you safer, they don’t make you greener and the environment won’t get any better if you have them. There are things that accomplish those goals, but this isn’t it.

There is science for these conclusions – studies conducted, for example, by Professor Stephen Johnson of the University of Arkansas.

His research shows that while the one limited truck may use less fuel and put out less in emissions, because the rest of the traffic has to accelerate and brake and then accelerate again to get around it, they all use more.

Want to get green? Buy an APU. That will actually have an effect.

The arguments used to support speed limiters are false. Those debate points are created to hide the real reasoning; they are smoke and mirrors, a magician’s trick meant to distract you with illusion so you don’t notice the reality that’s about to bite you in the behind.

It’s time to shatter this illusion, break down this false argument, and stop a proposal that will do the exact opposite of its stated purpose.



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