Jason Banner

The Dangers of Distracted Driving: How You Can Help

Tips for Avoiding Distracted Driving

It’s officially Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Throughout the month of April, different organizations unite to help drivers safely reach their destinations by encouraging them to remain focused behind the wheel. According to a recent study by the National Highway Transportation Administration (NHTSA), 3,142 people were fatally injured due to distracted driving. 

Distracted driving affects hundreds of people every single day. And what many people don’t know is how it can impact heavy-duty truck drivers. This Distracted Driving Awareness Month, we encourage you to put down your phone, follow the speed limit, and eliminate distractions. In this blog, we will tell you everything you need to know about distracted driving and tips on how to eliminate distractions from your daily commute.

Facts about distracted driving

While answering the phone, eating a quick snack, or jamming to your favorite song may seem harmless, they can have critical consequences when done behind the wheel. When studied, researchers found that reading a text message for five seconds while traveling at a speed of 55 mph is equivalent to driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.

Need more reasons to eliminate distractions from your drivetime? 

Here are a few facts about distracted driving:

  • A 2020 study done by the NHTSA found that 7% of all fatal crashes in 2019 were caused by or related to distracted driving.
  • Another NHTSA study found that 8% of fatal crashes, 15% of injury crashes, and 14% of all police-reported traffic accidents were distraction-affected crashes. Overall, approximately 400,000 people were injured, and 2,841 people died.
  • The NHTSA reported that 1 out of every 5 people killed by a distracted driver was not in a vehicle (walking, jogging, biking, etc.) at the time of the accident.
  • The CDC found that drivers between 15 and 19 were more likely to drive distracted than drivers 20 years of age and older. And 9% of all teen drivers who died in vehicular accidents were involved in distraction-affected crashes.
  • According to the IIHS, the fatal crash rate is three times greater for teen drivers.
  • The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that driver distraction is the cause of more than 58% of crashes involving teen drivers.
  • A research study from Cambridge Mobile Telematics showed that distracted driving habits occurred in more than 36% of all trips across the United States.

The risks are even higher when a truck driver is distracted at the wheel. In fact, “distracted truck driving is more likely to result in fatalities than other types of automotive accidents.” This is because the weight and force of heavy-duty vehicles are much greater than that of a standard passenger vehicle, making them more dangerous in the event of a collision. That is why truck drivers must do their part in eliminating distractions from their drive.

3 types of distracted driving

Over the years, experts in traffic safety have classified distractions into three main categories: Cognitive, Manual, and Visual. If you’ve ever been driving and started thinking about a conversation you had earlier that day or your mental to-do list, you’ve had a cognitive distraction. By definition, a cognitive distraction is when your thoughts distract you from the task of driving. A manual distraction is when you remove your hands from the steering wheel. For example, eating a sandwich or rummaging through your bag is considered a manual distraction. A visual distraction happens when your eyes are not on the road. For instance, if you apply makeup or search for something in your vehicle, you are driving while visually distracted. 

Using your phone while driving, including texting or reading messages, combines all three categories of distractions. The University of Utah found that those who use their phones while driving are 5.36 times more likely to get into an accident than undistracted drivers. The university also found that those who text and drive are comparable to people who drive with a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.08%. For truckers, texting while driving increases your risk of crashing by 23 times, according to Virginia Technical Transportation Institute.

Tips for avoiding distractions

Now that you have all the information about distracted driving, it’s time to help put an end to it. Putting a stop to distracted driving starts with you.

Here are some tips for remaining focused while driving:

  • Don’t eat and drive. Eating will take your hands off the steering wheel and your attention away from driving. If you’re traveling and want a quick bite to eat, find somewhere safe to park and enjoy your break from driving.
  • Put your phone away. Use ‘Do Not Disturb’ or ‘Driving Mode’ to disable incoming messages, calls, and notifications. Placing your phone in your bag or glove box will also help eliminate your temptation to use it. 
  • Just focus. Avoid multitasking by setting your GPS, picking out your music, and making calls or sending texts before you start driving.
  • Keep your music low. Loud music could prevent you from hearing emergency vehicles and CB warnings.
  • Properly secure your belongings. Items falling throughout the vehicle could distract you from the road ahead. Before you take off, secure loose objects and belongings properly.
  • Get plenty of rest. Being tired could cause you to be unalert or fall asleep behind the wheel.

Observe Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Observe Distracted Driving Awareness Month by:

  • Taking the pledge to end distracted driving.
  • Supporting campaigns developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and National Safety Council, as well as state, county, and local law enforcement agencies.

Using the hashtag #DistractedDrivingAwarenessMonth when posting on social media this month.

For more articles about driver safety, click here!

How the Russia-Ukraine Conflict Affects the Supply Chain

Throughout the past two years, supply chains have muscled through numerous challenges as the COVID-19 pandemic impacted industries all over the world. As Russia invades Ukraine, the world’s supply chains face more opposition. And while the problems are significant, new reports show they may worsen.

According to a Dun & Bradstreet report, 374,000 businesses worldwide use Russian suppliers, while approximately 241,000 businesses use Ukrainian suppliers. Out of all of those businesses, around 91.5% of them are based in the United States.

So how will this ongoing conflict continue to affect our supply chains? Which industries will be hit the hardest? And what can we anticipate going forward? We’ve got all the answers here.

What is the Russia-Ukraine Conflict?

On February 24, 2022, Russia initiated a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine. Since then, the death toll has reached well over 200, explosives have ravaged the country, and millions of Ukrainians have fled to neighboring countries. This growing conflict has spread well beyond Ukraine and thoroughly disrupted the world’s shipping and freight industries. 

Since the start of the invasion, Russian forces have caused shipping routes to be cut off, logistic firms to suspend services, and air freight rates to hit an all-time high. All of this has caused severe impacts on the global market, and many industries are feeling the overwhelming sting of this war.

Biggest impacts on the supply chain

The most affected industries include:

1. Fuel

At this point, we’ve all seen the astronomical prices at our local filling stations. As of March 11, the United State’s national average hit $4.33 per gallon, And in states like California, Hawaii, Nevada, and Oregon, people are paying more than $5 per gallon. These extreme prices have started to impact other parts of the economy as well. For instance, drive share and shipping companies have increased what they charge consumers to counteract fueling costs. Other industries that rely on fuel, like farming and construction, have also had to rethink their budgets, leading to higher prices at the grocery store and layoffs on job sites.

→ How the Gas Shortage has Affected the Trucking Industry

2. Raw Materials

Ukraine has slowly become one of the largest raw material suppliers in the world. They exported several materials, such as chemical products, minerals, transportation equipment, and other products. Since the invasion, Ukraine has been forced to increase the cost of its exports. This has caused many countries to slow down the manufacturing of electronics, homes, and vehicles. In some cases, companies have had to shut down production. Ukrainian allies have also ceased trade with Russia, thus losing access to large amounts of nickel, platinum, and 10% of the global copper reserves. These elements play essential roles in producing semiconductor chips, automobiles, jet engines, medicine, etc.

3. Shipping & Transportation

Another industry affected by the Russia-Ukraine conflict is shipping and transportation. Freight companies have started rerouting ground, ocean, and air shipping to avoid Russia and minimize fuel costs. This has led to longer transportation times and higher shipping costs for consumers.

For example, imports leaving Asia take approximately four hours longer to reach their destinations since the cargo jets can no longer fly over Russia. These jets use up to 20,000 pounds of fuel per hour of flight. And with fuel being more expensive, freight companies have no choice but to raise prices for consumers.

 4. Automotive

Since the start of the pandemic in 2020, the automotive industry has struggled with production and inventory shortages. Unfortunately, these troubles don’t seem to be subsiding anytime soon. The sudden increase in the price of fuel, steel, aluminum, and nickel has placed further pressure on the already fragile industry. The more expensive materials force automobile and automotive part manufacturers to slow down or cease production until prices stabilize. Meaning consumers will also continue to experience low inventory levels.

What can we expect moving forward?

As the conflict in Ukraine continues, trucking rates and other transportation costs could continue to increase as the price of oil rises. However, the overall outcome of this invasion is filled with a lot of uncertainty. For this reason, supply chains must prepare and improve their operations by “balancing investments in dedicated teams, processes, and technologies that will enable their organizations to implement end-to-end risk management,” says an analyst from Gartner.

More Like This:

→ How is the Microchip Shortage Affecting Truck Prices in 2022?

→ Where Did All of the Trucks Go?

→ How will the Trade War Between China and the U.S. Impact the Trucking Industry?

What to Consider When Rebuilding Your Diesel Engine

FAQ: Restoring vs Buying New

Every day, all across the country, heavy-duty trucks travel thousands of miles delivering products and keeping our economy flowing. Those miles can be taxing on diesel engines, and without proper care and maintenance, you could find yourself in need of a new one. However, there is another option.

Instead of buying a new engine, you may be able to salvage the one you have by rebuilding it. While the quality of your rebuild depends on the parts and mechanic skills you have, it’s a much cheaper option than purchasing a whole new engine—especially as costs continue to rise.

Is restoring an old engine better than buying a new one?

While it may seem more cost-effective to replace your worn engine with a brand-new one, the fact is rebuilding your engine could save you hundreds of dollars and help you avoid mechanical hurdles.

Overall, it is less expensive to obtain a small repair loan and complete an engine overhaul than it is to finance a new truck. When you buy a new semi, you will be met with a minimum five-year payment plan, eventual repair costs, and more. Repairing/rebuilding your engine will buy you more time with your tried and true truck and save you money in the long run. 

Repairs can be even cheaper (and in some ways easier) if your rig is older. Newer trucks often have computerized systems and components that are expensive and hard to obtain due to the current microchip shortage. However, the parts and labor needed for older semis are relatively easy to get and manage.

To top it all off, older diesel engines are more reliable in some ways. When it comes to your used engine, you know what to expect and prepare for in terms of issues, efficiency, and performance. Plus, engines that have been around for a long time have proven to be longer-lasting, whereas newer engines don’t come with a proven track record.

What you need to know about rebuilding your engine

As previously mentioned, performing proper care and maintenance on your diesel engine ensures optimum performance and longevity. Eventually, you will need to rebuild your engine to improve your truck’s mileage and extend its lifespan. 

When it comes time to rebuild your engine, there are a few things you ought to know. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help.

Q: How do I know if my diesel engine is bad?

The most common ways of detecting a bad diesel engine include:

  • Increased oil consumption
  • Strange sounds coming from your engine
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Issues with engine braking
  • Loss of power/Truck won’t start

–> How to identify when a clutch is failing

Q: When should you rebuild a diesel engine?

Typically, engine rebuilds are performed every 12,000 to 15,000 hours. However, you could extend time in between rebuilds with proper care and maintenance.

Q: How do I know if my engine needs to be rebuilt?

You need to rebuild your engine if:

  • A knocking or buzzing sound is coming from the engine’s bearings.
  • Oil burns on gasoline/Your exhaust smoke has a white hue.

Q: How long will a rebuilt diesel engine last?

If done correctly, an engine rebuild should last more than 100,000 miles. This will depend on the type of engine, however.

Q: What mistakes should I avoid when rebuilding?

The main mistakes to avoid when rebuilding include:

  • Not taking proper measurements of bearing clearances, crankshaft, cylinders, ring end gaps, etc.
  • Not having a clean and organized workstation.
  • Not recording as you dismantle your engine.
  • Using old or worn fasteners or other supplies.
  • Rushing through the process of the rebuild.

Q: Are rebuilt diesel engines reliable?

Yes! It has been proven that engine rebuilds are more reliable, safe, and effective than replacement engines.

Q: How much does an engine rebuild cost?

Engine rebuilds can vary in cost. Everything from the engine’s make to the level of the rebuild can impact the amount you’ll spend. However, the average overhaul cost ranges from $20,000 to $40,000.

–> How to save on diesel emissions repair costs

How a commercial repair loan can help

When your truck engine breaks down or needs parts and repairs, your income and livelihood are put on hold until fixed. And if the repairs or parts required aren’t within your budget, you could be facing quite the predicament. Fortunately, Mission Financial Services can help by offering specialized commercial vehicle repair loans that assist in covering the cost of repairs and help get your rig back on the road. 

To obtain a commercial vehicle repair loan, you will need to complete and submit three online forms, including a credit application, vehicle spec sheet, and sales order.

Get Started Today

Women in the Trucking Industry

It’s officially Women’s History Month! And while women in the trucking industry is nothing new, there has definitely been an increase in the number of females entering the field that has traditionally been male-dominated. 

So, in honor of this month, and International Women’s Day on March 8, we have developed the ultimate trucking guide for women to encourage and aid the industry’s future drivers. This guide will go over how to get started, why more women should enter the field, and why “hiring women drivers is a viable and responsible option for reducing the driver shortage and boosting profitability.”

How to get started as a truck driver

Before starting your career as a truck driver, you will need to obtain proper training and necessary certifications, including a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) license and certificate. To acquire these licenses, you’ll need to complete driving school. However, each state is different, so it’s essential to research your state’s requirements for certification. 

Trucking education and coaching/mentor programs are designed to prepare you for the road ahead and assist you in finding the right job within the industry. Some resources that will help you begin your journey to becoming a driver include:

  • LeadHERtrucking from Women in Trucking (WIT); 
  • Engage Mentor Match through WIT;
  • The Women in Trucking Foundation (WITF) Scholarship
  • WIT Professional Development Certification Training

Once you’ve completed your education and training, it’s time to look for opportunities at companies that are reputable and a good fit for you. 

When it comes to finding a job in the trucking industry, your mentor or trainer may be able to place you in a position that is right for you. However, if you find yourself searching on your own, you can try browsing job boards, bulletins, or company career sites. When vetting these potential workplaces, it’s vital to look for female-specific training options, positive reviews on sites like Glassdoor, a clean track record, and pictures of female drivers on their website.

What makes truck driving a great career for women?

Being a truck driver comes with its fair share of perks that make it a great career choice for women looking to be financially secure and independent, including:

  • Accessible opportunities
  • Competitive salaries
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Full employer benefits
  • Professional training opportunities
  • Thriving freelance market
  • Variety of available jobs and career paths to choose from

Unlike most jobs, truck driving offers reliable income. Plus, it gives drivers the chance to work in an environment free of micromanagement with plenty of opportunities to use unique problem-solving skills. Being a truck driver also allows you to avoid the highly repetitive workforce that most women are corralled into.

Why do women make great truck drivers?

Not only are more and more women becoming interested in truck driving jobs, but recruiters are noticing studies and statistics that prove just how essential women truck drivers are to the industry. 

Here are just 3 of the reasons why women make excellent drivers:

1. Lower driver turnover 

Driver turnover for large fleets typically runs in the 90th percentile, according to the American Trucking Associations (ATA). However, the driver retention rate for women is much higher, meaning women are more likely to remain with one trucking company for a longer period of time than men. The ability to retain truck drivers allows carriers to avoid turnover and retraining costs, which can be quite expensive and time-consuming.

2. Fewer accidents

Despite the stereotypes, women truck drivers, statistically, are involved in fewer accidents, including rollovers and rear-end collisions. Carriers looking to “boost their profits by curtailing insurance and litigation costs should take note of the reliability and safety records being compiled by women in the truck driving workforce.”

3. Higher mileage 

On average, women in trucking tend to log more miles than men. When drivers are able to keep their wheels turning for longer periods of time, they are able to earn more money for themselves and their employer.

4 tips for women truck drivers

1. Network, Network, Network.

One of the many beauties of being a truck driver is gaining access to the large and strong community of fellow drivers. This network of people is always willing to guide and support new drivers, so take full advantage of the wealth of knowledge and experience they offer. Who knows, networking could even help advance your career.

2. Plan your routes.

Planning your routes is a vital component of being a successful truck driver. Not only does it make your job easier by eliminating unnecessary stress, but it also keeps you safer and on time. Need help creating a schedule? Try using scheduling apps and online templates.

3. Find and maintain your support system.

Having a network of fellow professionals is as crucial to your success as having a personal support system when you come home. As a truck driver, you will spend a lot of time on the road, so it is helpful to have people who can handle things at home. This will offer you peace of mind while you are away.

4. Install a CB radio

CB radios have been an essential communication tool for truck drivers and show no signs of disappearing any time soon. Why? Compared to cell phones, CBs are more reliable in areas with poor reception, which can be vital when trying to contact someone for help. Drivers also use them to warn other drivers of upcoming road hazards, traffic, and more.

Happy International Women’s Day!

Top-Selling Transportation Equipment in the U.S.

Over the past two years, a shortage of heavy-duty vehicles has left the shipping industry between a rock and a hard place. This shortage has also caused owners and operators to rely heavily on the trucks they already own or battle for the few that enter the used market. However, depending on your location, some trucks and trailers may not be as readily available as they are in other parts of the country.

In this article, we will break down the top-selling heavy-duty trucks and trailers, what they’re used for, and which regions they are the most popular in.

Most Popular Commercial Trucks and Trailers 

The most commonly sold trucks and trailers include:

  • Box Trucks – Dry Cargo-Delivery: Box trucks (also known as dry cargo-delivery vehicles) are made to transport most goods and products. They are also considered the most common freight vehicle used for shipping. 
  • Cab & Chassis Trucks: These heavy-duty trailers are used when your haul requires unique configurations for safe transportation.
  • Conventional Trucks with a Sleeper & Conventional Day Cab Trucks: Conventional trucks are used for local and regional use, but they also work well for cross-country hauling.
  • Drop Deck Trailers: These trailers are like flatbeds, except they have a lower deck that helps haul taller loads.
  • Dry Van Trailers: Dry vans are typically used for shipments that do not require refrigeration or heating.
  • Dump Trucks: Also known as tippers, dumpers, or tip trucks, dump trucks carry loose materials like construction debris, dirt, or gravel.
  • Flatbed Trailers: Flatbeds are level trailers made from aluminum, wood, and steel and are typically used to haul oversized loads and heavy-duty equipment.
  • Hopper/Grain Trailers: These trailers are designed with sloped sides and multiple hoppers and transport grain and other items in mass quantities.
  • Reefer Trailers: Refrigerated trucks (also known as reefers) are typically used by the meat and dairy industry to transport all perishable food items.

Top-Selling Trucking Equipment by Territory

When it comes to sales, it’s no secret that some products sell better in certain regions. For example, swimsuits and sunscreen tend to sell better in warmer parts of the country, like Florida, as opposed to colder regions, like Alaska. The same idea can be said for heavy-duty equipment, such as trucks and trailers.   

Discover which trucks and trailers pair best with which regions below:

Central

  • Conventional Trucks with a Sleeper
  • Conventional Day Cab Trucks
  • Flatbed Trailers
  • Dry Van Trailers
  • Drop Deck Trailers

North Central

  • Conventional Day Cab Trucks
  • Conventional Trucks with a Sleeper
  • Dump Trucks
  • Hopper/Grain Trailers
  • Box Trucks – Dry Cargo-Delivery

South Central

  • Conventional Trucks with a Sleeper
  • Conventional Day Cab Trucks
  • Flatbed Trailers
  • Dump Trucks
  • Box Trucks – Dry Cargo-Delivery

Mid Atlantic

  • Conventional Trucks with a Sleeper
  • Conventional Day Cab Trucks
  • Dump Trucks
  • Flatbed Trailers
  • Reefer Trailers

Great Lakes

  • Conventional Trucks with a Sleeper
  • Conventional Day Cab Trucks
  • Dump Trucks
  • Flatbed Trailers
  • Dry Van Trailers

Western

  • Conventional Trucks with a Sleeper
  • Conventional Day Cab Trucks
  • Reefer Trailers
  • Dry Van Trailers
  • Cab & Chassis Trucks

North Eastern

  • Conventional Day Cab Trucks
  • Conventional Trucks with a Sleeper
  • Dump Trucks
  • Box Trucks – Dry Cargo-Delivery
  • Cab & Chassis Trucks

South Eastern

  • Conventional Trucks with a Sleeper
  • Conventional Day Cab Trucks
  • Reefer Trailers
  • Dry Van Trailers
  • Flatbed Trailers

Mountain West

  • Conventional Trucks with a Sleeper
  • Conventional Day Cab Trucks
  • Reefer Trailers
  • Flatbed Trailers
  • Dump Trucks
Image Credit: TruckPaper.com

Why a repair loan is important now more than ever

Don’t let the cost of repairs and the current truck shortage slow you down. As a truck driver, your vehicle is your lifeline. When it breaks down or needs parts and repairs, your income and livelihood are on the line. And if the repairs or parts required aren’t within your budget, you could be facing quite the predicament. Fortunately, companies like Mission Financial Services can help by offering specialized commercial vehicle repair loans. These loans assist in covering the cost of repairs and help get your rig back on the road. 

To obtain a commercial vehicle repair loan, you will need to complete and submit three online forms, including a credit application, vehicle spec sheet, and sales order.

Get Started Today

Usage-Based Insurance (UBI): What Owner-Operators Need to Know

The world of insurance has dramatically evolved over the last few years. Companies once offered basic plans for a standard rate. Now, they offer a host of customizable options at different prices and programs that give you the chance to save money. For example, some insurance companies now offer mobile apps or devices that plug into your vehicle and monitor your driving habits. If you prove to be a safe driver, you can save on your monthly costs. This new type of insurance could be transformative to those who own and operate small fleets.

Recently, many providers have introduced a new category of insurance called “usage-based insurance,” or UBI for short. Like the previously mentioned program, usage-based insurance uses different mediums to track drivers’ habits. However, UBI generally focuses on the number of miles one has driven or the usage of the covered vehicle and bills accordingly, hence the name usage-based. This type of plan makes it possible for owner-operators to save significantly on liability insurance and only pay monthly instead of in full.

Let’s discuss usage-based insurance in a little more detail to determine if it’s right for you.

What is usage-based insurance?

In today’s world, there has never been a higher demand for the work of a truck driver. However, like many industries, there are moments of delay or total standstill. It’s for these reasons that those who own and operate the world’s fleets need coverage that offers flexibility.

Usage-based insurance is innovative and customer-centric, offering flexibility and a way for owner-operators to get precisely what they need from their coverage—nothing more, nothing less. Unlike most insurance plans requiring upfront payment and charge fees for excess cargo, UBI allows fleet owners to increase their operational efficiency, minimize their monthly spending, and mitigate load and risks by only paying for coverage when needed.

What are the advantages of UBI?

Advantages of usage-based insurance include:

  • You get great discounts and savings. Most insurance companies who offer UBI also offer a 10-25% premium discount for responsible driving. Plus, you may continue to receive this discount every year if you continue to qualify.
  • Employees can be tracked. Typically, with usage-based insurance, the covered vehicle and driver will receive a physical device or mobile app that provides geofencing and alerts you if the vehicle has gone outside of the predefined limits or even exceeds the speed limit.
  • Drivers will gain better driving habits. As previously mentioned, most UBI coverage includes a telematics device that allows you to monitor your drivers. So, if they brake too hard, drive above the speed limit, or use evasive maneuvers, you’ll know. This “eye on the inside” will allow you to address these unsafe driving habits and save money as they improve.
  • Accident investigations are easily handled. If the insured vehicle is involved in a collision, it’s easier for the authorities and claim investigators to pinpoint the cause of the accident, leading to a more accurate claim.

What are the disadvantages of usage-based insurance?

Disadvantages of usage-based insurance include:

  • It doesn’t recognize defensive driving. As mentioned above, telematics devices can monitor one’s driving habits and report them back to the insurance company. However, there are many instances where drivers must use defensive driving skills to avoid an accident. In many cases, these monitors cannot know the difference between reckless driving and protective measures.
  • Privacy risks included. The trackers used with usage-based insurance store a ton of data, including driving information, location, and more. This data is then linked to your name and stored in a database. How this information can be used past the insurance company is vague, especially since they must always be on, or you risk losing your savings.
  • It can be somewhat of a hassle. For companies with a more extensive fleet, the installation process and overall learning curve require a large amount of effort that may or may not be worth the savings.

Is usage-based insurance the right choice?

There are a few things that can help determine if usage-based insurance is right for you and your fleet.

Usage-based insurance may be right for you if:

  • You travel less than 11,500 miles per year.
  • You are a safe and responsible driver.
  • You don’t mind being monitored by your insurance provider.

If you answered ‘yes’ to these three things, then you may want to look into a usage-based insurance plan.

More Like This

→ Buying vs. Leasing a Semi-Truck: An Owner Operator’s Guide

→ 5 Common Tax Myths Debunked

→ How Owner/Operators Can Prepare for Tax Season

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