Trucking: ELDs Boost Efficiency, but Major Challenges Persist

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Sep 5, 2024

Electronic Logging Devices in trucks help track driver hours, but challenges with compliance and safety persist.

ELDs have not reduced accidents as expected, and their effectiveness in improving road safety remains contested within the trucking industry.

Since the implementation of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) in Canada, Transport Canada and other authorities claim that these tools have helped improve safety in the trucking industry. By automatically and accurately recording work hours, ELDs are designed to limit excessive fatigue, which is often linked to accidents caused by prolonged driving periods. The main objective is to ensure that drivers comply with legal driving and rest schedules to prevent incidents related to exhaustion.

Electronic monitoring makes it much harder to falsify logs, a common practice with paper records. Before the introduction of ELDs, it was easy to manipulate daily logs, discard them, or switch logbooks, allowing drivers to exceed authorized hours of service, which increased the risk of accidents. The implementation of ELDs has thus brought greater transparency and more accurate tracking of driving hours.

Challenges Persist in Trucking

However, not everyone in the industry shares this optimism. Some argue that ELDs have not significantly reduced the number of truck-related accidents. Studies even show a slight increase in fatal accidents involving heavy trucks, raising doubts about the actual effectiveness of these devices in improving safety.

Moreover, ELDs enforce rigid schedules, which do not always account for unforeseen circumstances, such as the availability of rest areas. Some drivers, in an effort not to lose valuable hours, choose to continue driving despite being fatigued, thereby increasing the risk of accidents. Instead of stopping to rest, they prefer to maximize their driving time to avoid delays and impacts on their professional and personal lives.

“About 80% of the problems we have with ELDs stem from drivers who wanted to do more and changed their hours,” explained Andre Tardif, President of TEC Transport Expert-Conseil, on Truck Stop Quebec radio. “Companies call us frequently, saying they don’t want to fire the driver, but they want to know how to handle the situation. Many drivers go ‘off-duty’ at the customer site, claiming they are not working. But the law on driving and working hours is clear: if you are available for your employer and assigned tasks, then you are on duty.”

Additionally, some truckers have found ways to bypass these devices by using fake accounts to extend their driving hours. There are even reports of carriers altering ELD data to add driving hours for their drivers, allowing them to work longer. While illegal, this shows that technology alone is not enough to ensure safety if not accompanied by strict enforcement of regulations.

“For companies that were already compliant under paper logs, the ELD provided additional tools to ensure compliance, as they now have real-time information. But those who were gaming the system before continue to circumvent it because companies are given access to ‘correct’ the hours, which leaves the door open for falsification, and we witness this daily,” explains Jean-Claude Daignault, President of the Fraternity of the Road Transportation Officers of Quebec.

Another issue arises from the fact that local companies operating within a radius of less than 160 km are exempt from using ELDs, which opens the door to potential abuse. For example, in the city snow removal sector during winter, drivers can often exceed authorized hours of service without being monitored by an electronic device, increasing the risks related to fatigue.

Many voices in the trucking industry continue to doubt that ELDs are the silver bullet for all safety problems. To truly improve safety, it is essential to combine ELDs with other measures, such as ongoing driver training, increasing parking availability for heavy trucks, and more flexible working conditions. These solutions would reduce pressure on drivers and better enforce mandatory rest periods, thus reducing the risks related to fatigue and exceeding hours of service.

Fatigue remains a major cause of accidents among truckers, according to the Canadian Safety Council, exacerbated by long driving hours despite strict regulations.

Employee Crushed Between Two Trucks at Loading Dock

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sophie

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Sep 5, 2024

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A trucking employee was fatally crushed between two trucks at a loading dock in Alsip, Illinois, emphasizing the need for safety and blind spot training in the trucking industry.

A fatal trucking accident claimed the life of an employee at a transportation company in Alsip, Illinois, on September 3rd. The man, who was assisting in directing a semi-truck into a loading dock, was crushed between the moving truck and a parked trailer.

Initial reports indicate that the employee was attempting to guide the truck into the loading space when he became trapped between the two vehicles. He was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead later that day. Authorities are still investigating the exact circumstances surrounding the accident.

Loading Dock Accidents: A Common Hazard in Trucking

Loading dock accidents are a frequent hazard in the trucking industry, particularly when safety protocols are not rigorously followed. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has documented numerous incidents where employees have been crushed between trailers and docks, often due to unexpected vehicle movements or miscommunication between workers.

Typical risks in these situations include:

Poor visibility around maneuvering trucks;
Gaps between docks and trailers during loading;
Unsecured pedestrian traffic in loading areas.

Preventing Loading Dock Accidents in Trucking

To prevent accidents around loading docks, it is crucial that employees receive proper training on blind spots and safe behaviors near heavy vehicles in motion. Many accidents occur due to a lack of awareness about the areas drivers cannot see. Implementing comprehensive training programs, alongside clear communication protocols between drivers and workers, can greatly reduce these risks.

Far too many accidents like this one occur, emphasizing the need for improved safety measures in the trucking industry. These incidents highlight the importance of revising safety protocols at loading docks to protect both employees and drivers. Businesses must act proactively, not reactively, to prevent avoidable tragedies.

Truck Parking: A Critical Issue for Road Transport Safety

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sophie

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Sep 5, 2024

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The truck parking shortage is a major concern in the road transport industry, impacting the daily operations and safety of truck drivers.

In June, the U.S. Congress announced a $200 million allocation in a legislative bill aimed at increasing safe parking spaces for commercial vehicles. This bill, HR 9028, which was introduced in July, provides grants to improve driver safety and increase the availability of truck parking facilities.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) will be responsible for distributing these grants to states and local governments. To qualify, projects must meet specific criteria, such as addressing truck parking capacity in key corridors and improving road safety. This initiative could alleviate the burden on truck drivers, who often spend valuable time searching for safe parking spaces.

The shortage of truck parking has been a persistent issue in the trucking industry for decades. According to a USDOT study, 98% of drivers report difficulties finding secure parking, leading to significant financial losses. Legislation like the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act, which proposes $755 million over three years to expand rest areas, provides hope for meaningful change.

In Canada, truck drivers face similar challenges. Major highways often lack safe parking spaces, forcing drivers to park in unsafe areas or continue driving while fatigued. While investments in road infrastructure are crucial, the need for truck parking is urgent. Governments are focusing on the electrification of transport, but driver safety must be a top priority, starting with ensuring that truckers can access parking whenever needed.

The truck parking issue is a growing concern, particularly in high-traffic areas such as British Columbia and Ontario. Truck drivers, especially around the Lower Mainland in B.C., struggle to find adequate overnight parking. There is only one significant facility on Highway 91 near Nordel Way, with plans for additional spaces in North Surrey, but this will provide minimal relief considering the demand. The region has over 20,000 heavy vehicles, and drivers are often forced to park in unsafe or unauthorized locations, which creates safety and logistical problems for both the industry and local communities.

Similarly, Ontario faces significant challenges in cities like Brampton and Caledon, where illegal truck parking has become rampant. With Peel Region serving as a central hub for Canada’s supply chain, the shortage of truck parking spots puts immense pressure on both truckers and local governments. Various levels of government are now working to address these issues by considering innovative solutions such as utilizing underused facilities and revising land-use policies.

As the demand for freight transport grows, sustainable solutions are essential. Improved planning, the integration of parking location technologies, and the expansion of rest areas along major highways are key strategies that could be adopted in Quebec to address this critical issue.

Lowe’s Truck Intercepted with 17 Illegal Immigrants Hidden in Secret Compartment

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sophie

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Sep 4, 2024

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In Texas, a fake Lowe’s truck was stopped at a checkpoint where officers discovered 17 illegal immigrants hidden in a secret compartment.

If you’ve ever driven your truck in the southern United States, you’ve likely passed through a checkpoint where armed officers, sometimes accompanied by dogs, inspect vehicles. These checkpoints, especially near the Mexican border, are primarily set up to identify immigration law violations, but they also help intercept drugs, illegal weapons, and other criminal activities.

Last Friday, during an operation in Texas, 17 illegal immigrants were found inside a fake Lowe’s transport truck. The suspicious vehicle was intercepted by agents from the Texas Department of Public Safety, who, after a thorough inspection, uncovered a hidden compartment. Inside, 13 men and 4 women were crammed into a space of only 90 centimeters, suffering from dehydration and numbness after hours of confinement.

Lieutenant Chris Olivarez shared the discovery on social media, where footage captured by a police camera quickly went viral. The driver, Megel Cazanna Patterson, claimed to have no knowledge of the clandestine operation. He now faces human trafficking charges, an offense that severely endangered the lives of the passengers.

The 17 immigrants were handed over to U.S. Border Patrol authorities. This incident highlights the effectiveness of these checkpoints in detecting such operations, where officers carefully scrutinize every detail. In this case, it was the unusually new materials on the truck that initially raised suspicion among the agents.

Watch video : @TxDPS Finds 17 Illegal Immigrants Smuggled Inside False Compartment, Mississippi Driver Arrested

Double Brokering: Consequences for Owner-Op in Trucking

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sophie

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Sep 4, 2024

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Here are several recommended steps to ensure the security and integrity of transportation transactions and avoid double brokering in trucking

Double brokering is a frequently fraudulent practice within the trucking industry that can cause serious issues for companies, particularly owner-operators. This method involves re-brokering a load without the shipper’s consent, creating a complex and opaque chain of subcontractors. This practice exposes owner-operators and other involved parties to significant financial and operational risks.

What is Double Brokering?

Double brokering occurs when a broker or carrier accepts a load from a shipper and then secretly re-brokers it to another broker or carrier. For example, a broker (Broker A) might accept a load for $3,000 and then find a carrier (Carrier B) willing to transport the load for $2,000. Broker A pockets the $1,000 difference without informing the shipper of the additional subcontracting. This lack of transparency erodes trust, as the shipper is unaware of who is actually transporting their goods.

Consequences for Businesses and Owner-Operators

For owner-operators, double brokering leads to significant financial and legal consequences. In the event of a problem, it becomes challenging to determine liability, which can result in costly legal disputes. Furthermore, legitimate carriers risk not being paid, leading to financial complications for all involved parties.

Financial and Operational Impact

The financial impact of double brokering is considerable. Original brokers see their profit margins reduced due to the additional costs incurred by managing the complications of double brokering, such as damaged, lost, or delayed cargo. Additionally, delivery delays can harm their reputation with clients, making customer retention more difficult. Carriers also suffer financial losses, particularly small owner-operators who may lack the resources to absorb these setbacks.

The Need for Strict Regulation

To protect owner-operators and enhance transparency, strict regulations against double brokering are essential. Measures such as rigorous verification of broker licenses and insurance, along with severe penalties, can help reduce this practice. Ultimately, combating double brokering is crucial to ensuring a fair and secure business environment, allowing owner-operators to thrive without being burdened by unfair practices.

Multiple Drivers Penalized by OPP for Distracted Driving in Ontario

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sophie

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Sep 3, 2024

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Drivers Cited for Distracted Driving by OPP in Ontario

On August 31st, a tanker truck overturned on Highway 401 westbound near Shannonville Road. Officers from the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Lennox & Addington County quickly responded to the scene, but the situation soon escalated. No fewer than 18 drivers, including two truck drivers, were caught using their phones while driving to film the accident scene and take photos, despite the presence of emergency responders and the potential risks their actions posed. Each driver was issued a $615 fine.

On September 1st, a similar incident occurred on Highway 417, where an Ottawa motorist was stopped by OPP officers for using their phone to film an accident scene. This behavior, which not only endangers the person filming but also jeopardizes the safety of all other road users, led to the driver receiving a $615 fine, along with three demerit points and a three-day license suspension.

Over the Labor Day weekend, law enforcement intensified traffic enforcement across Ontario’s East Region. This operation, which ran from August 30th to September 2nd, resulted in the issuance of 1,653 citations, with 34 specifically for distracted driving.

Unfortunately, several fatal accidents were also reported during this period, highlighting once again the dangers associated with speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving. According to Inspector Walid Kandar of the OPP East Region, these tragic incidents serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and adherence to safety regulations for all drivers on the road.

Another Female Truck Driver Victimized by a Fellow Trucker in Vaudreuil-Dorion

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sophie

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Sep 3, 2024

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For the second time in less than a week, a female truck driver has fallen victim to road rage in the Vaudreuil-Dorion area. The driver, known for her professionalism, was attacked by two individuals, one of whom was armed with a bat, while trying to maintain order in a queue of trucks waiting to unload.

The incident occurred near the Enviro Connexions facility on Marie-Curie Street, where several trucks were lined up to unload. A driver, employed by a subcontractor for Ricova, attempted to cut the line, causing frustration among the other truckers. The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, tried to defuse the situation by politely asking the driver to respect the queue. However, the attempt at dialogue quickly turned violent when the trucker, refusing to comply, physically assaulted her.

The man struck the woman with a punch to the shoulder, and another individual exited the same truck wielding a bat. The attacker also smashed the female trucker’s cellphone against a wall as she attempted to record the license plate number.

In response to this unacceptable behavior, Enviro Connexions took immediate action to ban the responsible driver from its premises. Ricova also responded by demanding that its subcontractor permanently remove both individuals involved from all routes managed by Ricova. The Sûreté du Québec was called to the scene to investigate the assault.

A few days earlier, another female truck driver, Stephanie Ross, was similarly attacked on the Ile-aux-Tourtes bridge. The attacker, a trucker in his forties, was arrested by the Sûreté du Quebec after striking Ms. Ross in the face, leaving her unconscious. This disturbing rise in road rage is alarming for the trucking community, particularly for the women who are part of it.

Free Coffee and Sandwiches for Truck Drivers at Irving

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sophie

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Sep 3, 2024

0

Free Coffee and Sandwiches for Truck Drivers During National Trucking Week at Irving

This week, in honor of National Trucking Week, Irving is showing its appreciation to all truck drivers by offering a little extra on the road: free coffee and sandwiches!

Simply stop by any participating Irving station and mention that you’re a truck driver—no proof required. Just say you work in the transportation industry as a trucker, and you’ll be eligible for this offer, valid through September 8th.

This initiative is a way for Irving to recognize the crucial role you play in keeping the economy and daily life running smoothly. This well-deserved break is Irving’s way of saying thank you for all the hours you spend on the road. So, take a moment to rest and enjoy a complimentary snack at a participating Irving station this week, as a token of gratitude for everything you do.

Modification of Driving Hours on ELDs and Falsification – Who is Responsible?

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sophie

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Sep 3, 2024

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The modification or falsification of driving hours on Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) has raised significant concerns within the trucking community. We recently received a question from a truck driver involving a complex situation where changes were made to their ELD, commonly known as an electronic logbook, without their consent.

After informing their dispatcher that they were two hours short of reaching their client, the driver discovered that these two hours had been added to their ELD without approval. This unauthorized modification has led to serious concerns regarding who bears the responsibility—the driver or the company—if the authorities detect this falsification.

Andre Tardif from TEC Transport addressed this question, stating:

“The Canadian technical standard requires that the driver must approve any modifications, regardless of their origin. Let me give you an example. I have clients who occasionally call me because we manage their ELDs, and it’s not uncommon for them to contact me instead of their dispatch. ‘André, I forgot to log my break yesterday. Can you close my day? I stopped at 5 PM.’ No problem. It takes a minute, and it’s done. We go on the platform and make the change. But the platform won’t apply the change until the driver accepts it. They receive a notification of the modification. If they don’t accept it, the log won’t change. But if they do, they sign off on it—they sign the log.”

In the specific case of this trucker, we pointed out that once the modifications were made, the driver seemingly had no further ability to reverse or contest the changes. It appeared that the driver had never actually approved this falsification.

“This is because the operator took control of the tablet. Sometimes, when a client has trouble with their tablet, especially new drivers who aren’t very comfortable with the system, we may do it for them. The client tells me, ‘I don’t understand.’ So, we take the tablet and show them what to do. It’s as if the driver is doing it because I’m on their tablet, within their system. But let’s be clear, this is far from compliant for the driver. Personally, I wouldn’t do something like that. If you did that to me, I would take the time to annotate my log because that’s something you can do. I would note that it wasn’t me who made that change. However, even with annotations, if you drive the two hours you weren’t supposed to, the annotations won’t matter if you get pulled over.”

In response to concerns about potential accidents, we emphasized the inherent risks when driving hours are not properly adhered to.

Andre Tardif responded: “Forget it. If someone modifies your log and you refuse, that’s perfect. No matter what the log says, you can contest it. You provide your written statement, saying this isn’t how you intended to do things. But if you continue to drive despite knowing you’re out of hours, then it’s voluntary. You knew you didn’t have the hours, but you let yourself be convinced by someone. No, no, hold on. We always have a choice in life. Sometimes, the choice isn’t appealing, but there’s always a choice.”

We then noted that most companies comply with the law by simply stating that a driver is out of hours and can no longer drive.

“To be frank, some people might be surprised by what I’m going to say, but we have more issues with drivers than with companies,” Andre Tardif continued. “80% of the problems we have with ELDs involve drivers wanting to do more and changing their hours. Companies frequently call us, not wanting to fire the driver, but needing to know how to manage the situation. Many drivers log off at the client’s site, claiming they’re not working. But the law on driving and working hours is clear: if you are available to your employer and assigned tasks, you are considered to be working. We’re in an industry where we’re allowed to work 14 hours within a 16-hour window, and people still think that’s not enough!”

On the road: Stop fooling around, left lanes are for overtaking!

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sophie

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Sep 2, 2024

0

Stop fooling around, left lanes are for overtaking! Truck Safety Campaign for National Trucking Week: When you’re on the road, following a few simple rules can make all the difference in ensuring everyone’s safety. One of the most important is to avoid lingering in the left lane unless you’re actively overtaking. Staying in the left lane without reason not only clogs traffic but also creates dangerous situations. And if you find yourself near a truck, remember: if you can’t see the truck driver’s eyes in their mirrors, they can’t see you either. So, hit the gas or make room for those who can.

As our truck driver Marianne says, never hang out in a truck’s blind spot. Motorcycles and cars that loiter in these invisible zones are playing with fire. If you’re going to pass a truck, do it, but don’t stay beside it for no reason. Hanging out next to a truck exposes you to serious dangers, like a tire blowout or mechanical failure. As Christian puts it: A blowout at 100 km/h isn’t the kind of surprise you want.

Imagine you’re in a truck’s blind spot, and it suddenly needs to change lanes to avoid another driver entering the highway. In the end, you might be the one heading off the road. Many drivers struggle to adjust their speed when merging onto the highway, putting trucks and everyone around them in danger. Stay aware of these risks and keep your distance to avoid ending up in a situation where you’re no longer in control.

If a truck signals to merge into your lane while entering the highway, don’t speed up to close the gap. This isn’t just about courtesy—it’s about safety. The trucker has the same right as you to be on the road, and their need to maneuver safely must be respected. Be patient and pass when it’s safe to do so. Having a truck in front of you might not be ideal, but it’s a lot better than having one crash into you!

Finally, as Michael says, when you’re merging onto the highway, forget about fuel efficiency and step on it. If you hesitate or wait for trucks to change lanes for you, it’s as pointless as believing in Santa Claus. Trucks don’t change lanes easily, and many drivers won’t give them the space they need. Accelerate confidently, merge with the flow at the right speed, or slow down and merge behind. Being indecisive next to a truck is a gamble with your life and the lives of others.

Road safety is a shared responsibility, and respecting trucks is a crucial part of that. Understanding the realities of blind spots, braking distances, and the risks associated with trucks is essential for all drivers. Whether it’s avoiding the left lane unless overtaking, passing a truck swiftly and safely, or allowing a truck to merge onto the highway, every action counts. By staying vigilant and being courteous, you help make the road safer for everyone. Remember, the road is shared, and respecting trucks is also about respecting your own safety.

Better safe than sorry: stay alert around heavy trucks.

To all the truckers out there who travel our roads, delivering essential goods that keep our homes running and our economy strong: THANK YOU! Wishing you a great National Trucking Week.

ELDs have not reduced accidents as expected, and their effectiveness in improving road safety remains contested within the trucking industry.

Challenges Persist in Trucking

Read more on the Canadian Trucking Industry :

A fatal trucking accident claimed the life of an employee at a transportation company in Alsip, Illinois, on September 3rd. The man, who was assisting in directing a semi-truck into a loading dock, was crushed between the moving truck and a parked trailer.

Loading Dock Accidents: A Common Hazard in Trucking

Preventing Loading Dock Accidents in Trucking

Read more :

Looking for a trucking job? Upload your CV!

The truck parking shortage is a major concern in the road transport industry, impacting the daily operations and safety of truck drivers.

In June, the U.S. Congress announced a $200 million allocation in a legislative bill aimed at increasing safe parking spaces for commercial vehicles. This bill, HR 9028, which was introduced in July, provides grants to improve driver safety and increase the availability of truck parking facilities.

Read more :

In Texas, a fake Lowe’s truck was stopped at a checkpoint where officers discovered 17 illegal immigrants hidden in a secret compartment.

Read more :

What is Double Brokering?

Consequences for Businesses and Owner-Operators

Financial and Operational Impact

The Need for Strict Regulation

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This week, in honor of National Trucking Week, Irving is showing its appreciation to all truck drivers by offering a little extra on the road: free coffee and sandwiches!

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Andre Tardif from TEC Transport addressed this question, stating:

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Better safe than sorry: stay alert around heavy trucks.

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