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On the Road : Testimonials from Trucking Industry Veterans

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On the Road : Testimonials from Trucking Industry Veterans | Recently, we posed a simple question on our Facebook page: “How many years of experience do you have in the trucking industry?” The sheer number of responses and the wealth of stories shared are nothing short of impressive, highlighting the profound expertise within our industry.

In the vast world of transportation, certain stories stand out for their longevity and unwavering dedication. Among the men and women who have been navigating the roads for decades, some have spent over sixty years behind the wheel, becoming living legends of the industry. These veterans have witnessed the evolution of the sector, adapting to technological advancements, overcoming economic challenges, and enduring the daily realities of life on the road.

Remarkably, there are also extraordinary women in this field who have made their mark with strength and determination. With decades of experience, they have not only logged thousands of miles but have also carved out their own success in an industry often perceived as male-dominated. Their resilience and passion for transportation serve as an inspiration to all.

What is striking in these narratives is the diversity of their journeys. Some began at a very young age, almost literally growing up behind the wheel, while others took to the road later in life, yet with an equally strong passion. For many, transportation is not just a job; it is a vocation, a way of life that has carried them through the years with unwavering loyalty.

These transport veterans, both men and women, are the custodians of a tradition of dedication and expertise that continues to impress us. Their experience is an invaluable treasure, reminding us that the journey taken is often as important as the destination. Whether it is the love of the open road, the daily challenges, or the passion for the profession, these iconic figures continue to drive with the same enthusiasm that motivated them on their first day.

As we celebrate National Trucking Week, we extend our deepest gratitude to all truckers, whether seasoned veterans or new recruits. Their work goes far beyond the mere transportation of goods; they are the lifeblood of our society, delivering the resources that sustain our lives. Every mile driven is a promise of continuity for our businesses, a gesture of unity between our communities, and a testament to their commitment to our collective well-being. They overcome daily challenges, ensuring that nothing is ever missing, wherever it may be needed. They embody a quiet strength that keeps our economy moving, with a dedication that commands our admiration. Thank you for keeping the heartbeat of our society strong, day and night, through all conditions.

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National Trucking Week: A Tribute to Truckers and the Trucking Industry

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sophie
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As we celebrate National Trucking Week, it is essential to highlight the critical role that truckers play as the backbone of our society.

As we celebrate National Trucking Week, it is essential to highlight the critical role that truckers play as the backbone of our society.

To those of you who travel thousands of kilometers, overcoming daily challenges with determination, you are the lifeblood of transportation. Every journey you undertake not only keeps our shelves stocked but also sustains the rhythm of our daily lives. Your long and demanding days are marked by a deep commitment that inspires respect and gratitude. Thank you for your diligence, passion, and skill in navigating our roads with confidence and safety.

Your role extends far beyond simply transporting goods. You are the guardians of the supply chain, ensuring that everything arrives safely at its destination. Without you, our lives would be far more complicated! We appreciate every moment you face the unexpected with professionalism and resilience. Your ability to maintain safety on our roads, regardless of the conditions, is a testament to your unwavering dedication.

Truck drivers are not the only ones propelling the road transport industry forward. Every stakeholder in trucking plays a vital role, each one an indispensable link in the chain that supports our economy. Whether it’s planners, logistics managers, mechanics, or anyone else working in this sector, every action matters. Your collective expertise and knowledge are the driving forces that keep transportation on track! Thanks to you, the craftsmen of road transport, goods move, businesses thrive, and communities are efficiently served. Thank you all for your hard work and ongoing commitment.

Finally, during this National Trucking Week, we want to express our deepest gratitude to our clients, partners, and subscribers. For over two decades, your trust, engagement, and loyalty have shaped Truck Stop Québec and Truck Stop Canada into leading media outlets. You are the driving force behind our success, and your continued support fuels the largest trucking community. Thank you for being an integral part of our story and pride!

Happy National Trucking Week to everyone!

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Preventing Obesity and Health Risks Among Truck Drivers

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sophie
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Health Column: Truck drivers are particularly vulnerable to the risks of overweight and obesity, which are direct consequences of the sedentary nature of their work. A study conducted in Alberta highlights alarming levels of cardiometabolic risk factors among Canadian truck drivers, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension. These risks are exacerbated by long hours of driving, limited opportunities for exercise, and restricted access to healthy food options on the road. The situation in the United States mirrors this, with nearly 70% of truck drivers being obese, compared to a national average of approximately 40%.

The implications of these conditions are serious and far-reaching. Obesity can lead to chronic diseases such as heart disease, strokes, and certain types of cancer. Moreover, the combination of a sedentary lifestyle and poor diet increases the risk of sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, which can reduce alertness while driving and heighten the risk of accidents.

To address these issues, it is crucial to promote healthier behaviors among truck drivers by encouraging regular physical activity and improving access to nutritious food options. Awareness initiatives and workplace wellness programs play a vital role in supporting truck drivers in preventing obesity-related complications. In this context, we spoke with Dr. Denis Boucher on Truck Stop Quebec radio, where he shared the inspiring story of a trucker who made a significant lifestyle change:

“When he made his plan, I provided him with his daily requirements for calories, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. The guy calculated everything. He bought his Tupperware containers and said, ‘My sandwich fits in here, my spaghetti fits in this one.’ He was set for the whole week. All his meals were planned in those Tupperware containers. He knew exactly what to eat, when to eat, and even his cashew nuts were scheduled to the minute,” explains Dr. Boucher.

“When he stopped at rest areas, he took out his resistance band, attached it to the door handle, did the basic exercises I had shown him, walked for fifteen minutes, then got back in his truck and hit the road. A year later, all this effort led him to lose 80 pounds. Wow!”

Truck drivers often say they don’t have the time, and it’s true that their schedules are demanding and sometimes stressful. But according to Dr. Boucher, it’s essential to choose health, to prioritize oneself and invest time in it. The trucker he spoke of made that choice: he implemented strategies that fit his routine, like using Tupperware to avoid recalculating his portions at every meal. This commitment to his health allowed him to transform his life and significantly improve his well-being.

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Impacts of Double Brokering on Transportation Companies

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sophie
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To effectively combat double brokering, transportation companies in Canada must adopt rigorous and proactive verification measures.

Double brokering is a fraudulent practice in the transportation industry where a broker accepts a load from a shipper and then re-brokers it to another broker or carrier without informing the shipper. This practice adds complexity and additional risks to the supply chain. While it is not considered illegal in Canada, it is strictly regulated in the United States.

Legality and Impact

Double brokering is generally deemed unethical. It can lead to significant legal and financial risks for the companies involved due to the lack of transparency and potential liability conflicts. According to the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA), this practice is widely recognized as problematic and detrimental to the industry.

Statistics and Repercussions

In 2023, a survey revealed that 85% of respondents, primarily brokers and carriers in Canada, were impacted by double brokering. The financial losses were substantial, with nearly 56% of companies experiencing losses up to $50,000 and 18% facing losses between $50,000 and $150,000. These figures highlight the significant financial impact on Canadian companies.

Reasons for Double Brokering

Double brokering is primarily driven by the desire for quick financial gain. Fraudsters exploit weaknesses in the supply chain to profit by pocketing the difference between what they charge the shipper and what they pay the final carrier. This practice is facilitated by the lack of rigorous checks on brokers’ licenses and insurance.

Consequences for Companies
The consequences of double brokering include:

Financial Risk: Legitimate carriers may not get paid, leading to financial losses.
Reputation Damage: Delays and cargo damages can harm a company’s reputation.
Legal Disputes: The increased complexity of the subcontracting chain makes it difficult to determine responsibilities, which can lead to costly legal disputes.

To effectively combat double brokering, transportation companies in Canada must adopt rigorous and proactive verification measures.

On the Road, Truckers’ Tips for Fighting Fatigue While Driving

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sophie
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All truckers has their own methods for fighting fatigue while driving, especially during long hours on the road. From the responses shared by our community, it’s clear that there are numerous strategies—some surprising, others more conventional—but all aimed at the same goal: staying awake and driving safely.

Rest

The most common piece of advice is straightforward: stop and sleep. Many drivers emphasize the importance of not fighting sleep. It’s better to take a break and have a short nap rather than risk an accident. Short naps of 15 to 30 minutes, often referred to as “power naps,” are seen as the best way to quickly recover without significantly delaying the journey. Additionally, getting a good night’s sleep and effectively managing daily stressors can naturally help prevent fatigue when it’s time to drive.

Nutrition

Managing your diet intelligently is crucial for staying awake behind the wheel. Light snacks like raw vegetables help maintain a stable energy level without causing drowsiness. Chewing sunflower seeds can also be helpful—not because of the salt, but because it provides a light distraction while supplying nutrients. Others recommend chewing gum. It’s advisable to avoid foods high in sugar and fat, as they can lead to energy spikes followed by crashes, which exacerbate drowsiness.

Music and Distractions

Music plays a vital role in keeping drivers focused. For some, a combination of AC/DC and a strong coffee does the trick. Others find that talk radio or humorous podcasts help break up the monotony of the road.

Unconventional Methods

Some drivers rely on less traditional methods. For instance, after exhausting the effects of energy drinks, some turn to extra-strong Halls lozenges, which, for reasons unknown, help them stay awake. Others suggest a shot of hot sauce for an instant wake-up call. And then there’s the more extreme method of plucking nose hairs, which one driver swears by as an effective way to stay alert!

Expert Insights

Incorporating a short walk or 10 to 15 minutes of physical activity during a break can be an excellent way to fight fatigue. This activity boosts blood circulation, bringing more oxygen to the brain and body, helping to restore energy and improve alertness. Research shows that even short periods of light exercise can significantly reduce drowsiness and promote better heart health, making it an effective strategy for staying alert and driving safely.

Conclusion

No matter the method used, it’s clear that sufficient and regular sleep remains the best way to avoid the dangers of fatigue while driving. As one driver put it: “Sleep is not something to compromise on; if I’m tired, I pull over.” Safety should always come first, and every driver should find the method that works best for them to stay alert on the road.

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Trucking Training Schools Receive $3.5M from FMCSA

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sophie
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Trucking Training Schools Receive $3.5M from FMCSA – In the United States, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recently allocated nearly $3.5 million to 27 colleges and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training programs. This grant is part of the Commercial Motor Vehicle Operator Safety Training (CMVOST) program and is designed to enhance roadway safety by providing additional training for current CDL holders while creating new career opportunities within the trucking industry.

According to U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, this funding is a component of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Trucking Action Plan, which aims to strengthen supply chains and support the workforce within the sector. The CMVOST program’s objectives include increasing the number of CDL holders who have received advanced safety training and integrating veterans, as well as individuals from rural and underserved communities, into the trucking industry.

The FMCSA emphasizes that this initiative seeks to improve road safety and facilitate entry and retention in the industry for commercial drivers. This funding is viewed as a strategic response to the growing demand for qualified drivers across the country.

Energy Efficiency Challenges for Trucking During Summer Heat Waves

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sophie
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Summer’s scorching heat poses significant challenges for energy efficiency in the trucking industry, mainly due to the increased idling time required to maintain cabin comfort. These prolonged idling periods lead to higher fuel consumption, which experts label as excessive, impacting both operational costs and environmental footprints by increasing greenhouse gas emissions.

Data from transportation management platforms like Samsara illustrate the substantial financial impact of heat waves. For instance, during a 2023 heat wave in the Pacific Northwest, trucking companies spent an additional 1$US million on fuel due to the increased idling, assuming a cost of $4 per gallon and 0.85 gallons of fuel used per hour of idling.

In the same region, trucking companies emitted 5.9 million extra pounds of carbon dioxide, while in the Northeast, they incurred an additional $4 million in fuel costs during a single week of a June 2024 heat wave. These companies also emitted 24.4 million extra pounds of greenhouse gases compared to normal levels.

To combat these challenges, advanced technological solutions enable fleet managers to monitor and reduce idling times, improving energy efficiency and minimizing fuel consumption during extreme heat. Additionally, practical strategies like using reflective paint on trucks and enhancing cabin insulation can further reduce the need for idling during hot weather. By adopting a comprehensive approach that combines technology and practical adaptations, the trucking industry can mitigate the impacts of heat waves, reduce operational costs, and minimize its carbon footprint.

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Female Truck Driver Assaulted on Île-aux-Tourtes Bridge in Quebec : Man in His Forties Arrested

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sophie
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A man in his forties was arrested by the Sûreté du Québec (SQ) following an accusation of assaulting a female truck driver on the Île-aux-Tourtes Bridge during rush hour. The altercation reportedly stemmed from a collision between the vehicles of the two parties involved. Tensions escalated when the man exited his vehicle to confront Stephanie Ross, a driver for SM Express, whose truck was positioned ahead of him.

A video shared on social media captures the tense moments in which Ms. Ross is seen lying on the ground after being violently struck. Witnesses at the scene reported that the man was particularly aggressive, hurling insults before delivering a blow that left Ms. Ross unconscious. Two nearby construction workers attempted to intervene to defuse the situation, but their efforts proved ineffective.

After regaining consciousness, Ms. Ross, who sustained multiple injuries including a concussion, tried to piece together the events. She recalls seeing the man approach her truck, shouting obscenities before she could fully grasp the situation. Although she attempted to deescalate the driver’s anger, the situation quickly spiraled out of control.

The man was released after his arrest with a promise to appear in court at a later date to face potential charges. This incident has deeply shocked the community, raising concerns about the safety of drivers, particularly truckers, in the face of aggressive behavior on the roads. The company employing the suspect has not yet issued an official statement in response to the situation.

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Is the Trucking Industry Facing Significant Inclusion Challenges?

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sophie
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The trucking industry is under scrutiny as concerns about inclusivity have sparked heated discussions, particularly on Truck Stop Québec’s Facebook page. The reactions have been numerous and diverse, ranging from personal testimonials to passionate debates.

Many truck drivers, both men and women, have pointed out that the trucking industry is far from being a model of inclusion. One subscriber noted that as long as derogatory terms continue to be used, progress will be difficult, highlighting the outdated attitudes that still linger in the field. The use of such terms demands constant vigilance from page administrators to moderate discussions and ensure respect. It’s clear that many struggle to distinguish between expressing an opinion, whether popular or not, and deliberately denigrating others.

Experiences of sexism and discrimination were shared by some participants. A female truck driver recounted how clients often overlook her presence, addressing her male colleague instead, despite her skills and professionalism. Some women in the industry believe that the U.S. transportation sector is more open and welcoming to women.

Others in the discussion took a more defensive stance, claiming that the trucking industry is inclusive as long as competence is evident. One driver argued that regardless of gender or sexual orientation, what matters is professional performance. “Can you drive a truck?” If the answer is yes, then, according to these individuals, that person belongs in the industry, and that’s what truly matters.

However, this view has been criticized, with some arguing that even though companies advocate for inclusion, the individual attitudes of some truckers can still pose a barrier. One subscriber explained that while trucking might appear welcoming on the surface, the daily reality can be very different for minorities.

An autistic female truck driver shared the challenges she faces, such as long working hours and the lack of accommodations for those with special needs. The case of Simon, a paraplegic truck driver, highlights the difficulties encountered despite the goodwill expressed by companies. Although qualified and motivated, opportunities remain scarce.

Foreign truck drivers face increasing difficulties. Often perceived negatively due to the issuance of Class 1 licenses without adequate training and because of cultural differences, they face prejudices that further complicate their integration and acceptance in the industry.

In summary, despite several relevant testimonials, the mere mention of the term “diversity” has triggered strong reactions, revealing a deep-seated frustration among some. The debate, which should have focused on the initial question, quickly shifted to attack inclusivity itself. This discussion, which now extends beyond the trucking industry, reflects a broader societal unease. Extremes and “woke” culture seem to have pushed the issue of inclusivity and diversity to a point where discussions become impossible, with everything perceived as a form of propaganda. In this polarized context, those who try to approach these issues with a balanced perspective often find themselves pushed towards an extreme, simply because they don’t fully adhere to one position or the other.

In light of this reality, it seems the trucking industry must continue to reflect and adapt to fully integrate each individual. The goal is to create an environment where everyone feels respected, allowing for full and meaningful contributions from all, without marginalizing those who are already part of the community.

The future of trucking rests on recognizing the skills and professionalism of each person, beyond differences. It’s about opening the door to those who wish to contribute positively and effectively to the road transport sector while respecting and honoring the legacy of the current truckers.

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Violent Road Rage Incident Highlights Growing Threat to Truck Drivers

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sophie
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Violent Road Rage Incident Highlights Growing Threat to Truckers – On Wednesday, a harrowing incident occurred on the Île-aux-Tourtes Bridge in Vaudreuil, Quebec. A witness reported that a truck allegedly blocked a lane or collided with another truck, sparking a heated confrontation between the two drivers. During the altercation, the female truck driver reportedly pushed the other driver, who then retaliated with a punch that left her unconscious.

The aggressive truck driver was eventually restrained by M. Gervais, who was also present at the scene: “I stepped in to separate the guy because he was still very aggressive towards the woman even after she was already on the ground. I was working on the nearby construction site and ensured that emergency services could access the scene quickly through our site. A woman came to assist the injured driver. She took a hard hit to the head. I hope it’s not too serious.” The victim was transported by ambulance, reportedly suffering from at least one fracture.

The Rise of Road Rage

Truck drivers, who are already accustomed to the challenges of the roads, now face an increasing threat: road rage, as tragically demonstrated by this violent encounter. According to a new study conducted by Nextbase Dash Cams, the world leader in dash cam technology, a staggering 79% of drivers in the United States have experienced road rage or aggressive driving. Even more concerning is that over a third (34%) of these drivers encounter such situations multiple times a month.

Ranked just behind distracted driving among the most significant dangers on the road, road rage is becoming an increasingly urgent issue. With the upcoming Labor Day weekend, when roads are expected to be more congested than usual, truck drivers will need to navigate through heavier traffic, which could exacerbate tensions and make driving even more hazardous.

The Emotional Toll of Road Rage

The Nextbase Dash Cams survey reveals that road rage triggers intense emotional reactions among drivers. Nearly half of the respondents (45%) reported feeling nervous, 44% angry, 34% terrified, and 26% furious when confronted with such aggression.

Essential Tips to Avoid Dangerous Altercations

Sergeant Chris Palaganas, a seasoned law enforcement officer, offers these five essential tips for truck drivers who may encounter an aggressive driver:

  1. Stay in Your Vehicle: Never leave your truck. The other driver’s mindset is unpredictable, and they could be armed or violent.
  2. Move to a Safe Location: If you feel threatened, drive to a well-lit and populated area, such as a police station or fire station, if possible.
  3. Be a Good Witness: Use a reliable dash cam to capture high-quality footage and provide verbal documentation to accurately record the situation.
  4. De-escalate the Situation: If approached by an aggressor, calmly indicate the presence of the dash cam without aggravating the situation.
  5. Prioritize Your Safety

Remember, your ultimate priority is to arrive safely at your destination. As road rage incidents continue to rise, truck drivers must increasingly rely on dependable safety technologies. Dash cams are not only valuable for capturing high-definition footage but also serve as critical safety tools that can make a real difference in ensuring your security on the road.

Picture : Stephane Brunet URGENCES VAUDREUIL-SOULANGES & BEAUHARNOIS-SALABERRY

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