Author: Marcela De Vivo

How To Prepare For Summer As A Trucker

Posted on June 18, 2019 by - expresstrucktax, Form 2290, Form 2290 2019, heat exhaustion, road hazards, Summer 2019, trucking industry

Those who have already chosen ExpressTruckTax to file their Form 2290 2019 are finding themselves with a lot of time on their hands for summer 2019. ExpressTruckTax saves truckers money and time with a solution ranked higher than all others in the trucking industry.

Filing your Form 2290 for 2019 is a big task, but it doesn’t have to be. ExpressTruckTax is adamant about giving clients the best possible experience. This is why it is called the leading Form 2290 solution and for the 2019-20 season, it’s no different. The process for filing your Form 2290 2019 has gotten quicker compared to past years.

In the trucking industry more time on your hands can mean more time with family or more time on the road. If you choose to spend that extra time on the road there are a few things you should be concerned about.

Check The Fuel For Your Body

Heat exhaustion can go hand in hand with dehydration. There are two forms of heat exhaustion that can take place when the temperature begins to rise, water depletion and salt depletion. Water depletion symptoms can be weakness and headaches.

Watch out for any of the signs that relate to heat exhaustion and be aware of changes in your body and functions.

Food High in Water Content

  • Cucumbers 
  • Celery
  • Zucchini
  • Cauliflower
  • Watermelon
  • Strawberries
  • Yogurt
  • Spinach

Tips and Tricks

  • Remove tight-fitting clothing
  • Take a cool shower
  • Get out of the sun

Check The Fuel For Your Vehicle

The engine cooling system is important, especially in sweltering temperatures. Your body can be affected by heat exhaustion, what makes you think your rig can’t?! Before beginning your trip make sure your system has both enough antifreeze and water.

Checking on the coolant of your vehicle is important in making sure your vehicle isn’t overheating. Coolant that is too hot can lead to engine failure and even a fire.

Slow It Down And Take A Break

Your vehicle is more vulnerable to overheating when you are traveling at high speeds. There is extra stress on both the tires and the engine being applied.

  • Drive slow and remember to take frequent breaks to let the system cool down.
  • Tire blowouts are more common in hot weather. Air pressure also increases with temperature. Allowing the tires to cool off every few hours or ideally every 100 miles reduce the risk of not only blowouts but fire as well.

Enjoy The Summer

Truckers can get pretty overwhelmed in the summer because of the time they’re missing away from family on top of their workload increasing. One way truck drivers can enjoy their summer is by getting ahead on their Form 2290 2019. If you haven’t already you can file now and have your Form 2290 2019 submitted to the IRS the very day they begin accepting Forms.
We hope these tips make your Sumer 2019 one to remember. Stay safe, stay hydrated and stay ready for anything. 

What You Need To Know About The 2019 HVUT Due Date

Posted on June 13, 2019 by - 2019 Form 2290, 2019 HVUT, expresstrucktax, ExpressTruckTax giveaway, Form 2290, HVUT, HVUT due date, IRS form 2290

The IRS Form 2290 for Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes (HVUT) must be filed annually by August 31st. This year, however, the HVUT due date is technically September 3rd.

Although there is a shift in the 2019 HVUT due date, this isn’t a call for procrastination.

Why September 3rd?

As mentioned August 31st is normally the HVUT due date, but this year that date falls on a Saturday and the following business day is on Labor Day.

File Your 2019 Form 2290 Now and Pay Later

We are encouraging all of our clients to file their 2019 Form 2290 as early as today and beat the rush. If procrastination is on your mind just think of how many other truckers are thinking the same thing.

You could get your 2019 Form 2290 handled today and not worry about paying 2019 HVUT until later.

By later we mean before August 31st.

2019 HVUT Due Date: 
Tuesday, September 3rd, 2019

Don’t Wait Until the HVUT Due Date

We know that technically 5 is greater than 0 and pressing snooze again is better than hearing a 5 o’clock wake up call. However, what if that 0 meant 0 penalties versus 5 and pressing snooze one more time could cost you your job?
There is a long list of benefits for filing your 2019 Form 2290 with ExpressTruckTax, but our favorite is that you could win free stuff. That’s right we are having an ExpressTruckTax giveaway. This year any ExpressTruckTax client who files before June 30th can win a FREE BlueParrott Bluetooth Headset and a whole lot more. This ExpressTruckTax giveaway might be our favorite yet.

Other Ways To File

ExpressTruckTax’s sister company, ExpressTruckTax Plus (ExpressTruckTax Plus) is now offering phone filing. You can now get for 2019 Form 2290 filed over the phone in just minutes by their well-trained support staff.

Possible HVUT Penalties

We know that time gets away from us all and by setting aside a few minutes of your day you could dodge huge penalties with the click of a button.

The IRS may impose penalties for several different reasons regarding HVUT Form 2290. You may be penalized for failing to file your return or to pay taxes owed by the 2019 Form 2290 due date. HVUT penalties may also be applied for filing false or fraudulent returns. These penalties are in addition to interest accrued on late payments.

The Ultimate Father’s Day 2019 Gift Guide for Trucking Fathers

Posted on June 11, 2019 by - 2019 Form 2290, dash cam, expresstrucktax, Father's Day 2019, Father's Day 2020, gifts for truckers, tire pressure monitoring system

Happy Father’s Day 2019!

Father’s Day 2019 is right around the corner! We are making sure that you are prepared by giving you the ultimate Father’s Day gift guide for trucking fathers. Finding Father’s Day gifts for truckers can be difficult, but here you will find gifts with prices ranging from $5 and up, so we are confident that something will be within your budget. Check out the coolest gifts we found for cool trucking dads. Father’s Day 2019 just got a little bit more manageable.

Dash Cam

There is a lot of buzz on the pros and cons of a dash cam, but if the dad you’re celebrating hasn’t stopped raving about his friend’s dash cam, odds are he is heavy on the pro side. There are some obvious pros to a dash cam that are changing the game for truckers. A dash cam can improve driving skills, are great trip documentation, and help with theft prevention. For Father’s Day 2019 we are dedicated to finding you the perfect gifts. If you’re still skeptical check out other blogs about what is the top-rated dash cam and why.

Steering Wheel Desk

9 times out of 10 every trucking dad has had to eat in his lap or bare down on the steering wheel in order to write something down. This unique and thoughtful gift will make any truckers life a lot easier when he is living his life on the road. It can be used for holding a laptop/tablet, eating, or writing. Your trucker will be glad you thought of him and all his laundry with ketchup stains.

Unique Shift Knob

All truckers are into customizing their rig and what better way to help your trucker create their dream rig than by providing something totally unique. Companies like Raney’s offer the most unique trucking accessories, sure to make any trucker stand out. A unique shift knob will have your trucker feeling like a boss.

Tire Pressure Monitor

Tire pressure safety and maintenance are extremely important for truckers who are constantly on the road. A tire pressure monitoring system notifies drivers when the pressure is low in a tire or when it is going flat. Purchasing one for your trucker for Father’s Day 2019 will show just how much you care about him making it back home. For a trucker, without a tire pressure monitoring system this gift will be one that keeps on giving.

Fun T-Shirts With a Catchy Slogan

Truckers can never have too many t-shirts. With the constant need to go, go, go truckers often find themselves wearing the same outfit repeatedly. Give the trucker in your life a new favorite/lucky shirt to wear and admire. Shirts like the one we are giving away for free this year in our swag bag’s are just the thing to get your 2019 Father of the Year making it one of our favorites on this list of gifts for truckers.

File His 2019 Form 2290 

One thing all truckers have in common is that they are always on the move. Truckers also have a lot to manage when it comes to their rigs and home lives. That is why for Father’s Day 2019 filing his 2019 Form 2290 would be a great way to say Happy Father’s Day! This year when you file the 2019 Form 2290, with ExpressTruckTax, before July 1st you are automatically entered to win a BlueParrott Bluetooth headset and more! Click below to get started filing.

Gloves

Most truckers do a lot with their hands. Some may even mention that a trucker without a callus or two may not be a trucker at all. A pair of heavy-duty, weatherproof gloves will make all the difference to a trucker whose hands endure rigorous days.

Entertainment Subscription

Paying for an entertainment subscription may be the best last-minute gift you can get someone. Instead of waiting to have something customized, or shipped to your house an entertainment subscription is ready instantly. Whether the man you’re honoring this year is into music, podcasts, movies, or motivational books you can never go wrong with paying for one or more of his favorite entertainment outlets.

Tell a Trucking Dad “Thank You”!

Enjoy this father’s day with the ones you love and if you know a trucker, who is a trucker remember to thank him for sacrificing time with his family so that you can spend time with yours. If you have already gotten your trucking dad something for Father’s Day 2019, no worries these gifts for truckers will be great for Father’s Day 2020. From a high-tech dash cam to an inexpensive t-shirt, ExpressTruckTax is excited to help you put a smile on your favorite trucker’s face. If you get your trucker a gift from this list be sure to tag us on Facebook. We want to see the smile it puts on his face!

How To Survive The 2019 CVSA Inspection Blitz

Posted on June 4, 2019 by - 2019 CVSA Roadcheck, 2019 Form 2290 filing, 72 hour dot inspection 2019, CVSA inspection blitz, CVSA Roadcheck 2019, E-file form 2290, expresstrucktax, ExpressTruckTax Plus

For 72-hours the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) will be performing their annual road check. The 2019 CVSA Inspection Blitz will be taking place June 4-6 throughout North America, with steering and suspension systems being the primary focus. CVSA president, Jay Thompson says “steering and suspension are safety-critical systems for any commercial motor vehicle”.

Since the beginning of the CVSA International Roadcheck, it is recorded that an average of 17 trucks and buses are inspected, each minute in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Inspectors will be performing a 37-step procedure. During this inspection will include checking the following:

 

  • Brake systems
  • Cargo securement
  • Coupling devices*
  • Driveline/driveshaft
  • Driver’s seat
  • Exhaust systems*
  • Frames*
  • Fuel systems
  • Lighting devices*
  • Steering mechanisms*
  • Suspensions*
  • Tires*
  • Van/ open-top trailer bodies
  • Rims/hubs
  • Windshield wipers

*Find tips on this topic that can save you from being in violation, below

Just last year the 2018 CVSA Roadcheck placed 21.6% of vehicles inspected out of service (OOS). You can avoid being in this number by following our Express CVSA Roadcheck Guide.

Now that you know what will be inspected here is how you can ace it with flying colors:

Express CVSA Roadcheck Guide

Steering And Suspension Systems

With this being the main focus of this years check it is important that you make sure our steering lash is within the proper lash distance. Also, check for any damages and loose parts in your suspension.

Fuel And Exhaust Systems

Be aware of leaks, improper mounting, and excess carbon around seams and clamps.

Coupling Devices

Check the strength of any chains, wires, and ropes you use

Lighting Devices

Look for discoloration, improper mounting, non-functioning parts, and block visibility in all devices.

Frames

Check for corrosion fatigue on all frames, missing, loose, or cracked cross-members.

Tires

Make sure all tires are properly inflated, free of bulges, cuts and excessive tread wear.

The CVSA International Roadcheck is the largest inspection blitz. Last year there were over 67,000 inspections performed. Most of the inspections are level I inspections. A level I inspection consists of an examination of the motor carrier’s and driver’s credentials, record of duty status, mechanical condition of the vehicle, any hazardous materials or dangerous goods present during the inspection.

It is important to have your vehicle up to par for the inspection blitz, but it is also important to make sure that you are also within code. Driver’s operating without proper credentials, in violation of hours of services (HOS), or in possession of alcohol or narcotics may be placed out of service.

Compliance Advice

The best advice for truckers during the CVSA inspection is to remain calm.
Inspections can take time and the quicker you comply, the quicker the process will go.

These inspections are not designed to trip anyone up but are in place to regulate highway safety. In a press release issued by CVSA, Chief Thompson states that “The inspections performed during International Roadcheck are the same inspections that are conducted the day before International Roadcheck states and the day after it concludes, as well as any other day of the year.”
There isn’t anything new that will be a surprise for driver’s, so being in compliance shouldn’t be rare.

Next Steps To Take

Just as you have proactively prepared for this year’s road check, you can now do the same for the 2019 Form 2290 filing season.  ExpressTruckTax is happy to announce the kickoff of Form 2290 pre-filing. This opportunity is offered for both our loyal customers and new customers interested in choosing the Form 2290 market leader to handle their 2290 needs. Pre-filing not only opens the door for clients to save money but gives them the chance to win a FREE BlueParrott Bluetooth headset and more.
If you are short on time this 2019 Form 2290 filing season, you should try our sister product, ExpressTruckTax Plus. ExpressTruckTax Plus offers clients the ability to file over the phone and avoid the hassle of paper this season. Call 803.386.0320 and get started now.

Fun Facts About the Industry You Love

Posted on May 23, 2019 by - American Trucking Association, commercial vehicles, expresstrucktax, Florida Truck Drivers, Iron Knight by Volvo, Red Giant, Semi Truck, Trucking fun facts

If you’re in the trucking industry, know someone who is, or just enjoy learning new facts.

We have you covered. Impress your non-trucking friends with all you know about your industry, or if your spouse is a trucker surprise them by teaching them something new. Whatever your motive is there is a truck industry fun fact that you can use.

The world’s longest semi truck is the Red Giant.

The Red Giant is 93 feet and has been traveling the roadways for almost 40 years.

Semi trucks need about 40% more time than cars need, to stop.

Rear end collisions and under ride incidents are usually the result of truckers not having enough time to stop.

The fastest industry truck is the Iron Knight by Volvo.

The Iron Knight has set records with its 500 meters run in 13.710 seconds.

Around 70% of all goods in the U.S. are delivered by semi trucks.

The largest commodities transported are agricultural and building materials.

The United States has nearly 3.5 million truck drivers.

Professional truck driving is a popular profession, despite its requirements of tailoring the lives of those professionals completely.

Professional truck drivers across America drive more than 400 billion miles per year.

According to American Trucking Associations (ATA), it is estimated that the trucking industry hauls more than 10 billion tons of freight annually.

The engines of semi-trucks are typically 6 times larger than car engines.

Truck engines are also designed to go 1,000,000 miles.

There is an average of 500,000 truck accidents every year.

Sixty-eight percent of all fatal truck accidents happened not in cities, but in rural regions.

Commercial trucks consume annually about 50 billion gallons of diesel fuel and gasoline.

With commercial trucks they typically all have diesel engines and they can reach 40% efficiency or more, making it much easier to move and not exude more fuel.

There are about 15.5 million commercial trucks in the U.S.

If they all lined up bumper to bumper, they would reach right to the moon. Of those operating semi trucks 1/3 of them are registered in California, Florida, and Texas.

Dash Cameras: Are They Helpful or Harmful?

Posted on May 21, 2019 by - artificial intelligence, best dash cam, CDL training, dash cam, Distracted driving, expresstrucktax, freight, information technology, pros and cons, tech, truck dash cam

Over the last few years dashboard cameras (dash cams) have become the must-have accessory for road voyagers. Next, to artificial intelligence, this new device has some hefty pros and cons. If you’re considering getting a dash cam for your next long-haul we have made a list of things for you to think about. Before you press record or invest in a dashcam we want you to make sure it’s the right thing for your truck.

Pros

There are some obvious pros to dash cams that are changing the game for truckers and one of those would be that it prevents staged accidents. Often times passenger vehicles blame large trucks for accidents that just never happened. It’s easy to play the blame game when there are no witnesses or proof. Statistics say that of the car-truck crashes approximately 80 percent of them were at the fault of passenger vehicles. This number may be increased as more dash cams are installed. Dash cams can save you from a rise in insurance and keep you from being blamed for a staged accident.

Other Pros of Dashcams Include the Following:

Improve Driving Skills

CDL instructors and company freight trainers are beginning to use dashcams to train new drivers and help prevent common mistakes. Dash cams are becoming a new method of learning and are creating a culture of safety on the road. Some dash cams can even store information technology that may assist in the training process. CDL training is slowly improving with the help of gadgets like dash cameras.

Document Your Trip

Being away from family on long-hauls can be extremely tough, but once you come home watching the footage from the dashcam will give you a chance to bond with loved ones.

Prevents Theft

Cargo theft can cost you thousands, but with the use of a dash cam, you can capture the culprits and possibly retrieve the stolen cargo.

Cons

The cons of dash cams are a little lighter than the pros, but there are a few things that should be considered.

Driving Distraction

Dash cams can easily be a distraction. Technology has a mind of its own and while you’re driving something may happen and you feel the urge to fiddle. The combination of fiddling with one hand and using the other to operate a 55,000-pound truck may not end the best way.

Rule Breaking

There are some states where recording without consent is illegal. You may be arrested, charged, or even fined, so making sure you are aware of the laws of each state line you cross will save you from facing some heavy consequences.

The technology that is dash cameras can come in handy and can also lead to tragedy. Knowing the ends and outs of the specific camera you purchase is the most beneficial way to ensure it is right for you and the long-hauls you’ll be making. Hopefully, these basic pros and cons will give you an idea of what to expect from all trucker’s new favorite gadget and help you in finding the best dash cam for your truck.

Get The Office Scoop From The Real Experts of Form 2290

Posted on May 14, 2019 by - 2290 customer, 2290 renewal period, E-File Truck Taxes, expresstrucktax, Expresstrucktax.com, Form 2290, Form 2290 2019, Form 2290 Experts, Form 2290 Support, renewal season

The Real Experts of Form 2290 have no problem giving you the inside scoop of what takes place in the office. They also have no problem telling you about their REAL lives. Meet the team that is making sure you and thousands of others are getting top of the line support.

Scroll down to see what the Real EXperts are up to this season!

AMBER

Amber loves Disney. Some may even say she is a fanatic, but around the office we call it passion. That same passion Amber has when it comes to all things Disney is what she expresses when assisting our loyal customers, year after year. This is what makes Amber one of our EXpert vets.
 

ANDREW

When Andrew isn’t weirdly spending time convincing new team members he can lick his own elbow,  he is convincing truckers to “just e-file it”. What makes Andrew an EXpert is his commitment to making e-filing your 2290 a lot easier than this unique, but yet oddly-impressive, party trick of his. 😝

ARIEL

At night, Ariel is a wizard costume designer, but her powers don’t stop there. She is our in-house oracle that foresees your future Google search and is the reason you are seeing our social media ads after telling your spouse you need to file your 2290…

Shhh.. She’s listening.

BRYAN

The 2290 renewal period is a beast, and “Trucker B.”, as he is notoriously known as, expects this year to be the best one yet! As a Form 2290 vet, “Trucker B.” is ready to conquer the beast without breaking a sweat. 😅
That is what we call, skill!

ELENA

Even though Elena is a blue belt in Tae Kwon Do and can break a wooden board on a fly, her true talent is remembering specifics about our clients. She is excited to chat with our longtime clients, who she refers to as a family.

HANNAH

Hannah’s colorful vocabulary isn’t the only way she chooses to EXpress herself. Her eclectic taste in music will have her reciting Biggie lyrics one moment and serenading to the likes of Fleetwood Mac the next. She is just as excited to experience the hype of the 2290 season as she was when she heard Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” for the first time.

LEAH

Since the age of 8, Leah has been dominating thousands of dirt tracks all by herself! 💪

This year Leah is throwing on a jersey, (well an ExpressTruckTax shirt), and joining a team of EXperts to tackle thousands of Form 2290’s!

MEREDITH

When Meredith isn’t enthusiastically keeping truckers up to date on how to save time and money, she is keeping her coffee cup full to the rim. What makes Meredith an EXpert is her commitment to helping truckers with tons on their plate.

MISSAEL

Missael is a Carolinian, by way of Mexico, and with true southern spirit is determined to show some of the vets why he deserves a spot amongst the elites. This may be his first season, but he is geared up for what lies ahead.

RYAN

Like any world traveler, Ryan knows it all and has seen it all, this goes for Form 2290 as well. Ryan is thrilled to partner with a team of like-minded individuals to handle what is thrown ExpressTruckTax’s way. The busiest and craziest time of the year is no big deal to our office globetrotter.

TAYLOR

Taylor is a self-taught DIY carpenter from the University of Pinterest. When she isn’t building her next masterpiece, she is building you the most convenient online experience. From floral backdrops to Form 2290 blog post, her hands can create them both.   

Do You Need To File Form 2290?

Posted on May 7, 2019 by - 2019 Form 2290, 2290 online, 2290 tax, Claims, EIN, expresstrucktax, Form 2290, Form 2290 instructions, Form 2290 Online, Form 8849, Gross Weight, HVUT 2019, irs 2290, IRS form 2290, Refunds, stamped Schedule 1

If you’re new to trucking, the numbers used for necessary forms may be a bit overwhelming. There’s the 2290s, 8849s, 4868s, 1099s, and 123s. Okay.. we might be exaggerating with the 123s, but you get the gist, it’s a lot of forms and a lot of numbers to remember. We won’t bore you and got through each form 1 by 1, but we will tell you about the two most relevant ones for this filing period.

What is Form 2290?

The form that you have probably heard the most about, as of late, is Form 2290. What is Form 2290, and how does it relate to you, if at all?!

Form 2290 is used to figure and pay the tax due on highway motor vehicles used. Your next question is probably does it even apply to you, and the answer is it might. All vehicles with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more than travel by highway is required to file a Form 2290.

After paying taxes you will be given a Stamped Schedule 1 that serves as proof of payment from the IRS. This document is important, as it is needed in order to register your commercial vehicle.

Do You Need to File Form 8849?

There are exemptions and claim suspensions that apply to some vehicles meeting certain requirements. The requirements are as follows:

  • The vehicle used 5,000 highway miles or less during the period.
  • The vehicle is an agricultural vehicle and used 7,500 miles or less during the period.
  • The Vehicle was stolen during the period
  • The vehicle was destroyed during the period
  • The vehicle was sold during the period

The above list leads us to the importance of Form 8849. If any of the above is true about a vehicle you own/owned then you must first file a Form 2290, pay the correct amount of Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) and then complete the Form 8849.

Claims and Refunds

In order to claim credits or refunds for vehicles stolen, destroyed, sold, or only used for 5,000 miles or less and 7,500 miles or less for agricultural vehicles, the Form 8849 is required. The

things you’ll need to file a Form 8849 are your name, address, details on the vehicle you are seeking a claim/refund for and your Employee Identification Number (EIN). Be sure to double check that the EIN you are using is consistent with what the IRS has on file.

*If an EIN is needed you are able to apply for one online with the IRS.

File With ExpressTruckTax

The great thing about ExpressTruckTax is that it makes all of your Form 2290 filing simpler. It even gives you a chance to auto-generate a Form 8849 if you are in need of one for the current filing period.

All You Need To know About Diesel

Posted on April 18, 2019 by - Diesel Additives, Diesel Engine, Diesel Fuel, Diesel versus Gasoline, Environmental Protection Agency, expresstrucktax, Fuel Economy, Fuel Efficiency, IFTA reporting, Semi-Truck Fuel Use

First quarter reporting is due April 30th and we want you to be prepared. Here are some tips to help with that.

  • Research non-taxable and exempt jurisdictions
  • Use IFTA calculator
  • Have important documents put away
  • File on time

If you should be filing your IFTA Report in the next week or so then 10 out of 10 you probably use diesel fuel. Diesel produces more energy than gas, making it more efficient. This is the reason semi-trucks run on diesel. Semi-trucks carry heavy loads and ultimately need more energy to drive further on long hauls. A diesel engine can operate for about 12,000 to 30,000 hours before a maintenance check is needed. Here are some diesel facts that every trucker may be a wonder. A few of which will save you a great bit of time and money. We’ve created a list of things all truckers should know about the fuel that keeps your rig’s engine going.

Why Is Diesel So Expensive?

The first of the probing questions you may have about diesel fuel is ‘why is it so expensive?’. Since 2004 diesel has been higher in price, on a dollar per gallon basis. Part of this reason is that the demand for diesel fuel and other distillate fuel oils is high. The biggest cause of differentiation in prices comes from federal excise tax for on-highway diesel fuel of 24.3 cents per gallon, 6 cents per gallon higher than the federal excise tax on gasoline.

Is There A Dirty Truth?

Diesel isn’t as dirty as you think. As a matter of fact, it has become more environmentally friendly.

The environmental protection agency (EPA) has found a few ways to reduce sulfur levels in diesel fuel, making it better for the environment. Diesel engines use to be known for producing harsh emissions, like soot, air toxins, and other harmful pollutants. Prior to 2006 diesel fuel contained more than 5,000 parts per million (PPM), now it is a regulation that diesel fuel can now produce more than 15 PPM.

What!? I Can’t Be Overweight!

The weight of diesel fuel is roughly 7 Ibs. Per gallon, and varies somewhat from the truck to truck. This is important to make a mental note of since the weight of fuel is calculated when scaling a truck.

Often times truckers will be surprised when they are ticketed for being overweight at the scale, knowing the weight of their rig and cargo combined doesn’t exceed the limit. Doing a bit of mental math will save

you time and money when you approach a scale. It is also a good idea to know where the scales are on your route to avoid fueling, right before you are required to be weighed.

Should I Add An Additive?

Additives are a must. The main use of additives for truckers is to help diesel not crystallize during winter. It is hard to make deliveries when a vehicle’s fuel has stopped flowing.

Being on the go is your job, so it is normal that you experience changes in climate, however being prepared and thinking ahead is required. Traveling from Nevada to Illinois can be a culture shock on anyone, and your engine is no different, so make sure you have an additive with you on the road if you plan on going too much colder states.

Other benefits of additives:

  • Cleans the injection system
  • Environmentally friendly
  • Saves money
  • Increases power

What Massive Collision Is Haunting The US Senate and House?

Posted on April 16, 2019 by - ATA, department of transportation, expresstrucktax, National Transportation Safety Board, OOIDA, Override Crash, Side Underride Guards, STOP Underrides Act, Todd Spencer, Underguards

Since 2017 companion bipartisan bills regarding the use of under-ride guards for road safety have been introduced. In March 2019 the idea was reintroduced and quickly dismissed by ATA and OOIDA. ATA stated that ‘the government should focus more on crash avoidance technologies and
strategies than expensive and unproven collision mitigation equipment.”

The U.S Senate and House have proposed these bills in remembrance of the thousands of victims of under-ride crashes and at the recommendation of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

In a recent press release announcing the bill, Representative Mark DeSaulnie (D-CA) stated that at least 300 victims are killed each year from under-ride crashes.

As of now, trailer rear guards (DOT bumpers) are required by law, but the bill’s sponsors say that the current standards are outdated. In rebuttal to this claim OOIDA President, Todd Spencer noted ‘we agree that the underride guards on the back of trailers could be improved, but the proposals as written go too far in broadly, retroactively requiring them on all trucks and trailers. His final statement was that trucking is a diverse industry and attaching side under-ride guards is not a simple task to require them to be attached on all equipment.

The indifference over the topic between the House and Senate versus trucking advocates could essentially go on and on, however, it is okay to assume that everyone wants the same thing which is safer roads. There is no trucker who would want to be a part of a tragic under-ride crash and there is no just-lawmaker who would feel content with having the opportunity to do something and remain silent and out of the conversation.

A Cause With A Name

The Stop Underrides Act, S. 2219, formally known as the Roya, AnnaLeah, and Mary Comprehensive Underride Protection Act of 2017 (RAMCUP Act of 2017), was created in memory of 3 lives lost due to underride crashes. The 3 victims mothers, Marianne Karth, and Lois Durso originally drafted the bill in hopes to prevent under-ride crashes everywhere.

Lois Durso, mother of 26-year old Roya, who lost her life in 2004 recently told reporters, “it is not the crash that kills, it’s the underride. If you can prevent the under-ride, there’s a chance the vehicle occupants will survive.”

The Opposition

Although companion bills have been drafted since 2017, the study to extend underride protection has been going on since 1969 by the Department of Transportation. That is roughly 15,000 deaths that could have been prevented. The U.S Senate and House do not have to rely on the ATA or the OOIDA to make side under-ride guards a requirement, but there are other methods that can help in preventing under-ride crashes.

According to Marianne Karth opposition has come from the trucking industry since 1977 by both manufacturers and haulers. These two parties back their opposition with wanting to see the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provide automobiles with capabilities to prevent cars from crashing into trucks.

Karth, as well as other side under-ride guard advocates, commend 4 major trailer manufacturers for their progress to install guards, and also nods the individuals and representatives from the trucking industry involved in her Under-ride Roundtable.

Although those select manufacturers are praised for making progress, Karth has mentioned several times on her blog, dedicated to her two daughters, AnnaLeah and Mary, that she will not give up the fight to seek further action.

Saving someone else from experiencing what both Durso and Karth are going through is the overall goal. Contrary to what ATA and OOIDA believe the requirements these two grieving mothers and lawmakers are hoping to put into place is not designed to cost those in the industry more money.

The requirement is in hopes that lives will be saved and tragic under-rides will cease. To find out more about the tragedies that have sparked this bill, or see how you can help visit http://annaleahmary.com or https://stopunderrides.org.