“This pause allows us to ensure our team members have the right tools, training, and processes in place to safely assist professional drivers on the road,” said Kathleen Roseman, TA’s vice president of fleet sales, channel partner programs, and small fleets.

The company has not announced when the program will resume, and details on the exact reason for the suspension have not been shared. Roadside assistance on highways is affected, but services in parking lots, rest areas, and other off-road locations will continue.

This action comes after a tragic incident on October 23, when a TA service technician was killed while assisting a Freightliner on Interstate 80 in Frelinghuysen Township, New Jersey. Reports confirm he was a diesel technician for TravelCenters of America.

Roadside accidents remain a serious risk for truck drivers and service personnel. On average, 566 people die and more than 14,000 are injured each year in incidents involving disabled vehicles on highways. That risk is why move-over laws exist in all states, requiring drivers to slow down or move over when approaching stationary emergency vehicles.

Many states have expanded these protections in recent years to include all types of stopped vehicles, including commercial service and tow trucks. This year alone, California, Kansas, New Hampshire, and West Virginia updated their laws. Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Wisconsin are considering similar measures. In New Jersey, where the recent fatality occurred, the current law only protects emergency, highway maintenance, tow, and sanitation vehicles. Proposed legislation A4813 would extend protection to any stationary vehicle.

For truck drivers, the temporary pause at TravelCenters of America is a reminder to have backup plans for roadside support. Safety isn’t just about rules; it’s about protecting yourself, your rig, and those helping you when trouble strikes on the road.

Source: Land Line Media

The post TravelCenters of America Suspends Roadside Assistance for Safety Review appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Work Zone Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility

“Work zone safety is a shared responsibility, whether behind the wheel or working on the side of the road,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. He added, “We engineer our roads to be as safe as possible, but no amount of engineering can change driver behavior. 113 TDOT workers have been killed in work zones. Let’s work together to ensure everyone makes it home safely.”

As spring and summer kick off peak construction season, Tennessee’s highways will see crews performing major projects like interstate expansions, roadway repaving, and even essential tasks like litter collection. These work zones are necessary to maintain and improve roadways but come with increased risks for workers and drivers alike.

Last year, Tennessee reported 16 fatalities in work zone crashes. As of this year, there have already been 35 incidents where vehicles crashed into TDOT equipment, including HELP Trucks that assist stranded motorists.

TDOT’s Work Zone Safety Campaign

To combat these alarming statistics, TDOT has been running the “Work with Us—Move Over, Slow Down” safety campaign since 2017. This initiative reminds drivers across Tennessee about the importance of year-round vigilance in work zones. It encourages motorists to take the “Work with Us” pledge to commit to safer driving behavior.

Key messages will be shared on TDOT’s overhead Dynamic Message Signs, which are visible in major cities, including Memphis, Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville. Orange lighting will also illuminate prominent buildings and bridges throughout the state to symbolize the campaign. Additionally, “Work with Us” signs will be stationed near construction areas to further emphasize driver safety.

The Human Impact of Work Zone Incidents

Work zone safety is more than just numbers. Crashes can leave a lasting impact on families, workers, and communities. TDOT reports that 2024 there were 2,318 total crashes in work zones, including 563 that resulted in injuries. These sobering statistics highlight the urgent need for drivers to prioritize safety.

Unfortunately, risks aren’t limited to primary work zones. TDOT’s secondary work zones, where HELP Trucks and other first responders provide assistance, also face significant dangers. These vehicles are often struck while helping motorists, putting workers in harm’s way.

How You Can Help

TDOT urges drivers to take specific actions to protect both themselves and workers:

• Check traffic conditions before leaving: Use TDOT SmartWay to plan your route and avoid unnecessary delays.
• Put your phone away: Secure your device in a hands-free system to eliminate distractions.
• Follow Move Over laws: Slow down and change lanes when you see flashing lights or vehicles in work zones.

Join the Effort to Save Lives

With thousands of crashes and dozens of injuries each year, small actions like reducing speed and staying alert can make a significant difference. The Tennessee Department of Transportation is asking every driver to do their part to help ensure “We All Get Home.”

Source: The Trucker
Image Source: MSN

The post Tennessee DOT Highlights Importance of Work Zone Safety appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.