Interestingly, the survey also highlighted a generational divide in perceptions of safety. Younger drivers tend to feel less safe than their older counterparts, although most truckers do report feeling secure overall. Here’s a breakdown of how safe different age groups feel at truck stops:

• 59% of Gen Z (born 1997-2012) feel safe

• 78% of Millennials (born 1981-1996) feel safe

• 86% of Gen X (born 1965-1980) feel safe

• 84% of Boomers (born 1946-1964) feel safe

Willingness to Pay for Safety

Truck drivers are not just voicing concerns—they’re willing to invest in solutions. A full 80% of survey respondents said they would pay at least 5% more for services at truck stops they perceive as safe and clean. Remarkably, 40% reported that they’d be willing to spend up to 25% or more for these added assurances.

Safety Concerns for Women Truckers

The survey also shed light on safety concerns specific to women in the industry. Female drivers are reported to be twice as likely as male drivers to feel unsafe sleeping overnight at a truck stop. Over a quarter of women said they would feel “somewhat unsafe,” with an additional 24% feeling “very unsafe.”

This heightened concern impacts their choices on the road, as the data shows women are 12% more likely than men to choose a hotel over a poorly maintained or questionable truck stop.

Safety and cleanliness are clearly high priorities for truckers, with many willing to pay extra for peace of mind. These insights highlight the importance for truck stop operators and service providers to prioritize these aspects to cater to the needs of both men and women on the road.

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: FindItParts

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“ATRI’s RAC members serve a critical role in identifying and prioritizing the trucking industry’s top research needs,” said Rebecca Brewster, ATRI president. “We received over 160 applications from individuals interested in serving as RAC members. We congratulate all those appointed by the ATRI Board to serve in this important role and look forward to working with them.”

Each year, RAC members are responsible for setting research priorities that address critical issues impacting the trucking sector. Representing a wide range of stakeholders—including motor carriers, suppliers, drivers, shippers, law enforcement, academia, and government—the committee reflects the diverse nature of the industry.

Andy Owens, CEO of A&M Transport, has been named Chairman of the Research Advisory Committee for this term. The full list of 2025-2026 RAC members includes a remarkable lineup of professionals bringing their expertise to support ATRI’s mission.

Industry Leaders Appointed as 2025-2026 RAC Members

• Lindsay Bur, Director of Data Science and Economics, American Trucking Associations

• Robb McCaig, Senior Director of Spend and Analytics, Trimac

• Sheri Call, President and CEO, Washington Trucking Associations

• Steve McKeta, Director of Private Fleet Maintenance, Walmart Transportation

• Jeremy Carmichael, Vice President of Operations, Ruan Transportation Management Systems

• Carson Davidenko, Executive Advisor – Custom Critical Operations, FedEx Freight

• Vallie Dugas, Vice President and General Counsel, Melton Truck Lines

• George Gerth, Vice President of Safety, Carter Express Inc.

• Frank Granieri, COO of Supply Chain Solutions, A. Duie Pyle

• Ben Greenberg, President and CEO, North Carolina Trucking Association

• Josh Hankins, Senior Vice President of Safety, Security, and Driver Personnel, J.B. Hunt Transport Inc.

• Robert Howard, President and COO, Dohrn Transfer Company

• Rich Johnson, Vice President of Business Readiness, Werner Enterprises

• Aravind Kailas, Advanced Technology Policy Director, Volvo Group North America

• Andrew King, Assistant Director of Operations, OOIDA Foundation

• Tim Kordula, Vice President of Risk Management, Skinner Transfer Corporation

• Anne-Marie Forbes Lynn, Director of Business Development and Marketing, U.S. Legal Services

• Mark Manera, Founder and CEO, Offshift

• Chad Marsilio, COO, PGT Trucking Inc.

• Robert Meyer, Vice President of Corporate Transportation, UPS

• Graig Moran, President and Co-Owner, Brown Dog Carriers

• Brad Nelson, President, FreedomTrucks of America

• Randy Obermeyer, Vice President of Safety and Maintenance, Online Transport

• Misti Olszewski, Vice President of Enterprise Safety, Covenant Logistics

• Ted Perryman, Managing Attorney, Roberts Perryman P.C.

• Emily Plummer, America’s Road Team Captain, Prime Inc.

• Todd Reiser, Senior Vice President, Lockton Companies

• Joseph Romero, Captain, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Bureau, New Mexico State Police

• Robyn Smith, Director of Driver Relations, May Trucking Company

• Glissel Soliz, Senior Director of Transportation Operations and 3PL, Coca-Cola North America

• Sam Waltzer, Director of SmartWay and Supply Chain Programs, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

• Kyle Weaver, Assistant General Counsel, K.L. Breeden & Sons

• Adam Whitney, Vice President of Cummins On-Highway Sales in Canada, Cummins Inc.

• Jeffrey Wojtowicz, Senior Transportation Engineer/Operations Management, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

• Lynette Woodie, Manager of Loss Prevention and Administration, ArcBest Corporation

These members bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise that will help ATRI address emerging challenges and opportunities in the trucking industry. With a clear focus on innovation and collaboration, this RAC cohort is poised to help shape the industry’s future.

Source: The Trucker

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A Tribute to Truckers Nationwide

TrueBlue and Centerline Drivers have dedicated this month to acknowledging the crucial work performed by truck drivers across the country. “Our drivers are the heartbeat of our organization—delivering excellence mile after mile,” said Jill Quinn, president of Centerline Drivers. “Their dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment keep our business moving forward and our customers smiling. We don’t just appreciate our drivers – through Respect the Drive, we celebrate them this month and every day for the incredible work they do. They truly are the unsung heroes of the economy.”

Addressing Industry Challenges

The creation of “Respect the Drive Month” by Centerline comes at a critical time for the trucking industry, which is currently experiencing a shortage of about 60,000 drivers, as reported by the American Trucking Association. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the challenges highlighted in Centerline’s State of Trucking 2024 survey, which found that nearly 25% of drivers feel underappreciated—a leading factor driving them to consider leaving the profession.

Introducing the Respect the Drive Customer Awards

This year, Centerline has also launched the Respect the Drive Customer Awards to commend companies that are champions of the trucking industry. The awards honor those exhibiting leadership in safety, inclusivity, and fostering a positive environment for drivers. Categories include:

• Open Road Award: Celebrates efforts to enhance inclusivity within the industry.

• Driver Culture Award: Honors companies that cultivate a supportive atmosphere for drivers.

• Safety Award: Recognizes organizations committed to continued driver safety and training.

• Respect the Drive Award: The pinnacle accolade, covering all facets of safety, inclusivity, and culture.

Continuous Recognition and Dedication

“Centerline is dedicated to celebrating the hard work and achievements of its drivers year-round,” the company stated. “Through programs like Respect the Drive, the company continues to recognize drivers’ dedication, loyalty and the vital role they play in supporting its customers.”

Source: The Trucker

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Partnering with Women In Motion, Trucker Path conducted interviews with female truck drivers to identify critical safety features they seek at truck stops. The study then evaluated how many truck stops incorporate these essential amenities.

Key Findings from Trucker Path Survey

Lighting emerged as the paramount safety feature for female truck drivers at truck stops. The survey pinpointed seven crucial amenities:

• Illuminated parking spaces
• Well-lit bathroom access
• Brightly lit lounge areas
• 24/7 accessible, well-lit shower facilities
• 24/7 accessible, well-lit laundry services
• Around-the-clock security presence
• Continuous maintenance services available

Trucker Path’s network includes 320 truck stops offering at least one of these amenities. Notably, 95.6% of these stops provide lighted parking, while over half offer illuminated bathroom access. However, only a select few have round-the-clock maintenance or illuminated laundry services.

Truck Stops Providing Comprehensive Safety Amenities

Among those surveyed, 14 truck stops stand out by offering all seven sought-after amenities:

• Shoemaker’s Truck Station – Lincoln, NE
• Big Apple Travel Centers – Joplin, MO
• Walburg Travel Center – Georgetown, TX
• American Truck Plaza – Milton, PA
• ACME Truck Stop – Orlando, FL
• Dukes Travel Plaza (TA Express) – Mount Vernon, TX
• Sumner Truck Stop & Travel Plaza – Sumner, WA
• Circle C Travel Plaza – Walterboro, SC
• Texas Travel Center – Salado, TX
• Mankato Travel Center – Mankato, MN
• Compass Travel Center – Demotte, IN
• Ports to Plains Truck Plaza – Lamar, CO
• King Travel Plaza – Kingsland, GA
• Garden Inn Truck Plaza – Forest City, MO

This survey sheds light on the ongoing challenges female truck drivers encounter and the trucking industry’s initiatives to attract and retain more women drivers.

In June, the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) released a study titled “Identifying and Mitigating the Challenges Faced by Women Truck Drivers.” The research identifies six primary hurdles for women in trucking and proposes methods for addressing these issues. These challenges include:

• Negative perceptions of the industry
• Difficulties completing driver training
• Unsatisfactory company culture within motor carriers
• Challenges adapting to the over-the-road lifestyle
• Limited access to parking and restrooms
• Prevalence of gender-based harassment and discrimination

“While the visibility of women in trucking advertisements has increased and the percentage of women drivers has been rising slowly over the past few decades, significant challenges persist that deter women from considering or continuing a career in trucking,” says ATRI in their study.

Additionally, ATRI’s recent findings reveal that female truck drivers face longer detention times than their male counterparts. A detention time study indicated that over a third of female drivers experienced short waits at stops compared to 27% for men. Furthermore, detention times of two hours or more constituted 15% of stops for women, versus just 10% for men.

Source: Land Line

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The North Dakota Highway Patrol presents this honor annually in appreciation of a driver’s commitment to safety and their support of the highway patrol.

Mondor has been working in the trucking industry for 33 years and began his career working for Johnson Farms. He eventually joined Altendorf Express, where he has been working for the past 17 years. Mondor has logged more than 4.5 million accident-free miles throughout the entirety of his career.

The NDMCA’ also presented the Trooper of the Year award at the convention. This recognition is given to express the trucking industry’s appreciation for the highway patrol, whom they depend on for their safety and livelihood.

This year’s Trooper of the Year was awarded to Myles Sunby, a Grand Forks-based North Dakota Highway Patrol motor carrier operations trooper. He is also a dedicated participant in the Special Olympics- North Dakota Truck Convoy and is a member of the Central Valley School and Immanual Lutheran Church Cemetery Grounds Crew.

Source: Truckers News

Image: Truckers News

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The Origins of Safety Concerns at Truck Stops

Parking and safety issues at truck stops primarily stem from outdated infrastructure. Many truck stops were constructed when trucks were smaller, and parking accommodations haven’t kept pace with the size of modern vehicles. Additionally, these locations often serve as practice grounds for student drivers, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Though these risks might seem avoidable, it’s essential to consider the financial repercussions. Insurance coverage might not fully offset repair costs if your vehicle is damaged, especially when deductibles and downtime are factored in. Even minor mishaps by unskilled drivers can result in costly damages, easily reaching $5,000 or more. Personal safety is another crucial aspect, as truck stops can become targets for nighttime thefts.

Tips for Safeguarding Your Rig

To reduce the chances of damage while your truck is parked, consider these tips:

• Select Parking Spots Carefully: Choose spots as far from the fuel island as possible to minimize traffic exposure. Arriving earlier in the evening can often secure a safer parking space.

• Opt for Strategic Spots: Parking next to fixed objects like poles can help protect at least one side of your truck. Avoid parking near trucks that are awkwardly positioned or likely to move soon. If feasible, back into a space to facilitate easier departures and minimize the risk of being hit.

To protect your cargo, utilize sturdy padlocks and secure door handles with seat belts. Investing in dash cams can also be beneficial, providing critical evidence if incidents occur.

Tips for your Safety

Your personal safety is just as important as protecting your truck. Research potential truck stops in advance to find those equipped with security features like surveillance cameras. Despite these measures, thefts can still happen, particularly if you’re transporting valuable cargo.

For female drivers, additional precautionary steps may be necessary, though many truck stops are increasingly accommodating. At night, always lock your doors and draw the blinds to ensure privacy. Company drivers should notify their carriers of their overnight location for security documentation.

Safety is a top priority for both drivers and carriers. By adhering to these tips you can better prepare yourself for risky truck stop parking and ensure the safety of both you and your truck.

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The Michigan State Police have embarked on an initiative to enhance road safety by delivering geotargeted alerts to truck drivers via their electronic logging devices (ELDs). This innovative approach aims to keep truckers informed about potential road hazards, inclement weather conditions, and other critical updates, playing a crucial role in accident prevention.

Patrick Morris, a motor carrier inspector with the Michigan State Police’s commercial vehicle enforcement division, emphasized the importance of keeping professional drivers well-informed to ensure safer roads for everyone. “Putting messages out is a good thing. There’s no way to lose on that,” Morris stated. He continued, “We want to let people know about road safety situations. Our goal is to never write a ticket.”

A Strategic Initiative for High-Traffic Periods

Launched on August 28, this campaign aligned with the Labor Day holiday traffic surge, providing an opportunity to evaluate the system’s effectiveness in preventing accidents amidst increased vehicular traffic.

“Safer commercial drivers make for safer roadways for all roadway users,” Morris elaborated. “Coupled with continued education and enforcement, digital messaging direct to commercial drivers is another way our motor carrier officers are working to increase traffic safety and reduce traffic crashes and injuries on Michigan roads.”

With federal mandates requiring interstate truckers to use ELDs, Michigan’s initiative utilizes Drivewyze Inc.’s Smart Roadways service to send alerts about road hazards and enforcement operations directly to truck drivers.

Enhancing Roadway Safety with Technology

The Michigan State Police can now geotarget up to 300 zones across the state, deploying alerts within a defined 20-mile radius or larger. These concise messages, limited to 25 characters, are displayed prominently on a truck driver’s dash-mounted ELD.

“The messages are deliberately short. They come across quickly. We don’t want to create a distraction for drivers,” explained Morris. The initiative represents a forward-thinking phase in leveraging technology to improve roadway safety across Michigan.

By sending emails to Drivewyze with specified zones, dates, and alert durations, police can dispatch messages instantly during emergencies or over set periods.

Future Applications and Funding

The current focus is on identifying high-crash corridors for messaging, hoping to encourage caution and behavioral adjustments, such as reducing speed, in these areas.

Morris also mentioned plans to use this tool in anticipation of high-traffic holidays or specific driving hazards that require heightened awareness. The state has committed to a one-year contract worth $85,000 with Drivewyze to fund this experimental initiative. At the end of this period, the police will assess its effectiveness based on driving behavior metrics before deciding on contract renewal.

Source: Transport Topics

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By the end of it, 45 trucks and 16 drivers were taken off the road for failing to meet safety standards. One trucking company even got hit with a violation that put them out of service altogether.

The main focus? Brakes. Inspectors made sure brake pads were in good shape and all the warning systems were working right. The Arizona Commercial Vehicle Safety Partnership, a team made up of state troopers and transportation officers, led the charge to make sure everything was up to code.

Source: Truckers News

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A Legacy of Safety and Excellence in Trucking

John Moeller began his career with Roehl Transport in 1979 and has since become a driving force in the company’s focus on safety. His consistent dedication to safe driving practices is a testament to Roehl Transport’s core values and commitment to the trucking industry’s highest standards.

“Our company is built upon our cornerstone value of safety, and John has lived that value with every mile he’s driven. Thank you, John, for your dedication to our industry, to our company, and for driving to protect others,” said CEO Rick Roehl.

John Moeller’s Record-Breaking 6 Million Mile Achievement

Moeller’s recent accomplishment of 6 million accident-free miles distinguishes him as the first driver in Roehl Transport’s history to reach this extraordinary milestone. His track record includes being the first driver to achieve 3 million, 4 million, and 5 million safe miles, earning him accolades such as the 2011 Truckload Carriers Association’s Company Driver of the Year.

Currently, Moeller drives for Roehl’s Curtainside National Fleet, continuing his legacy of safe and efficient driving. Before this role, he spent years as a flatbed driver, where he was known for expertly securing and tarping loads. In 2009, he made history by completing Roehl’s first delivery to Alaska, showcasing his versatility and expertise in the trucking industry.

Personal Life: Family and Community in Marshfield, Wisconsin

John Moeller’s life outside of trucking is rooted in family and community. He resides in Marshfield, Wisconsin, with his wife Debbie, to whom he has been married for over 40 years. The couple has three children and six grandchildren. Moeller’s commitment to his family mirrors his dedication to his profession, making him a role model for drivers at Roehl Transport.

“John moves into an elite class of drivers—having driven more than 6 million miles accident-free is a top-tier accomplishment,” stated John Spiros, Vice President of Safety and Claims Management at Roehl Transport.

Source: Truckers News

Image: Roehl Transport 

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What is the 34-Hour Reset?

The 34-hour reset, also known as the “restart provision,” is a rule set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that allows truck drivers to reset their weekly driving limit after taking at least 34 consecutive hours off-duty. This rule is designed to ensure that drivers get adequate rest before hitting the road again, thereby reducing the risk of fatigue-related accidents.

Why It Matters:

• Safety: Fatigue is a major cause of accidents in the trucking industry. The 34-hour reset ensures that drivers are well-rested and alert.
• Compliance: Adhering to the 34-hour reset helps you stay compliant with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, avoiding penalties and fines.
• Productivity: A proper reset can boost your productivity, making you more efficient and focused when you get back on the road.

Tips for Maximizing Your 34-Hour Reset

1. Plan Your Reset Location Wisely

   • Choose a truck stop or rest area that offers amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and good food options. The better the location, the more enjoyable your reset will be.
   • If possible, plan your reset at a location that offers some form of entertainment or relaxation, such as a nearby park or a movie theater. This can make the time off more refreshing.

2. Get Quality Sleep

   • Use this time to catch up on sleep. Make your sleep environment as comfortable as possible by blocking out noise and light.
   • Consider using sleep aids like white noise apps or earplugs if you’re in a noisy area.

3. Exercise to Stay Active

   • A 34-hour reset is a perfect opportunity to get some physical activity. Stretch your legs, go for a walk, or even hit a gym if there’s one nearby.
   • Exercise can help reduce stress and improve your overall mood, making it easier to get back on the road with a positive mindset.

4. Catch Up on Personal Tasks

   • Use this time to take care of personal tasks like laundry, catching up with family, or managing finances. Staying on top of these tasks can help reduce stress when you’re back on the road.
   • If you’re an owner-operator, this might also be a good time to handle administrative tasks like invoicing, tracking expenses, or planning future routes.

5. Indulge in a Hobby

   • Whether it’s reading, watching movies, or playing video games, doing something you enjoy can make the time fly by and help you relax.
   • Some drivers take this time to update their social media accounts, write a blog, or even work on creative projects.

6. Prepare for Your Next Haul

   • Use the last few hours of your reset to prepare for the road ahead. Check your route, review any weather conditions, and ensure your truck is in good condition.
   • Organize your cab and restock any supplies you’ll need for the journey.

The Benefits of a Well-Spent Reset

Maximizing your 34-hour reset isn’t just about compliance; it’s about taking care of yourself. A well-spent reset can leave you feeling rejuvenated, less stressed, and better prepared for the challenges of the road ahead. By investing in your downtime, you’re not only boosting your productivity but also enhancing your overall well-being, which is crucial for a long and successful career in trucking.

The 34-hour reset is more than just a legal requirement—it’s a valuable opportunity to recharge and prepare for the road ahead. By planning your reset wisely and using the time to take care of yourself, you can ensure that you return to the road refreshed, alert, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. Safe travels and remember: a well-rested driver is a safer, more efficient driver.

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