The recognition took place during ATA’s 2026 Safety, Security & Human Resources National Conference & Exhibition. The winners were recognized at ATA’s 2026 Safety, Security & Human Resources National Conference & Exhibition Awards Banquet sponsored by Tenstreet.

The focus wasn’t just on policies or paperwork. The spotlight was on real-world performance, fleets logging millions of miles, drivers maintaining strong safety records, and organizations building habits that reduce risk on the road and in the yard.

Chris Spear, ATA president and CEO, said, “Safety and security in trucking are at the core of everything we do. They are what keep operations running smoothly and, even more important, protect every driver on the road. The professionals in this space play a critical role in the industry’s success. For many, it becomes a long-term commitment to continuously improve standards and prevent risk. At the end of the day, their work goes beyond compliance. They are actively helping to save lives every time a truck travels our roadways.”

Fleets Recognized for Mileage-Based Safety

Awards were handed out based on miles traveled, highlighting carriers that maintained strong safety performance at different operating scales:

• Over 100 million miles: A. Duie Pyle Inc.
• Between 25 and 100 million miles: Red Classic
• Under 25 million miles: Alaska West Express

These categories reflect how safety performance is measured across fleets of different sizes, not just the largest operations.

Individual and Association Honors

The event also recognized standout performance beyond fleet operations.

• 2025 National Driver of the Year: Don Carpenter of Old Dominion Freight Lines
• 2025 Excellence in Safety: Tennessee Trucking Association

Jacob Pierce, executive director of the council, said, “We’re thrilled to honor this year’s recipients. Each plays a key role in building a safer, more resilient culture throughout our industry. From motor carriers to state association leaders and drivers on the road, their commitment is vital to promoting safety, and we deeply appreciate their hard work.”

Why It Matters on the Road

Awards like these point to something bigger than a single event. They reflect how safety shows up day to day, in maintenance checks, decision-making behind the wheel, and how companies handle risk before it turns into a problem.

Recognition programs also set a benchmark. Fleets and drivers can see what strong performance looks like and where the bar is being set across the industry.

The post ATA Safety Council Highlights Fleets and Drivers Setting the Standard appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Why Freight Shifts Inside Dry Vans

Constant road forces like braking, acceleration, cornering, and vibrations push pallets forward, sideways, or against doors, even in well-loaded trailers. FMCSA data shows improper securement contributes to over 20,000 cargo-related crashes yearly. The fully enclosed design blocks any view of this movement, so assume every load presses the rear doors until proven otherwise. This mindset prevents the thousands of annual incidents where drivers get hit by tumbling freight.

Safe Door Opening Steps

Park on level ground away from traffic, set your parking brake, and hit hazard lights first to secure your space. Stand completely to the side of the doors, never behind them, and release latches one at a time, listening for scraping or feeling resistance from leaning cargo.

• Position beside the door to stay clear of the swing path if pallets spill out.
• Crack one latch slowly, pause to check pressure, then proceed to the next.
• For tight doors, create a small gap for a visual inspection and call dock help to stabilize tipping loads.
• Note high-risk freight like tall stacks or LTL mixes on your paperwork and request extra straps at pickup.

These steps stop door surprises cold and safeguard both you and the shipment.

Smart In-Trailer Securement Tips

Evenly distribute weight low and centered to hit legal axle limits and maintain stability, filling gaps with bars, straps, or airbags. FMCSA requires 50% of the cargo weight to be secured against forward movement. Double-block partial loads near doors to block rearward slides, and flag shipper issues like loose wrapping before signing off. Proper bracing cuts damage claims by up to 30%, per industry reports.

Stretching And Body Mechanics Before Tasks

Strains and sprains account for 30% of driver injuries during dolly cranking, tandem sliding, and door handling, per BLS trucking stats. Warm up first with shoulder rolls, neck turns, marching in place, leg swings, and torso rotations to loosen muscles after long drives.

• Crank dollies with feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, body close, using legs and alternating hands to spare your back and shoulders.
• Slide tandems with a stable stance, neutral spine, and aligned pulls, no twisting, to protect knees and core.
• Swing heavy doors by stepping close, gripping firmly with both hands if needed, and pivoting feet with the motion.

The right form makes hard work sustainable for more miles.

Parking Area Walkaround Checklist

Slips, trips, and falls cause over 25% of driver claims, often from unseen lot hazards. Scan the full area before trailer work.

• Check for potholes, cracks, gravel, or uneven spots that catch feet during steps back or gear pulls.
• Spot ice, snow, oil, or fuel slicks; test lightly and wear slip-resistant boots.
• Verify lighting or use a flashlight in dark trailer gaps for a clear ground view.
• Clear chocks, pallet scraps, wrap, or debris that moves sideways.
• Ensure rear and sides stay open from people, trucks, or equipment.

This 60-second habit drops fall risks sharply.

Lock In These Habits for Your Career

Mastering door caution, securement basics, body mechanics, and lot checks turns daily risks into non-events. Ready for your next dry van opportunity? Search “dry van truck driver jobs” or “dry van companies near me” on Truckdriversus.com to find the perfect role where safety pros like you thrive.

The post Smart Cargo Loading and Unloading Guide for Dry Van Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

For owner operators, small fleets, and safety departments, this means immediate action to avoid violations and potential out-of-service orders.

FMCSA Confirms Removal of 9 ELDs

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has officially placed nine devices on its Revoked Devices list. According to the agency, the affected companies failed to meet minimum technical standards outlined in federal regulations under Title 49 CFR Appendix A to Subpart B of Part 395.

FMCSA Administrator Derek Barrs made the agency’s position clear.

“If an ELD isn’t meeting federal requirements, it’s taken out of service — plain and simple,” said Derek Barrs, FMCSA administrator. “We’ll keep making clear, fair decisions that put safety first and support everyone who shares America’s roadways.”

When a device is revoked, it is no longer considered compliant for federal hours of service recordkeeping.

List of Revoked ELD Devices

The following devices have been removed from the FMCSA Registered Devices list:

• Global Telecommunication Services Inc.
  Device Name: GTS ELD
  Model Number: 213W01
  ELD Identifier: GTS18A
• UTRUCKIN INC
  Device Name: UTRUCKIN
  Model Number: PT30
  ELD Identifier: UTRUCK
• ELD365
  Device Name: ELD365 ELOG
  Model Number: ELD365 (f/k/a ELOG365)
  ELD Identifier: ELD365
• IRONMAN ELD
  Device Name: IRONMAN ELD
  Model Number: IRON300
  ELD Identifier: IRM881
• HOST ELD LLC (f/k/a FACTOR ELD)
  Device Name: FACTOR ELD
  Model Number: FACTORELD1
  ELD Identifier: FRELD1
• Aireld Technologies
  Device Name: AirELD
  Model Number: Android & Xirgo 6300 Series
  ELD Identifier: ARELD1
• Aireld Technologies
  Device Name: Air ELD
  Model Number: iOS & Xirgo 6300 Series
  ELD Identifier: ARELD2
• Aireld Technologies
  Device Name: AirELD
  Model Number: Android & PT30
  ELD Identifier: ARELD3
• Aireld Technologies
  Device Name: AirELD
  Model Number: iOS & PT30
  ELD Identifier: ARELD4

Drivers and carriers currently using any of these devices must transition to a compliant solution within the timeline provided by FMCSA.

What Carriers Must Do Now

Motor carriers have up to 60 days from the date of removal to replace the revoked ELDs with compliant devices listed on the FMCSA Registered Devices list. The agency has outlined specific steps.

Carriers must:

• Discontinue using the revoked ELDs
• Revert to paper logs or logging software to record required hours of service data
• Replace revoked devices with compliant ELDs before April 14

Until April 14, enforcement guidance instructs safety officials not to cite drivers using revoked devices under 49 CFR 395.8(a)(1) for no record of duty status or 395.22(a) for failing to use a registered ELD. Instead, officers should request paper logs, logging software records, or use the ELD display as a backup method to review hours of service data.

Beginning April 14, drivers still operating with one of the revoked devices may be cited under 49 CFR 395.8(a)(1) and placed out of service under Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance criteria.

Why This Matters for Drivers and Fleets

For owner operators, a revoked ELD can quickly turn into lost time and revenue if not addressed. An out-of-service order tied to hours of service documentation affects delivery schedules, CSA scores, and carrier reputation.

For safety directors and compliance managers, reviewing device status against the FMCSA Registered Devices list should now be part of routine internal audits. Devices can be reinstated if deficiencies are corrected, but FMCSA has strongly encouraged carriers to act immediately rather than wait for possible reinstatement.

If an ELD provider corrects all identified deficiencies, FMCSA will restore the device to the registered list and notify the industry.

In the meantime, drivers and fleet managers should verify their current ELD model and identifier against the official FMCSA database.

For complete guidance and the current list of compliant devices, visit the FMCSA ELD website.

Source: The Trucker

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A total of 18 truckload carriers were selected across six mileage-based divisions. The awards recognize fleets with the lowest accident frequency ratios per million miles, highlighting carriers that consistently demonstrate strong safety performance and operational discipline.

The annual competition is sponsored by Great West Casualty Co. and Arthur J. Gallagher.

What the Fleet Safety Awards Measure

TCA’s Fleet Safety Awards focus on measurable safety outcomes rather than subjective criteria. Carriers are evaluated based on accident frequency ratios calculated per million miles traveled. Winners are determined within mileage categories to ensure fair comparisons between fleets of different sizes.

“We’re proud to support TCA’s Fleet Safety Awards and the carriers recognized this year,” said Andy Engardio, transportation vertical leader at Arthur J. Gallagher.

“These companies are investing in their drivers, prioritizing safe operations and holding themselves accountable every day,” he continued. “We congratulate this year’s winners and appreciate TCA’s continued leadership in promoting safer roads for everyone.”

Path to the Grand Prizes

Each of the 18 division winners is now eligible to compete for one of two overall Fleet Safety grand prizes. One award will be presented to a carrier operating fewer than 25 million miles annually, while the second will recognize a carrier with more than 25 million miles.

The grand prize winners will be announced during Truckload 2026, TCA’s Annual Convention, scheduled for February 28 through March 3 at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.

All division winners and grand prize recipients will also be formally recognized at TCA’s 2026 Safety and Security Meeting, set for June 7 through June 9 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Sponsor Perspective on Safety Leadership

“Great West Casualty Company is proud to sponsor the TCA Fleet Safety Awards, which recognize motor carriers for their dedication to a safety mindset and a culture of risk control,” said Steve Ponder, senior vice president at Great West Casualty Company.

“These motor carriers truly stand out across the trucking industry,” he continued. “The awards honor those who promote safety through meaningful investments in technology and training, and Great West Casualty Company is honored to recognize their achievements.”

2025 Fleet Safety Award Division Winners

Division I less than 5 million miles

• First place CJ Logistics Transportation LLC, Des Plaines, Illinois
• Second place Spur Freight Services Inc., an AIT Worldwide Logistics company, Austin, Texas
• Third place Specialty Transport Inc., Knoxville, Tennessee

Division II 5 to 14.99 million miles

• First place B.R. Williams Trucking LLC, Eastaboga, Alabama
• Second place Clopay Transportation Co., Troy, Ohio
• Third place Transportes Olympic, Nuevo León, Mexico

Division III 15 to 24.99 million miles

• First place Christenson Transportation Inc., Strafford, Missouri
• Second place Chalk Mountain Services of Texas LLC, Fort Worth, Texas
• Third place Mill Creek Motor Freight, Ayr, Ontario, Canada

Division IV 25 to 49.99 million miles

• First place Triple Eight Transport Inc., Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada
• Second place 4Tracks Ltd., CentrePort, Manitoba, Canada
• Third place Johnson Feed Inc., Canton, South Dakota

Division V 50 to 99.99 million miles

• First place May Trucking Co., Salem, Oregon
• Second place Carter Express, Anderson, Indiana
• Third place PGT Trucking Inc., Aliquippa, Pennsylvania

Division VI 100 million miles or more

• First place NFI Industries, Camden, New Jersey
• Second place Bison Transport, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
• Third place Marten Transport Ltd., Mondovi, Wisconsin

Where to Learn More

Additional details about TCA’s Fleet Safety Awards program, including eligibility requirements and competition rules, are available at truckload.org/fleet-safety. Images from past Fleet Safety Awards presentations can also be viewed through TCA’s Flickr album.

Source: The Trucker

The post TCA Names 18 Carriers as Fleet Safety Award Division Winners in 50th Year of Program appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Vehicles passing Level I or Level V inspections without critical violations may earn a CVSA decal valid for three months.

During the 2024 International Roadcheck, tire issues and brake-related violations accounted for over 50% of all Out-of-Service (OOS) violations.

“According to CVSA, nearly one in four commercial vehicles inspected during last year’s event was placed out of service,” said TJ Thomas, director of marketing and customer solutions for Bendix. “With brake systems, tires and other aspects of vehicles, attention to detail, consistent training and regular maintenance can deliver real-world safety and compliance improvements.”

To help drivers, technicians, and fleets prepare for Roadcheck 2025, Bendix offers key insights and best practices.

The Vital Role of Brake Maintenance in Safety

Brake-related violations remained the leading cause of OOS orders in 2024. CVSA reported that defective service brakes accounted for 25% of vehicle violations, while additional brake system-related issues comprised another 18%.

“Brake systems are the backbone of any truck’s safety suite,” said Rick Conklin, director of wheel-end engineering at Bendix. “Not only do they bring vehicles to a stop, but they also enable advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), like full-stability control and collision mitigation, to function optimally. If brakes underperform, the entire safety architecture is compromised.”

To prioritize brake safety, Bendix recommends daily walkarounds and in-shop inspections.

During walkarounds, look out for:

• Damaged air chambers
• Misaligned slack adjusters
• Extended pushrods

Technicians should perform these shop inspections:

• Measure brake chamber stroke and check adjustments.
• Conduct brake applications above 80 psi to identify air leaks.
• Inspect friction components for cracks, wear, or contamination.
• Evaluate drums and rotors for heat spots or damage.

“Brake performance starts with the right friction components,” Conklin added. “Using OEM-specified parts and meeting Reduced Stopping Distance (RSD) standards ensures braking balance. Replacing brake pads or shoes in matched axle sets is critical to maintaining performance.”

Conklin also emphasized the advantages of air disc brakes, highlighting their ease of inspection, reduced risk of out-of-adjustment violations, and exceptional performance benefits.

Tire Maintenance Tips for Roadcheck Compliance

Tires are another primary focus for Roadcheck 2025, with inspections including tread depth, inflation levels, sidewall integrity, and repair quality checks. Proper tire health reduces the risk of roadside incidents and unnecessary costs.

Over 20% of vehicle violations during the 2024 Roadcheck were tire-related, with underinflation being a common cause of failures.

“Underinflated tires are more than a wear issue – they’re a potential safety liability, increasing the chance of sudden failure due to excessive heat buildup,” said Brian Screeton, manager of technical training and service at Bendix. “With today’s technology, there’s no reason not to monitor the pressure in real-time and catch problems before they turn into emergencies.”

Bendix suggests using tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), like SmarTire and Trailer-Link, which continuously monitor tire pressure and temperature inside the cab.

“TPMS solutions do more than alert you to inflation issues,” Screeton said. “They can identify brake drag, which causes dangerous pressure and heat buildup at the wheel end.”

Tire maintenance recommendations include:

• Checking tread depth to meet legal standards.
• Inspecting sidewalls for damage or embedded objects.
• Ensuring dual tires are properly matched and inflated.
• Conducting routine rotations and alignments.

Tractor Protection Systems (TPS): A Step Not to Overlook

Although not a specific focus category for 2025, Tractor Protection Systems (TPS) remain crucial for trailer safety during unexpected disconnections. Over 560 TPS violations were reported during the 2024 Roadcheck.

“A well-functioning TPS can mean the difference between a safe stop and a runaway trailer,” Screeton stated.

Screeton outlined a straightforward method for verifying TPS operation:

1. Start the engine and allow the air system to pressurize fully.
2. Shut off the engine and disconnect the glad hands from the trailer.
3. Push in the red trailer-supply valve on the dash.
4. When air vents from the trailer-supply glad hand, the red valve should pop out automatically.
5. Press the brake pedal to confirm no air escapes the service glad hand.

“If the sequence behaves unexpectedly, the TPS requires a closer inspection,” he explained.

Screeton warned that contamination, such as dirt in the glad hand connection, can damage downstream components like the trailer relay valve, leading to dragging or brake release issues.

“When uncoupling glad hands, always use dummy couplers to keep out debris and prevent bigger problems,” he advised.

Stay Roadcheck-Ready with Expert Practices

Roadcheck initiatives like these are critical for reinforcing safety measures across North America. With proper maintenance and proactive checks, fleets and drivers can ensure compliance while enhancing overall safety.

By following these guidelines, you’ll meet safety standards and reduce your operational risks significantly. Stay safe out there!

Source: The Trucker

The post Bendix Shares Expert Tips for Keeping Trucks and Drivers Roadcheck-Ready appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“We’re excited to have Lofta supporting the association,” said Megan Magensky, PMTA director of communications. “Their commitment to PMTA shows they are interested in promoting the trucking industry holistically. Their platform is focused on prioritizing driver health and safety, which aligns with PMTA’s mission.”

Prioritizing Driver Health with Lofta Direct

Lofta Direct, the company’s employer-focused solution, plays a key role in this partnership. This initiative demonstrates a joint commitment to supporting trucking professionals’ health, safety, and overall success. Sleep apnea is a significant concern in the trucking industry, affecting about 28% of commercial drivers, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. If untreated, the condition can lead to a fivefold increase in crash risk due to drowsy driving—making streamlined treatment a crucial step for driver safety and compliance.

Comprehensive At-Home Sleep Apnea Solutions

PMTA members now have access to Lofta Direct’s full spectrum of at-home sleep apnea care. The program enables drivers to receive fast and accurate diagnoses without the need for an overnight lab visit. Once diagnosed, ongoing CPAP therapy support is also provided, ensuring drivers remain compliant with federal health regulations, including medical card renewals for commercial drivers.

Lofta has developed a dedicated landing page exclusively for PMTA members, providing streamlined access to its resources. The collaboration also includes educational outreach in the form of email campaigns and health seminars, emphasizing the importance of sleep health to maintain safety on the road.

Learn More

For more details about Lofta Direct’s employer-focused sleep solutions, visit www.lofta.com/direct. To explore the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association’s efforts in supporting the trucking community, check out www.pmta.org.

Source: The Trucker

The post Lofta Teams Up with PMTA to Simplify Sleep Apnea Care for Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

This study is part of the TechCelerate Now program, a project funded by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The TechCelerate Now team comprises industry-leading organizations including ATRI, ATA’s Technology and Maintenance Council, and the OOIDA Foundation.

According to a statement from ATRI, the research aims to better understand the opportunities and challenges surrounding advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in the trucking industry. To achieve this, the research team is conducting a survey to gather insights from motor carriers. The survey focuses on identifying the use of advanced safety technologies and uncovering perspectives on several topics, such as truck driver acceptance of the systems, maintenance and repair challenges, and the safety benefits these technologies provide.

The survey, designed to take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete, is hosted on the newly launched TechCelerate Now website. The website also offers extensive details about the program and will soon feature the TechCelerate Now “Return on Investment” calculator. This tool will allow carriers to gain tailored insights into the cost-benefit analysis specific to their operations and fleet, ATRI stated.

To participate in the survey, visit the TechCelebrateNow website.

Source: Truckers News

Image: ATRI

The post ATRI Announces Research on Advanced Safety Systems in Trucking appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

1. Utilize IoT-Driven Security Solutions

The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) has ushered in significant advancements in security. Real-time monitoring tools provide unprecedented cargo visibility, with modern systems capable of remotely locking or unlocking seals and sending alerts if unauthorized access is detected. These innovations help prevent cargo theft as it happens, offering immediate intervention opportunities.

2. Strategically Plan Routes to Avoid High-Theft Zones

Route optimization tools are invaluable for developing travel paths that steer clear of areas notorious for cargo theft. While it might cost more to take longer routes or deploy additional vehicles, avoiding regions with a history of frequent thefts can prove to be more economical in the long run.

3. Choose Secure Parking Locations

A majority of cargo theft incidents occur in unsecured parking areas, especially when trucks are left unattended overnight. Opting for parking facilities equipped with security measures like surveillance and proper lighting significantly reduces the likelihood of theft.

4. Employ Real-Time Electronic Tracking

GPS and electronic tracking systems provide critical real-time data, alerting drivers and dispatchers to any unusual route deviations. Technologies like Electronic Tracking Control Systems (ETCS) can issue notifications if a truck surpasses set speed limits or if tampering with cargo is detected, enabling swift action.

5. Adopt Layered Security Measures

Implementing a dual-layer security system, such as biometric driver access combined with GPS-enabled cargo monitoring, can offer an additional line of defense against theft. Should one layer be compromised, the other can still trigger alerts and help limit potential losses.

With billions lost annually to cargo theft, it’s crucial for truck drivers to adopt comprehensive security measures. By integrating technology like IoT solutions, route optimization, secure parking options, and electronic tracking systems, you can mitigate theft risks and enhance operational safety and efficiency.

The post Protecting Your Cargo from Theft: Top Strategies for Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The IFDA honors top professionals in the foodservice distribution industry through its hall of fame, highlighting those who excel in their field.

“Our delivery drivers are the heartbeat of our company and exemplify the values of hard work, reliability and excellence,” said Jeff Williamson, senior vice president, Operations at PFG. “Their tireless service ensures we consistently meet the needs of our customers across North America, delivering essential goods safely and on time. Their induction into the IFDA’s Truck Driver Hall of Fame not only honors their personal achievements but also highlights the critical role our drivers play in PFG’s continued success.”

The following dedicated drivers from PFG have earned their spot in the 2024 Hall of Fame:

• Glenn Anderson, 25 years on the road

• Daryl Bedell, 44 years of dedication

• Mark Branco, 26 years of service

• Steven Davis, 26 years behind the wheel

• Robert Dewey, 29 years of commitment

• Jeffrey Fiscus, 26 years of excellence

• Dudley Flannagan, 49 years of dedication

• Mike Gales III, 32 years

• Richard Gassaway, 35 years

• Robert Heckman, 25 years

• John Holmes, 30 years

• David Howard, 28 years

• Ed Huttleston, 30 years

• James Lombardo, 36 years

• Randy McBride, 26 years

• Marvin McGuire, 30 years

• James Milton, 29 years

• Tommy Mitchell, 25 years

• Greg Nishinaka, 30 years

• Robert Pingeton, 31 years

• Edward Roberts, 26 years

• Elijah Robinson, 26 years

• Glenn Savoie, 35 years

• Mark Schoeberlein, 25 years

• Steve Shepard, 26 years

• Rufus Spires, 26 years

• Brian Voller, 26 years

• Robert Wessling, 34 years

To qualify for this honor, drivers must have a minimum of 25 years with an IFDA member company, maintaining a spotless record with no moving violations or chargeable accidents in the past five years.

“The professional drivers selected for the IFDA Hall of Fame represent the best of the best,” said Mark S. Allen, president and CEO of IFDA. “Hall of Fame induction permanently acknowledges the talents and hard work of these drivers, who are supporting our member companies as they safely and efficiently deliver food and supplies to professional kitchens nationwide.”

PFG ensures their drivers undergo comprehensive defensive driving training to promote safety-conscious driving and improve hazard awareness. This training minimizes the risk of collisions and reduces driver stress.

The awardees will be celebrated at a banquet during IFDA’s Solutions Conference from September 22-25 in Kansas City, MO.

Source: The Trucker

Image: Performance Food Group

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