According to MDOT, the remaining spring weight restrictions on all state trunkline highways ended at 7 a.m. Friday, bringing the state’s 2026 frost law season to a close.

The restrictions applied to state-maintained highways carrying interstate, U.S. highway, and Michigan route designations.

Seasonal Restrictions Help Protect Roads During Spring Thaw

Michigan applies seasonal weight restrictions each year during spring thaw periods when roadbeds become more vulnerable to damage caused by heavier axle loads.

During frost thaw cycles, moisture beneath pavement weakens roadway structures, making certain routes more susceptible to cracking, rutting, and long-term surface damage under commercial traffic.

The restrictions often affect route planning, freight weight distribution, delivery timing, and operating costs throughout late winter and spring operations.

With the state restrictions now removed, normal commercial weight movement can resume on Michigan trunkline highways heading into the summer freight season.

Some Local Limits May Still Remain in Place

Although state restrictions have ended, MDOT noted that county road commissions and local public works departments may still maintain their own seasonal weight limits depending on roadway conditions.

Local restrictions do not always follow the same timeline as state routes, meaning some municipal roads, secondary highways, and rural freight corridors could still carry posted limits in certain areas.

Anyone operating through local delivery zones, construction areas, or smaller municipal routes may still need to monitor posted signage tied to local restrictions.

Updated restriction information remains available through MDOT’s website and seasonal route maps. The state also offers email alert options tied to restriction updates and route condition changes throughout the year.

The end of Michigan’s frost law season is typically viewed across the freight industry as one of the clearer indicators that seasonal operations are shifting fully toward summer freight patterns.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information drivers can use.

Last updated: May 18, 2026

Source: Truckers News

The post Michigan Truck Weight Restrictions Have Now Ended for the 2026 Spring Season appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The 2026 initiative is scheduled for July 12 through July 18 and will involve law enforcement agencies throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico focusing on unsafe driving behavior involving both commercial vehicles and passenger traffic.

Drivers stopped during the campaign could receive warnings or citations depending on the violation observed by enforcement officers.

This Year’s Campaign Focuses on Reckless Driving

CVSA said reckless, careless, and dangerous driving behavior will be the primary focus during this year’s enforcement period.

The organization describes reckless driving as operating a vehicle with disregard for the safety of people or property. Careless driving generally refers to driving without proper attention or consideration for surrounding traffic conditions.

Enforcement personnel may target violations involving:

Speeding
Distracted driving
Following too closely
Unsafe lane changes
Fatigued driving
Impaired driving
Seat belt violations
Ignoring traffic signals

For truck drivers, the campaign often leads to heavier enforcement visibility along major freight routes, urban bottlenecks, construction zones, and interstate corridors carrying heavy summer traffic.

Passenger vehicle behavior around trucks also remains a major concern during these campaigns. Sudden merges, aggressive passing, distracted driving, and unsafe following distance continue to create problems for commercial drivers trying to maintain safe stopping space in dense traffic.

Summer Traffic Usually Creates More Pressure on Drivers

Operation Safe Driver Week arrives during one of the busiest travel stretches of the year. Vacation traffic, road construction, seasonal congestion, and tighter delivery schedules can all increase pressure behind the wheel during midsummer runs.

Many experienced truck drivers already adjust their driving habits during large enforcement campaigns by slowing down earlier in congestion, increasing following distance, and avoiding unnecessary lane changes around heavy traffic clusters.

The campaign is not limited strictly to ticketing activity. CVSA said education and public awareness also remain major parts of the initiative. The organization distributes roadway safety materials aimed at both commercial drivers and passenger vehicle traffic to encourage safer driving habits overall.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 36,640 people died in traffic crashes across the United States during 2025. CVSA said reducing unsafe driver behavior remains one of the most effective ways to improve roadway safety and lower crash totals.

For many truck drivers, Operation Safe Driver Week serves as another reminder that staying patient, leaving extra space, and avoiding rushed decisions usually matters far more than trying to gain a few extra minutes during a run.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information drivers can use.

Last updated: May 18, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post CVSA Safe Driving Enforcement Campaign Returns in July to Target Reckless Driving appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Experienced Flatbed Drivers Will Earn Up To $.67 CPM

Under the updated structure, experienced flatbed over-the-road drivers at Maverick will earn between $.64 and $.67 per mile, with projected first-year earnings ranging from $84,000 to $96,000. Student flatbed drivers will start at $.59 CPM under the new structure, with projected first-year earnings between $73,000 and $80,000.

The company also confirmed that flatbed over-the-road divisions will receive a $.04 per mile increase beginning May 31.

Dedicated Divisions Also Included In Pay Increase Rollout

In addition to flatbed over-the-road operations, Maverick said more than 10 dedicated flatbed and glass divisions will also receive updated pay rates as part of the increase rollout. The company did not release specific pay figures for each dedicated operation, but said the adjustments are tied to its broader effort to reward professional drivers across multiple divisions.

“We are truly excited to roll out this pay increase for our drivers, who are the heart of our operations and the key to our success,” said Brad Vaughn, Maverick’s vice president of recruiting.

Carrier Highlights Benefits And Retention Programs

Along with updated pay, Maverick highlighted several benefits and compensation programs tied to its driver packages. According to the company, drivers receive performance-based bonuses, paid pre-employment evaluation, flexible home time options, and benefits packages that include paid vacation, paid holidays, 401(k) matching, referral bonuses, legal plan options, virtual doctor visits, employee assistance programs, and driver recognition programs.

The carrier also pointed to modern equipment and internal career growth opportunities as part of its ongoing retention strategy.

Flatbed carriers across the industry continue facing competition for experienced operators, particularly in specialized freight sectors where securement requirements, weather exposure, and physical workload often create additional demands compared to standard dry van freight.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: May 15, 2026

Source: Heavy Duty Trucking

Image Source: Maverick Transportation

The post Maverick Raises Pay for Flatbed and Dedicated Truck Drivers Starting May 31 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Truckload Carriers Association recently named Lamar Buckwalter, a professional driver with Buckwalter Trucking LLC, a TCA Highway Angel, following the April 2 crash on Route 34 during high-wind conditions affecting commercial vehicles across the region.

Driver Saw Tanker Lose Control During Wind Advisory

Buckwalter was traveling eastbound around 2 a.m. when he saw a tanker truck several vehicle lengths ahead suddenly veer off course before overturning.

The crash sent sparks, debris, and dust into the roadway as the tanker rolled.

“I’ve always believed that God puts us in the right places at the right times. Tonight, he proved this once again,” said Buckwalter. “All I could hear was the driver screaming, ‘Get me out of here, I’m hauling hazmat!’”

After stopping safely, Buckwalter ran toward the overturned truck and made contact with the injured driver inside the cab.

According to TCA, the driver initially told Buckwalter he was trapped but not pinned before becoming unresponsive moments later.

Driver Pulled from Overturned Tanker

Buckwalter broke through the windshield and pulled the driver from the overturned truck while debris and leaking engine fluids surrounded the wreckage.

The driver regained consciousness after being removed from the cab. Because the tanker was carrying hazardous materials, both men moved farther away from the vehicle while another motorist contacted emergency responders.

Buckwalter remained with the injured driver, who suffered bruising and head injuries, until first responders arrived at the scene.

TCA said Buckwalter later accompanied the driver in the ambulance so he could contact family members and his employer, and then provided a statement to law enforcement investigators.

“The officer told me he was very impressed with how quickly everything happened,” said Buckwalter. “I just did what I hope anyone else would do in that situation.”

Highway Angel Recognition Highlights Actions At Crash Scene

The TCA Highway Angel program recognizes truck drivers for acts of courage, courtesy, and public service while working on the road.

The association said nearly 1,500 professional drivers have received Highway Angel recognition since the program launched in 1997.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: May 15, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: TCA, Truckers News, Lamar Buckwalter

The post TCA Honors Colorado Driver After HazMat Tanker Rescue Near Greeley appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Sowder also finished first in the flatbed division during the two-day competition held May 1 and 2 at the FedEx Freight facility in Tennessee.

Hosted by the Tennessee Trucking Association, the annual championships test drivers on written exams, pre-trip inspections, and driving skills designed around precision, safety, and vehicle control.

Several additional honors were handed out during the event, recognizing both competitors and volunteers involved with the championships.

Donnie Shelby of XPO Logistics received the rookie award, while The Martin-Brower Company earned the team trophy award.

The Inspector Challenge award went to Dallas Lange. Ed Hauhn of Martin-Brower received Driver of the Year honors, while Jack Hawkins of Thompson Machinery was recognized for volunteer contributions during the event.

Division winners included drivers representing multiple carriers and equipment classes across the competition field.

Division Winners from the 2026 Tennessee Championships

“We are proud of all of this year’s professional drivers who showcased their skills this past weekend,” the association said in a social media post. “Thank you, participants, volunteers, and sponsors, for another great event!”

Drivers advancing from state competitions will continue to the National Truck Driving & Step Van Driving Championships scheduled for Aug. 11 through 14 in Pittsburgh.

State truck driving championships remain one of the industry’s longest-running ways to recognize professional drivers for safety knowledge, vehicle handling skills, and consistency behind the wheel.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: May 14, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Tennessee Trucking Association

The post FedEx Freight Driver Takes Top Honor At Tennessee Truck Driving Championships appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Checkout Round Up Campaign Runs Through Late May

Between April 30 and May 21, purchases at participating Pilot, Flying J, and One9 Travel Center locations can be rounded up at checkout. Those contributions go toward stroke prevention and education programs supported by the American Heart Association.

Stroke Warning Signs Front and Center This Month

The campaign places a strong emphasis on recognizing symptoms early. Pilot and the American Heart Association are highlighting the B.E. F.A.S.T. method, which outlines key warning signs drivers and travelers should be aware of:

B – Balance Loss: Does the person appear unsteady?
E – Eye (vision) Changes: Is vision blurred or temporarily lost?
F – Face Drooping: Does one side of the face droop, or is it numb?
A – Arm Weakness: Is one arm weak or numb?
S – Speech Difficulty: Is speech slurred?
T – Time to call 911: If someone shows any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

Education and Screenings Included in the Initiative

Beyond the fundraising effort, Pilot is also providing stroke-related education, resources, and screenings to its team members. The same materials are available to the public through local American Heart Association offices.

Miles of Good Program Continues Health-Focused Efforts

The campaign builds on Pilot’s ongoing involvement in the American Heart Association’s Life is Why initiative through its Miles of Good program. This marks the second year the company has included a dedicated focus on American Stroke Month fundraising.

More details on the campaign and participating locations are available at pilotcompany.com.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: May 7, 2026

Source: Truckers News

The post Pilot Expands Stroke Awareness Effort with Nationwide Fundraising Campaign appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The platform supports more than 45,000 active accounts, so even small changes affect how quickly drivers and fleets move through compliance tasks.

What’s Different in the Updated System

The update does not change what drivers are required to do, but it does change how they move through the system. The redesign focuses on navigation, readability, and consistency across devices.

The new layout is easier to move through, cutting down the number of steps needed to complete common tasks like renewing plates or securing permits. The system is now fully responsive, meaning the layout stays consistent whether it is accessed from a phone or a desktop.

Readability has been improved with higher contrast and a clearer reading order, which makes a difference when trying to complete something quickly during a stop or between loads. Translation through browser tools is also more reliable, helping drivers and carriers who depend on it.

“This new, modern look and feel brings an improved user experience for all CCD customers,” said Gian Olsen, project manager. “The enhancements also ensure ADA compliance for accessibility and usability of online content, so all customers can access the services they need.”

Built to Reduce Calls and Speed Up Tasks

The updated system has been in development since April 2024 and now mirrors the division’s external website. That shared structure allows users to move between the public site and the portal without relearning where things are.

It also makes the system easier to maintain, which reduces the need for support calls when something changes or breaks. For drivers and small carriers, that means fewer delays when something needs to be handled quickly.

What This Means for Owner-Operators and Fleets

For owner-operators, the change is straightforward. Tasks that used to require a call or extra time navigating the system can now be handled directly online, often in fewer steps.

For fleets, the impact shows up across volume. When multiple trucks need permits or renewals, even small improvements in navigation and processing time reduce the workload.

Nothing about the update changes compliance requirements, but it does change how much time it takes to stay compliant.

Push Toward Self-Service

Alongside the redesign, the division introduced a step-by-step user manual covering transactions available on the platform. The goal is to make it easier for drivers and carriers who do not regularly use the system.

“We’ve also made a step-by-step, comprehensive user manual covering all transactions available on the site,” Olsen said. “We hope that by making self-service and learning more approachable, those who are unfamiliar will learn how easy and secure the new site is to use and become online customers.”

This reflects a broader shift. More compliance work is moving online, and drivers are expected to handle more of it directly.

Where This Fits in Oregon Freight Oversight

The Commerce and Compliance Division oversees intra- and interstate truck and rail freight in Oregon. Its responsibilities include safety enforcement, legal compliance, and collecting the funds used to maintain the state’s transportation system.

For drivers, that oversight shows up through permits, registration, and tax reporting. The updated Oregon Trucking Online system is where much of that work now happens.

The requirements have not changed, but the process has. For drivers moving through Oregon, that difference shows up the next time a permit or renewal needs to be handled.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated May 6, 2026

Source: The Trucker , Oregon Trucking Online

The post Oregon Trucking Online Update Changes How Drivers Handle Permits and Renewals appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The event marked the 30th anniversary of the company’s Million Mile program, which highlights long-term safe driving performance across its fleet.

Drivers Recognized for Long-Term Safety Performance

The group honored this year represents a range of milestones, including drivers who reached 2 million, 3 million, 4 million, and 5 million safe miles.

Among them, four drivers achieved 4 million miles, and one driver reached 5 million miles without a preventable accident. These higher-level milestones are reached by a small number of drivers and reflect extended periods of consistent performance behind the wheel.

Across the company, more than 5,000 drivers have reached at least 1 million safe miles under the program.

What It Takes to Reach Million Mile Status

On average, it takes a driver between 7 and 10 years to reach 1 million miles without a DOT reportable preventable accident.

Reaching higher milestones requires long-term consistency in decision making, trip planning, and on-road awareness. These are not short-term achievements and reflect performance over years of changing conditions and operating environments.

Inside the Million Mile Celebration

The annual event brings together drivers and their families for a multi-day experience at the company headquarters.

Participants are welcomed by leadership, employees, customers, and investors as they arrive to take part in the Million Mile Walk of Fame. The event also includes time for drivers and company leaders to exchange insights and reinforce safety practices that can be applied on the road.

Each driver recognized has their name added to the Million Mile Wall, creating a permanent record of their achievement.

Company Perspective on Safety Recognition

“You can tell a lot about a company by what it chooses to celebrate, and year after year our Million Mile celebration is our biggest opportunity to recognize the drivers who set the standard for safety,” said Nick Hobbs, chief operating officer for J.B. Hunt. “Multimillion-mile achievements are earned one decision at a time through preparation, disciplined habits, and the judgment to do the right thing on every trip, in every condition, without exception. We are proud to recognize this class of drivers and their families, and as a company, we will keep strengthening the support that helps everyone get home safely.”

Why These Milestones Matter for Drivers

Million-mile milestones are based on consistent performance over time, not isolated events. They reflect how drivers manage risk, maintain awareness, and make decisions across thousands of trips.

For drivers, these achievements set a benchmark for what long-term safety performance looks like in real-world conditions.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated May 5, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: J.B. Hunt

The post 54 J.B. Hunt Drivers Recognized for Reaching Up to 5 Million Safe Miles appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

During this week, law enforcement across the United States and Canada will focus on how vehicles are being operated on the road. Commercial drivers and passenger vehicle drivers observed committing unsafe behaviors can be pulled over and issued a warning or a citation.

What Drivers Will See on the Road

Operation Safe Driver Week centers on real-time driving behavior. Officers will be positioned across highways, urban areas, and high traffic routes, watching for violations that increase crash risk.

Speeding, distracted driving, following too closely, unsafe lane changes, and failure to obey traffic signals remain consistent triggers for enforcement. Seatbelt violations, impaired driving, and signs of fatigue are also part of the focus. Drivers should expect increased patrol visibility throughout the week.

How Last Year’s Enforcement Played Out

In 2025, law enforcement personnel in the United States and Canada pulled over 8,739 vehicles during Operation Safe Driver Week. Those stops resulted in 2,504 citations and 3,575 warnings for unsafe driving behaviors.

These results show how frequently enforcement shifts from observation to direct action during targeted campaigns.

Why This Week Matters for Truck Drivers

Unlike inspection-focused events, this initiative targets behavior behind the wheel. That makes it more immediate for drivers operating under tight schedules and changing road conditions.

Driver-related actions are considered preventable, which is why enforcement agencies continue to prioritize them. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 36,640 people were killed in traffic crashes in the United States in 2025. Data from Transport Canada shows an average of about 2,000 motor vehicle fatalities annually, while Mexico reported 15,979 roadway deaths in 2022.

These figures continue to shape enforcement priorities across North America.

2026 Enforcement Focus

This year’s focus is on reckless, careless, or dangerous driving. Enforcement will center on behaviors that show a lack of control or attention behind the wheel.

Reckless driving involves willful disregard for safety. Careless or dangerous driving refers to operating without proper attention or consideration for others on the road. For commercial drivers, these violations can affect safety scores, employer records, and future opportunities.

What Drivers Should Keep in Mind

As enforcement increases, consistency in how the vehicle is operated becomes the deciding factor. Following distance, speed control, lane discipline, and attention behind the wheel are the same behaviors that determine whether a driver is stopped.

Drivers who stay disciplined in these areas are less likely to be pulled over during targeted enforcement efforts like Operation Safe Driver Week.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated May 5, 2026

Source: Truckers News

The post CVSA July 2026 Enforcement Week Will Target Unsafe Driving Across the U.S. and Canada appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Specialty Award Winners

• Rookie of the Year: Thomas Brownlow, XPO
• Written Test Champion: Steve Elliston, Walmart
• Pre-Trip Champion: Brent Darnell, Southeastern Freight Lines
• Small Team Trophy: Old Dominion Freight Line
• Large Team Trophy: Walmart Transportation

Individual Class Winners

• Three-Axle: Chuck Pearson, ABF Freight System
• Four-Axle: Joe Norris, Old Dominion Freight Line
• Five-Axle: Tony Johnson, Frito-Lay
• Flatbed: David Price, Publix
• Sleeper: Mark Cofer, FedEx Freight
• Step Van: Matthew Futral, FedEx Express
• Straight Truck: Daniel Arnold, FedEx Freight
• Tanker: Steve Elliston, Walmart
• Twins: Darren Isreal, XPO

The National Truck Driving and Step Van Driving Competition is scheduled for August 11 through 14 in Pittsburgh.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated May 2, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Georgia Trucking Association

The post Frito-Lay Driver Wins Georgia Trucking Association Driving Championship appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.