Trucking Industry Safety News
Transportation businesses face a host of dynamic risk issues that can significantly impact their financial and operational health. The news in this category focuses on the latest safety and security initiatives, resources and regulations and addresses topics that include fleet safety, claims administration, driver hiring and retention, risk management and compliance.
FMCSA Announces Proposal to Amend Driver Vision Standard
A new regulation would allow truck drivers who cannot meet current federal vision standards of either distant visual acuity or field of vision, or both, in one eye to be physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce.
Trucking Becomes More Focused on Health, Efficiency
Trucking embraced risk management and technology that drives efficiency in response to the coronavirus pandemic, industry leaders said in a panel discussion Jan. 25.
Connecticut DOT Unveils $9.7 Billion Transportation Investment Plan
The Connecticut Department of Transportation released its $9.7 billion capital plan, which includes investments across various modes of transportation over the next five years.
Senate Committee to Meet for Gina Raimondo Confirmation Hearing
President Joe Biden’s pick to lead the U.S. Department of Commerce is scheduled to defend her nomination before a Senate panel Jan. 26.
Audit Finds Flaws in FMCSA Monitoring of Drivers’ Medical Qualifications
An Inspector General audit has found weaknesses in regulators’ monitoring of medical examiner qualifications and ensuring that truck drivers meet physical qualification standards to safely operate commercial vehicles.
Buttigieg Pledges to Make Transportation Systems COVID-Safe
President Joe Biden’s pick to run the Department of Transportation says he will focus on preventing the spread of COVID-19 on the nation’s transportation systems if he is confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
Safety Equipment, Training for Contractors Doesn’t Endanger Status, DOL Says
The U.S. Department of Labor has issued an opinion letter ruling that motor carriers can supply independent contractors safety equipment such as dash cams, speed limiters and driver monitoring systems, and also require that they take safety training without jeopardizing their independent contractor status.
Technology, Pandemic Reshape Industry’s Business Models, Panel Says
Advancements in technology and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic have driven major changes in trucking, a panel of experts said Jan. 19.
Maryland DOT Weighs Three Proposals for Major P3
The Maryland Department of Transportation has received three proposals from teams composed of private sector firms interested in becoming the developer for major interstate improvement work.
Plaintiff Attorneys Often Use 'Reptile Theory' to Win Nuclear Trucking Jury Verdicts, Experts Say
In trucking accident lawsuits, the "reptile theory" is a method plaintiff lawyers have deployed in pursuit of so-called “nuclear” jury verdicts.