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Lifestyle Trucker News

How to Improve Transportation Safety

According to UnitedJustice.com, highway deaths make up 94% of transportation deaths. More than 100 people die in transportation accidents every day in the United States. Local transportation safety plans and guidelines are intended to prevent unnecessary accidents and save lives. Identifying trends is key to eliminating as many accidents as possible and promoting transportation safety for everyone on the road. If you’re hoping to improve transportation safety issues in your area, take into consideration traffic signals, emergency response and traffic flow, which are are all important safety issues for every type of vehicle on the road.
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Focus on roads that have a history of accidents. Areas that are known for congestion can be made better by geometric improvements or new signals. Road safety audits are examinations carried out by a team of people in order to determine potential safety issues on roads and at intersections.

Educate your local townspeople about crashes involving deer. According to Rutgers, drivers should understand that deer/vehicle collisions happen most often during the fall season at both dawn and dusk, when visibility is low. If you spot a deer in the road or on the side of the road, slow down but don’t veer to one side. Let the deer pass and be forewarned that other deer may follow.

Finance the safety programs. Without financial backing, transportation safety programs cannot be established and safety issues won’t change or improve. Funding can come from local, state and federal sources, as well as local transportation agencies. Fire departments and rescue departments may be willing to contribute money for this cause.

Encourage drivers not to use their cell phone while driving. Whether dialing a number, texting or being involved in a conversation, drivers who use their cell phones run the risk of being distracted and having an accident. Drivers can use a headset or Bluetooth device if they need to talk on the phone while driving. However, according to PacificTel.com, hands-free devices are still not as safe as simply not using a phone while behind the wheel.

Promote different modes of transportation, such as walking or cycling. Less people in vehicles on the road means less congestion and accidents. The amount of greenhouse gases being emitted would also be reduced.

Increase safety at crosswalks to prevent pedestrian accidents. Pedestrians who get into accidents with motor vehicles must be protected under transportation safety initiatives as well. Providing crossing guards at crosswalks during heavy traffic times would improve safety. Also, installing timers at crosswalks that designate 30 seconds for pedestrians to cross the street would help to ensure that motorists are stopped at the intersection.

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Lifestyle Trucker News

Internet to Buy and Sell Trucks

Used trucks once sold by running ads in newspapers and magazines, posting them on a public bulletin board and by word of mouth. Some people still use these methods even though they are not as effective as the Internet. The web has continued to grow attracting more and more people of all age’s everyday. Internet advertising reaches more people than any other media outlet. Online ads allow millions of people worldwide to see the product resulting in more sales and for buyers it allows them to locate better deals. It is a win situation for everyone.

The web is the ideal place for truck dealers to advertise their product. An Internet experienced dealer knows hot to list their trucks to get the best results. Start by taking pictures. When a shopper is not physically on site pictures are the next thing. Take photos from every angle from the top of the truck to the bottom showing that you have nothing to hide. Post pictures of the inside of everything from the seats to the dashboard, and on the outside from the tires to clearance lights on top.
Written text is as important as photos. List all the trucks specifications as if you were the buyer. Using this method to list your specifications and features makes it more likely that your listing will be complete. List any special or outstanding features that would attract buyers. If it is possible list the maintenance the truck has received. A detailed maintenance schedule attracts buyers because a well-maintained truck indicates the past owner has taken good care of it leaving less for the buyer to perform. Strong descriptions and pictures increase the click rate by 85 percent.

Choose the online advertising site where the pictures and text will appear. Some sites allow you to set up a storefront where you decide the trucks you want to feature. A shopping cart and checkout is included that calculates the tax and shipping charges. You can list your trucks on an auction site but space is sometimes limited. There are places to set up your own website that gives you total control. Some sites charge a small fee to list your products, but because many of them already have an established audience, it is a good choice. The more exposure the trucks receive the faster they will sell.

Truck buyers and sellers save money by using the web. Sellers have little overhead, so they can sell trucks cheaper online. Buyers can browse at their leisure without traveling from lot to lot. Those who will not buy without personally looking and test driving the truck can narrow their choice down to a few. Online sales will be more successful by establishing a good reputation. Be honest about everything listed. Take pictures that show the truck as it really is and list any major flaws. Your listing is only one among many, so make sure the price you list is fair.

Make certain your contact information is accurate and easy to locate. Eliminating unnecessary e-mails or phone calls to establish the true condition of the truck will quickly put you on the favorite list of many repeat buyers. Word of mouth advertising is still the best or worst there is and is the one thing that has not changed.

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Lifestyle Trucker News

How to Transport a Car Cross Country

If you are in the middle of moving across the country, getting all of your belongings to your new homestead can seem overwhelming. You will most likely invest in a moving truck for all of your belongings. After investing in the truck, the only other obstacle in the way of your successful move is figuring out how to get your car cross-country. Luckily, you have a few options when it comes to transporting a car.
1

Find a car-shipping company and hire them to transport your vehicle cross-country. Car-shipping companies transport vehicles on freight trains or on tractor-trailers. Your decision may change based on where you are moving to, so you should explore both long-haul options. Movecars.com has a large directory of car-shipping companies across the United States.
2

Clean out your car before you ship it because you’re leaving it in the hands of others. Though you most likely will have insurance on the transport, don’t leave any valuables in the car that could get stolen.
3

Take your car to the shipping company and find out the drop-off point. Take down all of the shipper’s information, including where your car is being dropped off and who you can contact if there is any trouble.

Driving Your Car Cross-Country

1

Another option for transporting your car cross-country is to drive it yourself. Plan your drive so you can plot places to stop, what routes to take and how long the trip will take.
2

Bring someone with you. Not only will having a companion add to the fun factor, it will keep you from getting worn out. Driving endless hours across the country can tire mentally and physically, so it is good to have someone else along to help you drive.
3

Practice proper car maintenance on your drive. One of the worst things that could happen on your cross-country transport of your car is for it to break down. To help ward off unforeseen breakdowns, check your oil level, tire pressure and other fluid levels when you stop for gas.

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Lifestyle Trucker News

Regulations on Hauling Scrap Cars

It should not be taken for granted that anyone can just hop into any vehicle and haul a scrap car to anywhere. Not only are there many regulations that must be followed that apply to this activity, but there are also many regulating agencies who are consistently updating the rules.

Regulating Agencies
States have own regulations

Federal regulations that apply to hauling of scrap cars are made by the Department of Transportation through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. In addition, the Department of Environmental Quality has its own waste hauling requirements that are applicable to the hauling of scrap cars. Many states and counties also have their own regulations to follow.

Factors Being Regulated
Trucks and drivers are regulated

Federal and local regulations applicable to hauling of scrap cars include those that apply to the drivers, the vehicles used in hauling, the scrap that is being transported, the hazardous materials that may be part of the scrap car, and the companies that haul the scrap. Below are some examples.

Regulations on Drivers
No part of cargo can fall off

A driver is not only limited in the number of hours he or she may drive each day, but must also be sure all the hours driven are logged. The driver cannot drive more hours than allowed because this can cause accidents. A driver must have a logbook, insurance information, a camera and other equipment in the vehicle at all times. There are also regulations on drug and alcohol testing and special training requirements.

Regulations on Vehicles

All roads have weight limitations

Regulations on vehicles used to haul scrap cars include length, width and weight limitations, compliance with interstate noise emission standards, and parts and accessories necessary for safe operation. Almost every road in the country has axle weight regulations that must be followed. It is important to know exactly which roads are going to be taken, and that a truck is not too heavy for any of these roads.

Recent Change in Vehicle Regulations
Debris Falling Off Trucks

The FMCSA recently changed rules that require motor carriers to change the way they secure cargo to prevent parts from shifting or falling while in transport. While these carriers were not required to buy new equipment for securing cargo, the intention was to reduce accidents. This caused many vehicle owners and manufacturers to make changes in the design of their vehicles.

Regulations On Hazardous Materials
Gas and oil have to be drained

In trying to improve safety on the highways, the FMCSA aims to reduce the number of incidents involving hazardous materials. The organization has drawn up lists of hazardous materials, how to comply with these regulations, driving and parking rules, fueling rules, and rules on tires. Thus, before a car is crushed and shipped for melting, fluids are drained, tires and batteries removed and catalytic converters cut off.

Regulations on Hauling Companies

Hauling companies are also regulated

While companies hauling scrap make profits, many regulations by so many agencies make it a difficult business to learn and compete in. There are rules that define levels of financial responsibility, forms required for all kinds of operations, and many possible violations and penalties defined for such companies. These are in addition to having to know and follow rules on drivers, vehicles and hazardous materials, and to cope with rule changes.

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Carriers Lifestyle

How to Get Truck Driver Training

Truck driving is an occupation that consistently posts the most job openings. Regardless of the state of the economy, goods need to be transported and that means the trucking industry needs drivers. To join the ranks of this growing profession, however, you need to get truck driver training. These steps explain how that’s done.


1

Obtain a driver’s license from the state in which you reside.
2

Initiate the process of obtaining a Commercial Driver’ License (CDL) by getting a state CDL permit. That is done by taking a written examination at your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (or your state’s equivalent), which covers general knowledge and a combination vehicle and air brakes tests.
3

Consider completing the optional endorsement examinations for hazardous materials, double and triple wide trailers and tankers. Upon obtaining these endorsements, your temporary instruction permit (TIP) will reflect that you are licensed to run that type of machinery.
4

Research truck driving schools online or through your local Yellow Pages to find a training facility that best suits your needs. Compare the type, quality and duration of each school’s training program. Websites, such as cdl truck training.com list training centers by state.
5

Choose between a private school, public institution or one operated by a motor carrier. Private schools generally are run by for-profit organizations and train those with an interest in the trucking profession. Public institutions are government funded and include community colleges and vocational training schools. Motor carrier training is operated by trucking companies.
6

Select a truck driver training school that offers practical and hands-on driving instruction, and then be an attentive learner so you can find a great truck driving job when you complete your training.
7

Search for a job with a trucking company. Websites, such as integritytds.com, help drivers secure a job sometimes even before they have completed their training.

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Lifestyle Trucker News

Types of Transportation

When planning a vacation, it is imperative that you plan not only how to get there, but how you are going to get around once you reach your destination as well. There are many modes of travel that you can use when seeing the sites in one city or traveling to multiple cities during one adventure. Vacationing is all about making the most of your time visiting and touring new or familiar favorite places again, and depending on what you consider exciting, there are many ways to accomplish your goals.

On Foot

There are many types of transportation that will get you to your destination, but few that offer the adventures that walking offers. This is where the old idea of backpacking through Europe became such a popular goal in life .

Renting Cars

There is always the option of renting a car at almost any city that you choose to visit. This allows you to get places faster but still on your own time and schedule.

Public Rides

Buses, trains, subways, taxis and other chauffeured automobiles give you the leisure of having someone else who knows the area drive you around. Most popular hotspot cities even offer these types of transportation with guided tours, so all you have to do is sit back and look during your vacation.

Air Travel

Planes are still one of the most popular means of getting to a particular destination fast. This includes public flights, private jets and even helicopter tours.

Water Traveling

Another popular vacationing travel ideas is on the water. Everything from riverboat tours and whale watching voyages to long cruises, offers all the conveniences of home with different types of transportation to see the world in a whole different way than you would on land.

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Lifestyle Trucker News

The Effect of Reckless Teen Driving on Society

There is a serious price to pay for reckless teen driving, both in human lives and dollars. It seems that every day there is a story on the news about another teenage life senselessly lost. States are enacting new laws to help save these lives; parents can keep their children safe by making them aware of the responsibility and danger that comes with a driver’s license.

Frightening Statistics

The Center for Disease Control lays it out in plain numbers. In the United States in 2005, the Center claims 4,544 teens between the ages of 16 and 19 died from injuries caused by a motor vehicle crash. That year, according to the CDC, teenagers accounted for 10 percent of the U.S. population, but they made up 12 percent of motor vehicle crash deaths.
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Reckless Teen Driving Costs Money

The loss of human lives is the most painful effect that reckless teen driving has on society, but it doesn’t end there. According to the CDC, young people between the ages of 15 and 24 account for 30 percent (or $19 billion) of the total costs of motor vehicle injuries among males and 28 percent ($7 billion) of the total costs of motor vehicle injuries among females.

Why Do Teens Seem More Reckless?

Most people today learn to drive during their teenage years. However, according to the National Safety Council, this may not be the best time to get behind the wheel. According to the NSC, “The area of the brain that weighs consequences, suppresses impulses and organizes thoughts does not fully mature until about age 25.” Hormones are also very active in teenagers.Partners for Safe Teen Driving points out that most teenagers learn to drive under optimal conditions. Hazards, such as severe weather, might not be encountered until later when they are behind the wheel and alone.

What Is Being Done?

Graduated licensing programs have been the country’s most popular reaction to reckless teenage driving. They vary by state, but a typical graduated licensing program would first allow a learner’s permit. Then, most driver’s licenses will come with a mandatory period during which they are prohibited from having passengers in the car, unless that person is an adult, guardian or other relative. There are typically nighttime restrictions, as well.
These laws cut down on the distraction of driving with friends or driving during periods of low visibility or when teens might be more likely to try to speed or drink and drive.

What Can Families Do?

Partners for Safe Teen Driving recommends talking to teenagers about the dangers of reckless driving. It also recommends being a good role model for teenagers, who are often looking up to parents or other role models for unspoken guidance. These role models should always wear their seat belts, obey speed limits and minimize distractions while on the road with teen drivers, or when driving, period.

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Lifestyle Trucker News

How to Ride Public Transportation in Vancouver

Vancouver, British Columbia, long hailed as one of Canada’s most beautiful cities, also boasts one of its most efficient public transportation systems. Since no major freeway serves its downtown area, a series of ferries, buses and a light rail system serves commuters.

Take a bus operated by Translink, the Greater Vancouver Transportation Authority. The company offers buses powered by diesel or natural gas and trolley buses. Some buses have comfortable, padded seats, wheelchair access and bike racks. The electric trolley buses run on major routes connecting to downtown Vancouver. Regular transit buses feed into other routes and services, including SkyTrain.

Ride the SkyTrain, an elevated train system which serves metropolitan Vancouver and extends as far as the suburbs of Surrey, New Westminister and Burnaby. This modern, high-speed service debuted at the 1986 Expo. It will eventually expand to include service to the Vancouver International Airport.

Buy a ticket for commuter rail service to downtown Vancouver from the suburbs. The West Coast Express offers these rides, with connecting bus service for passengers who live in outlying areas. The West Coast Express operates Monday thru Friday only.

Enjoy the free Albion Ferry as you travel between the North and South sides of the Fraser River. This service offers frequent trips between Maple Ridge and Surrey and other points.

Use the SeaBus service to reach Vancouver’s North Shore. Two terminals serve passengers with catamaran style ferries from downtown.

Obtain a ticket for all TransLink services from vending machines, or buy a pass if you work downtown or plan to visit Vancouver for an extended period. Check out the Vancouver TransLink website for more information and current prices.

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Lifestyle Trucker News

DOT: Biohazard Regulations

The United States Department of Transportation oversees the transportation of hazardous materials under the requirements of the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act of 1975. According to the HMTA, a hazardous material is defined as “any substance or material that can burn, explode, react violently or cause injury or harm to people, property or the environment during transport.” Biohazard material or biological agents, substance or materials that can cause injury to animals, humans or the environment is covered under the HMTA. The U.S. DOT has specific requirements for the transportation of these materials.

Employee Training

Before handling or transporting a biohazard material, an employee must attend and complete a DOT-approved minimum 8-hour training course that covers aspects of HAZMAT such as identification, labeling, packaging and placard requirements. The employee must pass a test on the subjects covered to satisfy this requirement.

Transport Hazard Communication Markings

Hazard communication refers to labeling specific types of hazardous materials with a placard on the side and rear of the transport vehicle. The placard requirements differ depending on the type of hazardous material as specified by the Hazardous Materials Table in the HMTA. Biohazard materials are covered under Class 6 and 7 of the Hazardous Materials Table, poisons and etiologic materials are covered under Class 6, and radioactive materials are covered under Class 7.

Container

Biohazard materials must be transported within a leak-proof, sealed and puncture-resistant tank or container. In addition to the required Transport Hazard Communication markings, containers being transported must have hazard documentation at all times, including relevant information concerning the contents such as the accumulation date, the specific hazardous properties of the material being transported, the name and address of the company or laboratory to where the material is being transported and where it is coming from and the composition (whether the material is solid or liquid).

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Lifestyle

Careers That Don’t Require GED

In today’s economy, most fast-growing, well-paying careers require a high school diploma or GED, and many require some level of college education and professional certification. Individuals without a diploma or GED are not necessarily limited to low-paying, dead-end jobs. There are several careers that don’t require a high school diploma or GED.


Truck Driver

Truck drivers pick up and deliver cargo between manufacturing facilities, distributors and customers. Drivers deliver many types of cargo, including foods, live plants and animals, chemicals, automobiles, machinery, parts, tools and more. Drivers may operate light delivery trucks, vans or semi-trucks. Long-haul drivers cover long routes over several states or between the U.S., Canada and Mexico, sometimes lasting several days at a time. Local delivery drivers cover shorter local routes, and typically complete a route in one day. Truck drivers typically need to be 18 years old, have a clean driving record and criminal history, and complete a training course in which they learn truck driving rules and regulations and obtain a Commercial Driver’s License. Drivers who handle large equipment or hazardous materials may need additional training or certification. Truck drivers may be paid by the hour or by the mile.

Retail Salesperson

Retail sales associates assist customers in finding and choosing merchandise, increase sales by describing the features and benefits of products, operate cash registers to process sales transactions and returns, stock and organize merchandise, and create displays. Retail salespersons may work in a specialty store selling a specific type of merchandise, such as shoes or jewelry, or may work in a specific department of a department store or superstore selling a variety of merchandise. Retail salespersons generally make a base hourly wage and earn money on commission based on sales. Many retail jobs do not require a high school diploma or GED, though jobs selling certain categories of merchandise, such as electronics or computers, may require a specific level of education or expertise.

Refuse and Recyclable Materials Collectors

Trash and recycling collectors gather trash and recyclables from homes and businesses and load them on a truck for transport a facility for disposal or recycling. Collectors must be able to lift heavy loads, including large trash bags, trash cans and recycling bins, and operate hydraulic lifts on trucks. They must work outdoors, sometimes in inclement weather and extreme temperatures. Most jobs require workers to be 18 years old, though some prefer a high school diploma or GED. Workers receive on the job training, and some must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License to drive a garbage truck. Refuse collectors are typically paid hourly and may or may not be part of a union.