CAUGHT IN THE SYSTEM
Truck drivers deliver a great number of goods from coast to coast. Most of these drivers are careful and courteous to the "4-wheelers" and other trucks on the road. Too frequently, though, they have to deal with unrealistic deadlines to get materials delivered. Some truck drivers also have reported to us that the conditions of their trucks are below standards, but they have to keep moving. Job security, insurance benefits, and the right to disagree with their "boss" vary from state to state. In some states, if a truck driver complains about their working conditions, they can be dismissed.
We feel that safer highways for all vehicles, including large trucks, is a must. By joining together, truck drivers, consumers, and safety organizations can make a difference.
We would like to hear from truck drivers about the problems that arise and concerns you have about being "caught in the system" and determing your legal rights.
These are some of the comments we've heard so far:
"Everything you have has been moved by a truck at one time or another. And, no, we are not rich people...most of us live pay to pay."
"There is not a job in the world that doesn't depend on a trucker and the trucking industry."
"... a truck brings just about everything you own, from the bed you sleep on to the food you eat... Its not just trucks that cause accidents, it is the uninformed motoring public and your split speed limits."
"...many of them (the truck drivers) have lost their families due to being gone away from home to make a dollar to make ends meet."
"I have been driving an 18 wheeler for 45 years and the only two accidents that I have had were 100% the fault of the 4 wheeler. (During one incident) I got on my horns and she kept turning and instead of T boning the pickup I turned with it and rolled my truck, getting hurt but spared the driver and passenger of the pickup. The trooper report indicated that the pickup was 100% at fault. It took 4 months and $15,000 before I was able to get back going."
Revised Hours of Service regulations
Read how now even longer driving hours are being institutionalized by the government.
SOURCE: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/Home_Files/hos/hos_enforcement_nov24-03.htm