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Truck Parking at Weigh Stations – Part 2

Sep 30th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
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Suzanne Roquemore

Every day its seems like there are more trucks on the road. And every night, it seems like there are more trucks trying to park in the truck stops- and not enough parking spots to accommodate them. When truckers are tired, they need to park. Hours of Service legislation requires a 10 hour break, and when enough 10 hour breaks overlap, parking becomes scarce.

One option for truckers is parking at weigh stations. Some states allow it, some don't. It's best to know ahead of time so that, if you can't find a parking spot at the truck stop, you can have a backup plan! In Scalehouses and Parking, Part I, we covered California, Georgia, Florida and Kentucky weigh stations. This article covers Arkansas, Connecticut, Michigan, South Carolina and Wyoming.

Arkansas

Don't consider parking in Arkansas weigh stations. Many of the old weigh stations have been converted to truck parking, like Lonoke, Jacksonville and Benton. But working weigh stations like West Memphis and Fort Smith are reserved for weigh station business only. Officers may allow you to park there if the weather is bad, but otherwise they'll direct you to continue on to designated truck parking areas.

Connecticut

The officers at the Greenwich weigh station will allow you to park, so long as they don't need the space. They may wake you up to have you move the truck (regardless of HOS requirements). Generally they prefer you to park at the far end of the lot on the left side (the side away from the freeway). Officers want you to know that if you do park there, they have the right to inspect your paperwork or truck when you get ready to leave. The Meriden and Danbury weigh stations are connected to rest areas- though the Meriden rest area has a very small lot- you should not plan to find parking there. The weigh stations on I 95 in eastern Connecticut are rarely open and have large enough parking lots to accommodate several trucks- though parking is not a guarantee. You may be asked to leave, but it's not likely. Keep in mind that idling laws limit you to 5 minutes of idle time. Officers will be more lenient during extreme weather, but don't be surprised to get a knock on your truck if you're idling. Parking is not allowed at the Union weigh station.

Michigan

So long as there is room, Michigan allows truckers to park in the weigh stations. Officers at the Monroe nb weigh station say that they would much rather have tired truckers part at their weigh station than have them continue down the road. There is plenty of room at the nb and sb Monroe weigh stations. Truckers won't be hassled if they park unless there is an obvious violation.

South Carolina

Commercial Vehicle Enforcement officers say that truckers can park in the weigh stations so long as there is room to do so. This is up to officer discretion, a driver may be asked to leave. South Carolina has plans to revamp previously closed rest areas (thanks to T.A. Thomas for sending a link to the news story) to provide additional truck parking and, according to state police, has already converted the Canady's weigh stations to parking areas for commercial vehicles.

Wyoming

Officers at the east bound Evanston Port of Entry say that they allow truckers to park at the far end of the lot to take their breaks, but they'd like the driver to come in and inform them that he'll be parking so that they know it's not an unattended vehicle. Other weigh stations in the state of Wyoming are not so welcoming. Parking is limited elsewhere and the weigh stations are not truck stops. In most cases, the officers would rather have a tired trucker park than go down the road and pose a safety hazard. If you're tired, you won't lose anything by asking to park at a weigh station. They are not required to allow you to do so, however.

CoopsAreOpen.com is the only comprehensive online resource for over 1100 truck weigh stations and scales as well as state DOT weight regulations and policies. Knowledge of the varying policies and the ability to manage or avoid most weigh stations can save truckers thousands of dollars in ticket fines. For further information, contact Suzanne at information@coopsareopen.com or view Truck Weigh Station, Scales and State DOT Information at http://www.CoopsAreOpen.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Roquemore

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Posted in: Trucking Life.
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Truck Parking at Weigh Stations, Part 1

Sep 29th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
105 comments

Suzanne Roquemore

Tired truckers are everyone's problem. And no trucker wants to drive tired. Some truckers insist that if you plan your trip properly, you should always be able to find parking. Other truckers understand that no matter how much you plan, truck parking can be elusive. Truck stops fill up, usually later than earlier. But truckers can't force themselves to be tired according to a plan. Laying in bed wide awake when your plan calls for sleep doesn't make for a good night's sleep. Unfortunately, looking for a place to park is simply part of being a truck driver.

Most drivers avoid parking in weigh stations like the plague. It's understandable. But, if you're tired, maybe it's not such a bad idea. The following is a guideline to some states' policies toward truckers parking at weigh stations- what's allowed, what isn't and what the truckers can expect.

California

There is no official policy in California about parking at the weigh stations. And there is no official policy at any of the weigh stations, so you may run into a rogue officer who prefers hassling truckers to letting them sleep. But, in general, you are safer to park at California weigh stations than you may have thought.

Truckers who are looking for a safe place to park should consider parking at the Banning weigh station. There is no official policy, but the consensus among most of the officers at the Banning truck scale is that they would rather have drivers park to rest at the weigh station than have tired drivers on the roadway. If you do want to park, you'll want to cross the scale, park, and go inside to inform the officers that you'd like to take your break. That way they will know that your truck is not "unattended." Unattended trucks have a 4-hour time limit after which the truck will be towed. Officers at the Wheeler Ridge weigh station agree. Tired truckers are dangerous, and they'd rather that truckers take their break at the weigh station than drive tired. At Wheeler Ridge, it is not necessary to inform officers that you'll be parking for a while.

California weigh stations with less room do not allow parking. For instance, trucks are not allowed to park at either San Onofre nb or San Onofre sb. Trucks are also not allowed to park at the Truckee weigh station. Same goes for Conejo nb and Conejo sb. But even that is not set in stone. Officers at the Conejo nb scale say that if they are not busy and if a trucker comes in and tells them he's tired, they may use their own discretion and allow the driver to park and take his break. Both the Conejo nb and Conejo sb scales will, however, lock their gates during closed hours- unless there are out of service vehicles parked. Do Not plan on parking in the ramps when the weigh station is closed.

Florida

Truck parking is allowed- in fact, it is welcomed- at any of Florida's "super coops," such as the weigh stations in Pensacola, Wildwood and Flagler Beach. Parking is limited at other Florida weigh station locations, like Hopewell or Bunnell, and so drivers should not expect to be able to find parking at those scales. Florida DOT officers say that drivers can park at any of the Florida "super coops" without fear of chancing an unwanted inspection. If an officer sees something that is clearly a safety violation- like a flat tire- the driver will be notified of the violation before he or she leaves the weigh station and it will have to be fixed. But officers will not ask a driver who has been parked at the weigh station for his or her logbook, nor will they pick the vehicle for an inspection. Unless, of course, the driver parked there because he or she was put out of service- if a driver was put out of service for a log book violation, they may ask to see the drivers logbook before that driver is allowed to leave the weigh station.

Georgia

Truck parking is allowed at any Georgia weigh station so long as there is room. Drivers are asked to park in the back lot at any of the Georgia "super coops." One Georgia weigh station where parking spaces are not abundant is the Lithia Springs weigh station on I 20 east bound, west of Atlanta. Drivers should not plan to park at the Lithia Springs weigh station. Georgia DOT officers say that, while drivers probably will not be subject to inspection if they have been parked at the weigh station, it's not out of the question. Officers may choose to ask a driver pulling out of the parking area to show his or her log book. They may also choose to inspect the truck. This is not likely, but there is no policy prohibiting the practice.

Kentucky

The Walton weigh station and the Verona weigh station are designated "safe haven" locations for truckers. This means truckers are welcome to park there without fear of chancing and unwanted inspection. Kentucky enforcement officers say that truckers may be inspected when they come into the weigh station, but once they have cleared the truck scale and have gone to the "safe haven" lot, they no longer have to be concerned about it. "Safe Haven" weigh stations provide a safe place for truckers to park.

CoopsAreOpen.com is the only comprehensive online resource for over 1100 truck weigh stations and scales as well as state DOT weight regulations and policies. Knowledge of the varying policies and the ability to manage or avoid most weigh stations can save truckers thousands of dollars in ticket fines. For further information, view Truck Weigh Station, Scales and State DOT Information at http://www.CoopsAreOpen.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Roquemore

Suzanne Roquemore - EzineArticles Expert Author

Posted in: Trucking Life.
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I Want My 400 Pounds! – Trucking, APUs And Weight Allowances

Sep 28th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
120 comments

Suzanne Roquemore

There's a lot of hubbub about APUs (Auxiliary Power Units- or generators) these days. Yes, the federal government is allowing up to 400 lbs for trucks with APUs- or any device used to reduce fuel use and emissions. It's part of the idling reduction strategy- to encourage truckers and trucking companies to install APUs. But that doesn't mean you can always get it.

The wording of the law says that any vehicle with an APU "may be allowed up to an additional 400 lbs total in gross, axle, tandem, or bridge formula weight limits"- a generator installed on the tractor would not allow for bridge law variance.

The problem is that, though the federal government is allowing the weight increase, the states don't have to allow it. That means in one state you may be allowed to run up to 80,400 lbs. but in the next state, you may be limited to 80,000 lbs. despite the federal government's ruling. Many states already have weight tolerances above the 400 lb weight exemption, so the ruling really doesn't affect the enforcement procedures.

It's great in theory, but in practice, it's pretty much worthless.

What we've run into is that many officers are unaware of the Federal ruling, so, while a state legislature may have adopted the 400 lb allowance, the enforcement officers may not be aware of it. All of the following information is subject to change and, as always, the right hand may not know what the left hand is doing. Be prepared to show as much documentation as possible whenever you run into a road block!

The following is a list of states and the status of their 400 lb weight exemption status. We are contact state officials directly- none of this is second-hand information. All information is subject to change.

States that have adopted the 400 lb weight allowance (officers at the weigh stations may be unaware):

Arkansas

Arkansas will allow an extra 400 lbs on an axle to account for the APU but will not allow more than 80,000 lbs for gross weight.

California

Idaho

Maine

Maryland

Michigan

Michigan DOES allow 400 lbs for an APU. The problem you may run into is that no weigh station officers we spoke with knew about the Federal ruling and the Michigan Center for Truck Safety was under the impression that Michigan had not adopted the ruling, but could not say for sure. According to Lieutenant Dave Ford, Michigan does indeed honor the 400 lb ruling. Drivers are required to have the APU's weight documented by the manufacturer and have proof that the documented APU has been installed on that unit (as opposed to a different APU).

North Dakota

Oregon

Oregon Senate bill 223 officially allows trucks with APU (auxiliary power units) an extra 400 lbs in their gross weight limits. Oregon complies with the federal ruling and requires written certification of the APU's weight. Oregon motor carrier enforcement officers have been allowing the 400 pound weight exemption since February of 2006. The APU must be in working condition.

Virginia

The 400 lb weight exemption is allowed on interstate highways only. Drivers on state routes are subject to Virginia's standard gross and axle weight enforcement.

Washington

States that have not adopted the 400 lb weight exemption and:

*have weight tolerances (for scale variance)

*have low fee amounts and won't make you offload for 400 lbs overweight

*and states whose officers are very unlikely to give you a ticket unless you provoke them- officer discretion is a factor (the officers in many of these states did not know about the 400 lb weight exemption but said the 400 lbs is too low for them to bother with):

Connecticut

Officers at the Greenwich weigh station didn't know about the Federal ruling, but they said the chances of them writing a citation for such a small amount is unlikely. That stretch of I 95 is limited to 80,000 lbs no matter what permits a driver is carrying, so the limit is 80,000 lbs. 80,001 lbs may result in a ticket, but it's not likely until the truck reaches 81,000 lbs, depending on officer discretion. The official word from Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Headquarters is that Connecticut has not adopted the 400 pound weight exemption.

Colorado

Delaware

Georgia

Florida

Kentucky

Depends entirely on officer discretion- you are not likely to get a ticket for 400 lbs.

Louisiana

Montana

New Mexico

New York

North Carolina

Officers at the North Carolina weigh stations that we called didn't know about the Federal 400 lb allowance but said that they have a 500 lb tolerance that they'll allow before they start writing tickets.

South Dakota

Officers would not disclose their tolerance allowance but say their tolerance is greater than 400 lbs, so, even though the legilature may not have adopted the Federal standard yet, their current standards allow for the increased weight.

Utah

Officers at the Henefer POE say they will allow up to 500 lbs for an APU. Officers at other POEs were unsure about the law.

West Virginia

Wyoming

Officers at the Cheyenne I 25 nb weigh station say they will allow up to 500 lbs over with no ticket.

States that do not allow 400 lbs for an APU (based on our inquiries- subject to change):

Alabama, Arizona, Indiana, New Jersey

There are several states missing from this list. We are still contacting states we have not received an answer from and will provide updated information when it becomes available! Feel free to contact us with your input and experiences.

To get the 400 lb. allowance, you'll need to be able to provide:

* certified weight of the APU in writing (if your APU only weighs 380 lbs, you'll only be allowed 380 lbs)

* certified proof (or be able to demonstrate) that the APU is functional (working)

You'll also want to carry a copy of the Federal regulation with you. You can find it in the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations [http://www.gpoaccess.gov/ECFR/] in Title 23 (Highways), part 658.17 (you'll find it in section n).

CoopsAreOpen.com is the only comprehensive online resource for over 1100 truck weigh stations and scales as well as state DOT weight regulations and policies. Knowledge of the varying policies and the ability to manage or avoid most weigh stations can save truckers thousands of dollars in ticket fines. For further information, view Truck Weigh Station, Scales and State DOT Information at http://www.CoopsAreOpen.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Roquemore

Suzanne Roquemore - EzineArticles Expert Author

Posted in: Trucking Rules.
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100 Day DOT Blitz – New Mexico’s Campaign to Make Highways Safer This Summer

Sep 27th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
180 comments

Suzanne Roquemore

The State of New Mexico is cracking down on drivers- and, this time, it's not just truckers they're after! The 100 Days and Nights of Summer campaign is an effort by the State of New Mexico Department of Transportation and New Mexico State Police to reduce auto fatalities by 25 percent in 2008. According to New Mexico DOT, summertime is the deadliest time of the year on New Mexico roads.

The focus of the 100 Day blitz are DWI, seat belt use and reckless driving. The bottom line: slow down, buckle up and don't drink and drive. This is one DOT blitz truckers ought to be happy about!

Truckers who see signs about "DOT Blitz" or "Check Point Ahead" or "100 Day Blitz" tend to get nervous. Especially when news of the signage comes on the heels of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) Roadcheck 2008. Truck drivers, who are already scrutinized on a regular basis, want to know if they should expect extra scrutiny during a 100 Day DOT Blitz. Drivers should always be prepared to encounter an unexpected inspection checkpoint, but, though truck inspections are always a possibility, these checkpoints are more for car drivers than for truckers. DOT is advertising the campaign in an effort to influence people's driving decisions.

DWI:
Drinking and driving kills. In order to get drunk drivers off the road during the summer campaign, New Mexico law enforcement will set up more than 100 DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) check points. In addition to these check points, officers around the state are focusing on keeping drunk drivers off the road.

Seat Belt Use:
Love 'em or hate 'em, the laws of the State of New Mexico require seat belt use. Statistics show that seat belt use saves lives and keep people alive in accidents. Enforcement officers are on the look out for seat belts. Drivers who do not wear seat belts are subject to a fine and up to two points on their driving record.

Reckless Driving:
Speeding or driving recklessly is always a bad idea, but a driver who does so in New Mexico during the 100 Days and Nights of Summer campaign is really asking for a ticket. Officers will be using radar and will be looking for unsafe or aggressive driving over the summer.

CoopsAreOpen.com is the only comprehensive online resource for over 1100 truck weigh stations and scales as well as state DOT weight regulations and policies. Knowledge of the varying policies and the ability to manage or avoid most weigh stations can save truckers thousands of dollars in ticket fines. For further information, contact Suzanne at information@coopsareopen.com or view Truck Weigh Station, Scales and State DOT Information at http://www.CoopsAreOpen.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Roquemore

Suzanne Roquemore - EzineArticles Expert Author

Posted in: Trucking Life, Trucking Rules.
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Fuel Theft is on the Rise – 7 Tips For Truckers

Sep 26th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
No comments yet

Suzanne Roquemore

Fuel theft has always been a concern in the trucking industry. But with average fuel prices on the verge of breaking the $5 per gallon mark, it's becoming an epidemic. High fuel prices are putting a squeeze on truckers, and some of them are getting desperate. Some are considering stealing fuel from other drivers for use in their own trucks. Others are considering stealing fuel in order to sell it to truckers who want to pay less. Either way, truck owners are getting nervous about the go-go juice.

1. Buy locking fuel caps and use them.
There is no guarantee that another driver's key won't fit in your lock, but fuel thieves are interested in easy access. They don't have a guarantee that their key is going to fit, so they are more likely to target unprotected fuel caps.

2. Don't leave the fuel pump unattended when you are fueling.
It's easy for a driver to pull up in the island on either side of you and slip your hose into his tank. If you run inside to use the rest room or buy something while the pump is active, you're susceptible. A driver may see you walk inside and post a look out to let him know when you're returning so he can put the hose back in your tank. He pulls away, and you're stuck paying the bill. Most fuel islands are under surveillance, so, if you suspect you're a victim, contact the authorities immediately.

3. Don't leave your truck unattended if you have full tanks.
If you just filled up, you're a target. Whether a thief watches you pull off the fuel island and park or whether a thief simply lucks out and picks a truck with full tanks, you're the one losing out. If your tanks are full, you've got more to lose. If your tanks are low, they simply aren't going to be able to get as much out of you. Guard your fuel. Start filling up before you leave out rather than before you park.

4. Install a camera system on your truck.
Put decals on your tanks that are clearly visible "you are under video surveillance." Your best protection is to have a record of the goings on around your truck. If someone steals from you, you have proof. And a would be thief will think twice before stealing from a truck that may be recording his every move.

5. Park in well lit, high traffic areas whenever possible.
Fuel thieves don't want to be seen. They want to slink around unnoticed. They don't want to be in the front row with truckers walking by on their way in and out of the truck stop. They prefer the back corner of the truck stop where few people are likely to witness the theft. And they may be more likely to strike at night.

6. Be part of the Solution
Watch out for other truck owners- if you see someone siphoning fuel from a truck, call the police. We're all out here doing the same job- that could be your truck just as easily as it's someone else's. If you see another truck owner being robbed of fuel, snap a picture, write down the offenders description (height, weight, color, clothing, any descriptive detail that may help identify him), write down the description of the offenders car if it's visible, call the police, call the truck stop, call security if possible.

7. Don't be part of the problem.
Don't buy fuel from company drivers who are selling the truck owner's fuel. It's tempting, but it's theft. If the fuel does not belong to the person selling it, it's theft. Don't contribute to someone else's loss. It's no different from opening up someone else's fuel tank, putting a siphon hose inside, getting on the c.b. radio and saying, "sold to the highest bidder."

CoopsAreOpen.com is the only comprehensive online resource for over 1100 truck weigh stations and scales as well as state DOT weight regulations and policies. Knowledge of the varying policies and the ability to manage or avoid most weigh stations can save truckers thousands of dollars in ticket fines. For further information, contact Suzanne at information@coopsareopen.com or view Truck Weigh Station, Scales and State DOT Information at http://www.CoopsAreOpen.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Roquemore

Suzanne Roquemore - EzineArticles Expert Author

Posted in: Trucking Life.
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2290 Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax – What is It? How Much is It? and Who Needs to Pay?

Sep 25th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
169 comments

Suzanne Roquemore

The 2290 Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax is a $550 federal excise tax that must be paid on all vehicles that weigh 55,000 lbs or more and operate on public highways. The reporting period is from July 1st in any given year to June 30 the next year. The tax bill that is currently due is for the reporting period of July 1st, 2008, through June 30, 2009. If the vehicle will not put on more than 5,000 miles in the coming year (or, if it is agricultural, if it won't put on more than 7,500 miles in the year), the $550 payment isn't required, but you still must file form 2290.

Unless you are a new owner operator, you should have received form 2990 in the mail. You'll need to read through the instructions, fill out the form, and mail it in by August 31st with payment.

If you bought a truck before July, 2008, you need to be sure the 2290 was paid for the months you were driving it prior to July. Trust us, the IRS will find out if the tax wasn't paid and they will require you to pay the owed tax, plus penalties and interest.

You will need:
Your VIN (vehicle identification number), your EIN (employer identification number). The IRS does not accept your social security number for identification purposes on form 2290.

Who must file?
Whether you are leasing or buying a truck, you are responsible for filing and paying the 2290 Heavy Use Tax. If the vehicle is registered to you, you'd better be sure the tax is taken care of! If you bought a used truck, you are only required to pay the tax for the time period after you took possession of the truck- the former owner is required to pay the tax for the months prior to selling it to you. If, however, the former owner didn't pay, the IRS expects you to pay the full amount owed.

When to file:
If you used the truck during July, 2008, then the tax is due August 31st. If you didn't use the truck until August, 2008, then the tax is due September 30th. And so on. The tax is due the last day of the month after the truck hits the road. If the truck is not in use for the full tax period, you will not have to pay the full $550. Page 10 of the 2290 Instructions shows a sliding payment schedule.

Amount to pay:
Amounts shown are for trucks with a taxable gross weight of 75,000 or more that are not classified as logging vehicles. If you will use the truck for the full 12 months, you will pay $550. If the truck is was used starting July, 2008, you must pay the full $550. If you will be selling the truck or will, for whatever reason, not have the truck in use for the full tax period, you still have to pay the $550, but you can request a refund. It used to be that once you paid your 2290 for the coming year, your money was gone. If you sold the truck, you were still out the $550, and, if you didn't provide the buyer with proof of the 2290 being paid, the buyer would have to file and pay a pro-rated 2290. One recent change to the 2290, is that if you sell your truck or if it is destroyed or stolen (unless it is recoverd and put back into use during the tax period), you can file for a tax credit. You can't claim a higher credit than what you paid when you filed the form. If you wish to file for a credit, you must fill out form 8849 (Claim for Refund on Excise Taxes) and Schedule 6 (Other Claims).

The amount you must pay is as follows:
If the truck was first in use in July, 2008: $550 due August 31.
If the truck was first in use in August, 2008: $504.17 due September 30.
If the truck will first be in use in September, 2008: $458.33 due October 31.
If the truck will first be in use in October, 2008: $412.50 due November 30.
If the truck will first be in use in November, 2008: $366.67 due December 31.
If the truck will first be in use in December, 2008: $320.83 due January 31.
If the truck will first be in use in January, 2009: $275.00 due February 29.
If the truck will first be in use in February, 2009: $229.17 due March 31.
If the truck will first be in use in March, 2009: $183.33 due April 30.
If the truck will first be in use in April, 2009: $137.50 due May 31.
If the truck will first be in use in May, 2009: $91.67 due June 30.
If the truck will first be in use in June, 2009: $45.83 due July 31.
After that, you will be in the 2009 2290 tax reporting period.

Things to remember:
DON'T FORGET TO PUT YOUR FULL VIN ON SCHEDULE 1 (Form 2290)!
If you file by mail, make copies of the form and the check you send to keep for your records.
You will need to have proof of 2290 payment in order to keep your truck registration current.

If you need help filling out the form, you can call the IRS 2290 Call Site toll free from the US at 866-699-4096. From Canada or Mexico, call 859-669-5733 (not a free call). You can also stop in at your local IRS office for assistance.

Form 2290
Instructions for Form 2290

CoopsAreOpen.com is the only comprehensive online resource for over 1100 truck weigh stations and scales as well as state DOT weight regulations and policies. Knowledge of the varying policies and the ability to manage or avoid most weigh stations can save truckers thousands of dollars in ticket fines.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Roquemore

Suzanne Roquemore - EzineArticles Expert Author

Posted in: Trucking Rules.
Tagged: · ·

The Language Barrier and Trucking

Sep 24th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
1 comment

Suzanne Roquemore

There is no official language in the United States. But, for truckers, understanding the English language is a requirement. Some states do allow parts of the commercial driver's license examination to be taken in a language other than English, but all applicants for a commercial driver's license are required to be able to communicate in English. Period.

With all the talk about Mexican truckers coming over the border, this requirement to be able to communicate in English could come to the forefront of trucking news in the near future. But French-speaking truckers from Canada, Arabic-speaking truckers from the Middle East and Polish-speaking truckers from Europe (as well as those from other European countries who speak a variety of languages) have also had to comply with the English-speaking requirement.

Not all states require that the written CDL test be taken in English. Their logic is that drivers must be able to communicate in English on a basic level- to understand road signs and to understand and follow instructions from law enforcement officers, but they don't need to understand English well enough to pass the written test. For instance, a driver doesn't need to understand English in order to understand how the air brake system works and a driver doesn't need to understand English in order to know how to perform a pre-trip inspection. For the more in-depth concepts tested in the written exam, they allow drivers to rely on their native tongue.

But for real-life, on the road situations, English is required. And if a driver cannot communicate with law enforcement officers, he or she may very well receive a ticket. The AP recently reported a story about trucker Manuel Castillo who received a $500 fine for poor English communication skills while traveling through Alabama. He's not alone.

This requirement is understandable. After all, the vast majority of Americans speak English as their primary language, and many more speak English as their second language. According to Ethnologue there are more than 6,900 spoken languages in the world today. You cannot reasonably expect law enforcement officers across the country to learn every foreign language out there. Even requiring them to learn to most common ones among foreign truckers- take, for example, Spanish, French, Polish and Arabic- would require massive resources and time. Not to mention the cost of translating the road signs across the United States.

The rules regarding the English language requirements can be reviewed by checking with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).

According to 398.3 (c)(4), one of the requirements for becoming a commercial vehicle driver is "knowledge of English. Every driver shall be able to read and speak the English language sufficiently to understand highway traffic signs and signals and directions given in English and to respond to official inquiries."

According to 391.11 (b)(2), one of the qualifications for becoming a truck driver is that the driver "can read and speak the English language sufficiently to converse with the general public, to understand highway traffic signs and signals in the English language, to respond to official inquiries, and to make entries on reports and records."

CoopsAreOpen.com is the only comprehensive online resource for over 1100 truck weigh stations and scales as well as state DOT weight regulations and policies. Knowledge of the varying policies and the ability to manage or avoid most weigh stations can save truckers thousands of dollars in ticket fines.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Roquemore

Suzanne Roquemore - EzineArticles Expert Author

Posted in: Trucking Life.
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CVSA Inspections – 7 Inspection Levels Explained

Sep 23rd, 2010
by Guest Writer.
59 comments

Suzanne Roquemore

You'll often hear truckers throwing around terms like "Level I Inspection" or saying something like "He gave me a Level III." But many truckers don't know what the various levels of inspections are or what is involved when an officer performs them. The CVSA (Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance) is an international organization. It is made up of motor carrier safety officials at local, state and Federal levels as well as trucking industry representatives in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Generally, drivers need only concern themselves with Level I, Level II, Level III, and Level VI inspections.

Here is a quick, concise guide to CVSA inspection levels.

Level I- North American Standard Inspection

Paperwork: driver's license, medical card (medical examiner's certificate/DOT physical), log book, vehicle inspection reports, and Skill Performance Evaluation Certificates if applicable.

Driver: seat belt use, alcohol and drugs

Vehicle: brake systems, exhaust systems, fuel systems, electrical systems (cables and batteries), steering mechanisms, frames, suspensions, tires, wheels, rims, hubs, lighting (head lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, brake lights, tail lights), coupling devices (if trailer is present), load securement, condition of trailer bodies (if present), windshield wipers, and emergency exits. If the load contains Hazardous Materials, a Haz-Mat officer will inspect Haz-Mat items.

Level II- Walk Around and Paperwork

The inspector performs a Level I inspection with the exception that, in the walk around inspection, the inspector is unlikely to examine anything that requires getting under the vehicle.

Level III- Paperwork Only

Paperwork: driver's license, medical card (medical examiner's certificate/DOT physical), log book, vehicle inspection reports, and Skill Performance Evaluation Certificates if applicable.

Driver: seat belt use, alcohol and drugs

Level IV- Special Inspections

These inspections are usually part of a study to determine if a particular trend is occurring. Inspections are generally made of just one item or aspect.

Level V- Vehicle Only

The driver is not present for this inspection; driver related items are not inspected.

Vehicle: brake systems, exhaust systems, fuel systems, electrical systems (cables and batteries), steering mechanisms, frames, suspensions, tires, wheels, rims, hubs, lighting (head lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, brake lights, tail lights), coupling devices (if trailer is present), load securement, condition of trailer bodies (if present), windshield wipers, and emergency exits. If the load contains Hazardous Materials, a Haz-Mat officer will inspect Haz-Mat items.

Level VI- North American Standard Inspection for Transuranic Waste and Highway route Controlled Quantities of Radioactive Materials

Inspectors perform a Level I inspection. In addition, inspectors ensure that radiological requirements and Transuranic Waste and Highway route Controlled Quantities of Radioactive Materials requirements are met.

Level VII- Jurisdictional Mandated Commercial Vehicle Inspection

Other inspection programs that are required by various jurisdictions for the inspection of, for example, limousines and school buses. No CVSA decal is issued for a Level VII inspection.

CoopsAreOpen.com is the only comprehensive online resource for over 1100 truck weigh stations and scales as well as state DOT weight regulations and policies. Knowledge of the varying policies and the ability to manage or avoid most weigh stations can save truckers thousands of dollars in ticket fines.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Roquemore

Suzanne Roquemore - EzineArticles Expert Author

Posted in: Trucking Rules.
Tagged: · · · ·

There’s Something About Trucking

Sep 22nd, 2010
by Guest Writer.
107 comments

Suzanne Roquemore

There's just something about trucking that you don't find in other fields.

There's camaraderie. Some would argue, with validity, that in recent years, that feeling of "us" has dissipated. But there's still an "us" in the trucking world that an outsider just doesn't get to see. We're all out here doing the same job- trucking, flat bedding, car hauling. Essentially, all kinds of truckers are out here traveling, away from our homes and families, and rarely appreciated for what we do. You may hear two truckers arguing on the c. b. radio and threatening to fight, but, as the trucker stories go, those two are likely to get out of their trucks in a rage and wind up headed in to the truck stop restaurant to grab a meal together. Some of the things that make trucking special are our language, our way of acknowledging one another, the code we live by, and our appreciation of common courtesies.

We truckers have a language. Sure, computer programmers and physicians have their own language, but you can read up on and study those topics to learn the lingo. In trucking, to learn the lingo, you have to live the life. The words aren't everything; it's the way they are said and the depth of their meaning- and all the jokes and humor that go with them. C'mon beek!

We truckers have a way of acknowledging one another. When we pass by each other, we give a wave- whether it's one truck passing a slower truck, or two trucks headed different directions on a two lane road. The wave isn't excited or even particularly friendly- it's just an acknowledgment. We've also got a nod. When we walk by one another, whether it's at a truck stop or in the parking lot, we'll nod. Just like the wave, it's an acknowledgment. It's a way of saying hello to a fellow driver.

We truckers also have a code we live by. If you belong there, you're likely to be safe at the truck stop. That doesn't mean you shouldn't lock your doors or pay attention to your surroundings. But the truckers aren't the ones you should be afraid of if you're walking through the parking lot on your way to the truck stop. And the truckers are the ones you can count on if you do find yourself in a dangerous situation. If you've got your hood up, your tools out, grease on your hands and a frustrated look on your face, another trucker is likely to offer a hand. And if we see someone trying to break into your truck, we're likely to put a stop light on the thief or step in and put a stop to it.

We truckers appreciate courtesy. If you're patient and paying attention, truckers will be more courteous on the road. If you continually try to pass, flash your lights to tell the trucker to "get over" when he's trying to pass, or drive without regard to safety, the trucker is going to make some assumptions about you- whether you're in a car or another truck. And those assumptions are not going to inspire him to let you get on by. But if you see a trucker's turn signal and flash your lights (off and on, don't use your brights) to let him over, or if you move over a lane to make room when the trucker needs to merge onto the freeway, or if you stay back when you know the trucker is going to have to swing wide to make a turn, that trucker is more likely to extend courtesy to you, too.

CoopsAreOpen.com is the only comprehensive online resource for over 1100 truck weigh stations and scales as well as state DOT weight regulations and policies. Knowledge of the varying policies and the ability to manage or avoid most weigh stations can save truckers thousands of dollars in ticket fines. For further information, contact Suzanne at information@coopsareopen.com or view Truck Weigh Station, Scales and State DOT Information at http://www.CoopsAreOpen.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Roquemore

Suzanne Roquemore - EzineArticles Expert Author

Posted in: Trucking Life.
Tagged: · · · · · ·

Where You Can Idle and Where You Can’t – Part I

Sep 22nd, 2010
by Guest Writer.
No comments yet

Suzanne Roquemore

These days, engine idling is on most truckers' minds. Some have taken it upon themselves to save fuel while others take offense to the idea that they can't idle their trucks at their own discretion. Truckers these days have more options than they did in the old days. More and more trucks are equipped with idling reduction technology- Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) and Fuel Operated Heaters (FOHs), for example. And, though there are flaws in its implementation, there is also the option of using Idleaire technology at some truck stops. Idleaire provides climate control and power to trucks parked in designated truck stop parking spots. There are pros and cons to all these options.

In Part I of this series, we'll explain the idling rules in Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, and Georgia.

Arizona: Only Maricopa County in Arizona has current idling restrictions (Maricopa County encompasses the metropolitan areas around Phoenix).
Maximum Idling Time: 5 minutes.
Exceptions: Traffic or adverse weather conditions, emergency or law enforcement reasons, use of a power take off for work purposes, conforming to manufacturer's specifications, maintenance or diagnostics, hours of service compliance.
Fines: First offense- $100, second offense (or more)- $300.

California: California idling laws are added to by two the city of Sacramento and by Placer County (Lake Tahoe area). If the truck engine is a year 2007 or newer, FOH operation is not allowed. If the truck engine is 2006 or older, use of an APU or other certified idling reduction technology is allowed. California has many restrictions and requirements for APUs and other idling reduction technology.
Maximum Idling Time: 5 minutes for both the engine and any APU if parked within 100 feet of a restricted area (residential etc).
Exceptions: Traffic conditions, adverse weather conditions, mechanical problems, vehicle safety inspections (where idling the engine is necessary to check for safe operation of items), service or repair to equipment, power take off for work purposes, prevention of a safety or health emergency.

City of Sacramento Additional Exceptions: Conforming to manufacturer's specifications, hours of service compliance if the truck is parked at a truck stop or rest area.
City of Sacramento Additional Restrictions: Refrigeration units (Thermoking, Carrier, etc) are not allowed to be run within 100 feet of residential areas or schools unless loading or unloading.

Placer County Additional Exceptions: Conforming to manufacturer's specifications, operation of intermittent equipment, hours of service compliance if the truck is parked at a truck stop or rest area.

Placer County Additional Restrictions: Refrigeration units (Thermoking, Carrier, etc) are not allowed to be run within 1000 feet of residential areas or schools unless loading or unloading (30 minutes allowed for waiting).
Fines: Minimum fine of $300.
Additional Fine Info City of Sacramento: Fines will not be less than $100, nor more than $25,000 per violation.
Additional Fine Info Placer County: Minimum fine of $50.

Colorado: The city of Aspen, Colorado City and Denver County have idling restrictions.
Maximum Idling Time- Aspen: 5 minutes in any 1 hour period.
Maximum Idling Time- Colorado City/Denver County: 10 minutes in any 1 hour period.
Exceptions- Aspen: To achieve an engine temperature of 120 degrees and/or air pressure of 100 lbs. Buses are allowed to idle while loading or unloading passengers in addition to the 5 minute maximium.
Exceptions- Colorado City/Denver County: If the outside air temperature has been less than 20 degrees (F) for 24 hours or if the air temperature is less than 10 degrees (F), if traffic conditions warrant idling, if the vehicle is being serviced.
Fines- Aspen: Maximum of $1,000 and/or 1 year imprisonment
Fines- Colorado City/Denver County: Not less than $999 and/or 1 year imprisonment.

Connecticut:
Maximum Idling Time: 3 minutes
Exceptions: Traffic conditions, mechanical difficulties, conforming to manufacturer's specifications, if the outside air temperature is less than 20 degrees (F), maintenance.
Fines: Not more than $5,000 per week.

Delaware:
Maximum Idling Time: 3 minutes, 15 minutes if outside air temperature is between 32 degrees (F) and -10 degrees (F), no limit if outside air temperature is less than -10 degrees (F).
Exceptions: Traffic conditions, mechanical difficulties, conforming to manufacturer's specifications, repairs, using a power take off, to provide power while sleeping or resting if there is no truck stop with electrical power provided within 25 miles, safety inspections.
Fines: From $50 to $500 per offense.

District of Columbia:
Maximum Idling Time: 3 minutes, 5 minutes if outside air temperature is less than 32 degrees (F).
Exceptions: Using a power take off
Fines: Undetermined

Florida: Florida's idling restrictions go into effect December 15, 2008.
Maximum Idling Time: 5 minutes
Exceptions: Traffic conditions, vehicle safety inspection (pre-trip), work related idling, to provide heat or air conditioning in order to prevent a safety or health related emergency (but not for the sole purpose of driver comfort), to provide power while sleeping or resting in the sleeper berth (this exemption is slated to expire in September of 2013).
Fines: Undetermined

Georgia: The state of Georgia is still determining their idling standards but the City of Atlanta does enforce idling restrictions. Georgia plans to adopt anti-idling legislation to be enforced starting May 2009.
Maximum Idling time- Atlanta: 15 minutes, 25 minutes if the outside air temperature is less than 32 degrees (F).
Proposed Exceptions: Repair, maintenance, using a power take of for work purposes.
Exceptions- Atlanta: To perform work-related duties, traffic conditions.
Fines: Minimum $500

This information was compiled from various sources including state and local legal codes and the ATRI.

Although we go to great lengths to make sure our information is accurate and useful, we recommend you consult enforcement officials and/or a lawyer if you want professional assurance that our information, and your interpretation of it, is appropriate to your particular situation.

CoopsAreOpen.com is the only comprehensive online resource for over 1100 truck weigh stations and scales as well as state DOT weight regulations and policies. Knowledge of the varying policies and the ability to manage or avoid most weigh stations can save truckers thousands of dollars in ticket fines. For further information, contact Suzanne at information@coopsareopen.com or click any of these links to view Truck Weigh Station, Scales and State DOT Information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Roquemore

Suzanne Roquemore - EzineArticles Expert Author

Posted in: Trucking Rules.
Tagged: · ·

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