| It isn't always easy out there. Bad roads, bad traffic, bad loads, bad regulations, bad regulators, bad drivers, and bad luck can all go against you! Making it all work is a whole lot of work - it takes a professional, and it takes a sense of humor! To stay professional, and to keep a smile, sometimes you just need to pull into a Truck Stop, rest and refuel. |
| Whenever you like, pull in here to tank up on industry trends, regulatory information, and a lighter look at life. |
| You can check below to find short notes on laws, proposed laws, industry developments, and other bits and pieces that may affect you if you own or use trucks in your business. The information you see here comes from a variety of sources, including newspapers and magazines, industry groups, trucking associations, manufacturers, government agencies, and others. We try to get it right, but we don't know if they got it right, so please don't rely on what you find here by itself. In other words, we are not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of information shown here. We intend to provide short "bullets" of information, and won't be including much detail. If you see something of interest to you, we encourage you to check out the information and go after "the rest of the story" from its source. |
| We invite you to also visit Light Loads, where we take a minute to have a well-intentioned laugh at ourselves (and maybe at a few others, as well). |
| Go to Resources to find links to other sites. As time goes by, we'll try to provide you with links to sites that we believe could be helpful. Naturally, we can't vouch for the content or accuracy of other sites; please exercise judgement when relying on sites you're not familiar with. |
| TRUCK STOP BULLETIN BOARD |
CAUTION....... WARNING.......... It is illegal to operate a tandem axle trailer equipped with a single axle dump valve operated from the truck, unless the truck and trailer are equipped so that the dump valve CANNOT be operated at speeds of 10 mph or more.
TEXAS allows idling to power a heater or air conditioner during mandated rest periods.
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CALIFORNIA will include engine emissions stickers as part of its roadside inspections, with a minimum 300 dollar fine
CALIFORNIA again. Using your sleeper for rest or sleep is no longer exempt from the 5 minute idling rule. |
OKLAHOMA will build 9 new inspection stations that will weigh trucks without stopping.FONT>
PENNSYLVANIA has closed some truck parking on the turnpike for renovations. Parking may be limited until improvements are complete in 2011. |
MISSOURI requires lights on anytime wipers are in use. Fine for failure to comply.
CANADIAN securement rules now mirror those that the U.S. has had in effect since Jan, 2004. |
INDIANA is enforcing a state prohibition against semi-truck parking on interstate shoulders and ramps.
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MAINE prohibits heavy duty trucks in the left lane of its three lane highways.
DC can fine drivers up to 100 dollars for cell phone or pager use while driving. Reading, writing, personal grooming and playing with pets can also be fined.
IOWA DOT is issuing tickets for tinted windows and radar detectors. |
| All trailers do require conspicuity tape. This affects the value of older trailers... be careful when you buy or trade! |
New Jersey enforces the ban on trucks in the left lane on Route 17. |
KANSAS has made it illegal to operate a jake brake without a proper muffler.
WYOMING Call ahead for overwidth/height/weight load permits. You need permits BEFORE entering the state. You can call 307-777-4376. |
SOUTH DAKOTA. Dial 511 for current road and weather info.
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| MICHIGAN HazMat violations will result in arrest, fingerprinting, and up to a year in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both! |
