Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Yeah, I hear you. We had a major washout on the highway to our cottage a couple of years back and I am sure it never got more than a couple of feet deep. A beaver dam let go and logs and such washed down a hill and accross the highway into the lake. It wouldn't have lasted long but it was a good thing there was no one in that spot at the time. It took out the pavement and left quite a hole. Randy B -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of David Brodbeck Sent: Thursday, February 02, 2006 9:34 AM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues R A Bennell wrote: > Two Words - Diesel and Snorkel > If you try to cross five feet of running water I guarantee you'll be on the evening news, snorkel or no. If the water's moving fast it only takes a couple of feet to sweep a truck downstream. Water is dense stuff. ___ http://www.striplin.net For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
R A Bennell wrote: Two Words - Diesel and Snorkel If you try to cross five feet of running water I guarantee you'll be on the evening news, snorkel or no. If the water's moving fast it only takes a couple of feet to sweep a truck downstream. Water is dense stuff.
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Two Words - Diesel and Snorkel Randy B -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of lee Sent: Wednesday, February 01, 2006 5:43 PM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues On Wednesday 01 February 2006 5:51, Kaleb C. Striplin wrote: > so lets here some of those idiot 4 wheeler driver stories. I always > love those. I think anyone living in the Sonoran desert basin of Arizona has a few- we see 'em in the news constantly. When it rains hard in the desert around Phoenix and Tucson during the monsoons, there are any number of washes which cross major roads and which become impassable, raging torrents of water as much as five or six feet deep. Invariably, some weenie thinks "I can cross that, I've got a FOUR WHEEL DRIVE!" Generally, you get to see the weenie on the six o'clock news, standing on the roof of his submerged SUV, waving arms frantically at the rescue helicopter overhead. Apparently, some folks don't realize that a four wheel drive is not a submarine. Maybe they forgot that the cute propeller thingie on their trailer hitch is just for looks... The best is when they show a picture of the vehicle and it is clearly just a few yards up or downstream from another four-wheel-drive which got stuck trying the same thing. Lee ___ http://www.striplin.net For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
yep John Berryman wrote: On Wednesday, February 1, 2006, at 11:04 PM, OK Don wrote: A direct result of drug testing. Its affected many other industries too. Johnny B. There are a plethora of great workers from all walks of life that use drugs recreationally ie: not high on the job. A study shows that they either fear the results of a failed test or consider it an invasion of privacy and they won't even apply for the job. This same study also showed using insurance Co statistics that since widespread drug testing has been implemented the workplace has become no safer, in fact, perhaps by coincidence job related loss claims have increased. It was also speculated that all the lawyers running around screaming sue everybody have fueled the increased reports of job related accidents. Johnny B. I Mac Therefore I am ___ http://www.striplin.net For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net -- Kaleb C. Striplin/Claremore, OK 89 560SEL, 87 300SDL, 85 380SE, 85 300D, 84 250 LWB, 83 300TD, 81 300TD, 81 240D, 81 240D, 76 450SEL, 76 240D, 76 300D, 74 240D, 69 250 http://www.striplin.net
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
On Wednesday, February 1, 2006, at 11:04 PM, OK Don wrote: A direct result of drug testing. Its affected many other industries too. Johnny B. There are a plethora of great workers from all walks of life that use drugs recreationally ie: not high on the job. A study shows that they either fear the results of a failed test or consider it an invasion of privacy and they won't even apply for the job. This same study also showed using insurance Co statistics that since widespread drug testing has been implemented the workplace has become no safer, in fact, perhaps by coincidence job related loss claims have increased. It was also speculated that all the lawyers running around screaming sue everybody have fueled the increased reports of job related accidents. Johnny B. I Mac Therefore I am
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
On Wednesday, February 1, 2006, at 09:15 PM, Tom Scordato wrote: Then why aremany of them still maniacs? Bad upbringing? Johnny B. I Mac Therefore I am
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Huh? - Please explain. I don't see the relationship --- > A direct result of drug testing. Its affected many other industries > too. > > > Johnny B. -- OK Don, KD5NRO Norman, OK '90 300D 243K, Rattled '87 300SDL 290K, Limo Lite, or blue car '81 240D 173K, Gramps, or yellow car '78 450SLC 67K, brown car '97 Ply Grand Voyager 78K Van Go
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Oh yea, I was going to mention the technology is out there to control the trucks ECM through the satellite. Commands can be sent (like shut down at next stop), read engine codes, and many other goodies. On Wed, 01 Feb 2006 21:20:28 -0600, Luther Gulseth <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Well said Kaleb. The trucks I maintain haul parts for Nissan, Toyota, Honda, Chrysler, US Mail, and other high priority (JIT) freight. Many times our trailer is live loaded/unloaded (mostly Toyota) onto the assembly line and other times it sits less than 4 hours before parts are used on the assembly line. Life's extremely exciting when one of these trucks breaks down. I'm the only maintenance person who can get tires changed "NASCAR style" and other trucks pulled out of the shop by a forklift to repair mine. Damnit, I love the power that gives me. :D There are also 15-20 drivers I manage who easily make 100-130k a year and are home 2 nights/days a week. They make 3-4 times my salary and I tell them what to do. -- Luther KB5QHU Alma, Ark '83 300SD (231,xxx kmi) '82 300CD (158,xxx kmi) '90 300E & '82 300D (parts or run?)
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Well said Kaleb. The trucks I maintain haul parts for Nissan, Toyota, Honda, Chrysler, US Mail, and other high priority (JIT) freight. Many times our trailer is live loaded/unloaded (mostly Toyota) onto the assembly line and other times it sits less than 4 hours before parts are used on the assembly line. Life's extremely exciting when one of these trucks breaks down. I'm the only maintenance person who can get tires changed "NASCAR style" and other trucks pulled out of the shop by a forklift to repair mine. Damnit, I love the power that gives me. :D There are also 15-20 drivers I manage who easily make 100-130k a year and are home 2 nights/days a week. They make 3-4 times my salary and I tell them what to do. On Wed, 01 Feb 2006 19:00:30 -0600, Kaleb C. Striplin <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Some truckers already make that kind of money, my dads neighbor makes more than that. They already have sat tracking and can monitor speeds etc, luther can probably tell you about that. What is lower speeds going to do? Its a proven fact that lower speeds cause MORE wrecks because people get too bored and relaxed and such slow speeds. Some areas raised their speeds to something like 80 (out in tx somewhere I think) and it LOWERED accidents quite a bit. And as for people can wait longer for the load to get there, BT, WRONG. The way it is now the semi truck IS the warehouse, warehouses on wheels. Everything is so dependant on when stuff arrives we as a country would be screwed if something happened to stop ontime delivery. Its not like the old days where you had many a months, or weeks supplies of stuff at any particular location, everying is received just "in time". In other words, just as a business, store, or whatever is running out of something is when the truck arrives. -- Luther KB5QHU Alma, Ark '83 300SD (231,xxx kmi) '82 300CD (158,xxx kmi) '90 300E & '82 300D (parts or run?)
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
On Wednesday, February 1, 2006, at 02:14 PM, Gary Hurst wrote: I am more than a little dismayed at the demise of the quality of the professional truck driver. not long ago, the big rig driver would often be an exemplar for safe and courteous driving. today, trucks scare me more than drunks. A direct result of drug testing. Its affected many other industries too. Johnny B. I Mac Therefore I am
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
thanks John. I seems the things I suggested are in for the most part in affect. Then why aremany of them still maniacs? Are they just trying to get home earlier? One maniac with 100,000 lbs is too many. Regards Tom - Original Message - From: "John Berryman" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Mercedes Discussion List" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Wednesday, February 01, 2006 2:57 PM Subject: Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues On Wednesday, February 1, 2006, at 01:37 PM, Tom Scordato wrote: John to answer your question no I would not mind paying more. I know I would. You would too , you're just caught up in the moment. We are the most spoiled society on earth when it comes to that. We're spoiled in almost every aspect. (except automotive lighting) And Trucks do not need to cost a million bucks here are a few more thoughts that might work, heck maybe they are being tried allready. A) pay truckers a decent salary (may I suggest 75,000 to 100K ? a year plus benefits factor in inflation) to be away from their families, not piece meal $ for mile that is only asking for trouble. This would include salary minimums for independents as well as company truckers Some do make money like that and that's the life of a trucker. B) limit, monitors and track speeds with engine electronic and confirm of trucks via satellite or some other method. All this has been done for years and it is increasing. C) brain and education, psycho test, similar to getting a merchant marine cost guard license, nuclear operators license or other licensed positions renewable every five years. These are to be real strict. Try to weed out the chaff. Getting a CDL requires training and testing. Commercial drivers are faced with stiffer penalties and can loose there license for way fewer infractions than a common operator. D) people and the industry can wait the extra three to five days (?) the lower speed limits would entail, no one is going to melt because of it. We survived when it took trains three weeks to deliver something. Matter of fact we actually manufactured things back then stuff the whole world including us purchased. The rest of the world has been accustomed to speedy service and its the customer that inevitably sets the standard. i doubt the general public wants to wait any longer. For some next-day is too slow. E) weigh stations especially in the northeast (which are rarely open) would be required to be open allot more often (50%) of the time. Spot truck safety checks. The fact that they exist and could be open dictates that they drive safe trucks and haul safe loads. If you drove professionally, you'd think that there are too many open too much. In a lot of locales, they employ a system that takes info electronically and truck just have to pass under the sensors. This can only be used by those that meet all the requirements. Other trucks must pull into the weigh stations. F) satellite tracking of speed and movement to determine and limit speed and number of hours truck operators are on the road In effect for a long time. G) mandatory drug testing for uppers and downers Same as above. Long time. H) major bonuses for operators with a clean record who do not drive aggressively, reward safety. Severely penalize truckers for accidents when they are at fault. Like loose your commercial license, never drive commercially again just like if you screw up on a merchant ship, they rip your coast guard license up. This is done. Insurance Cos give Safe Driver discounts and penalties otherwise to private individuals as well as commercial drivers and trucking companies. A CDL is a Federal License issued by the various states, believe me, they're plenty strict as they are. I) as an industry have a campain to educate the "four wheelers" to share in safety. Amen, but this should be done before a license is issued after a certain amount of infractions/accidents and periodically throughout the life of drivers. Re-Testing should be mandatory as well. Some states are re-testing seniors. This is a good thing. If you can't pass written and driving tests you pose a threat to fellow drivers, pedestrians and property and should not be allowed the privelage of a driver's license. Make it a profession again instead of what one person told me "it was prison for me or trucking". Please do not compare trucks with cars by saying they should entail the same standards. 99% of the folks driving cars are not professionals. Tuckers are supposed to be professionals, not cowboys. There is too much at stake. How many more rights do you want us to give up? The bad drivers obsolete themselves over time, many lose their license and drive any way but its near impossible to drive a truck unlicensed, thanks to the regs you hopefully now realize are in effect. Regards Tom Scordato Bellefonte PA Johnny B. I
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Kaleb C. Striplin wrote: not sure about annual, but yes, you have to have to pass DOT physical to get CDL Thanks. That's reassuring.
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Mitch Haley wrote: I first read that in a motorcycle magazine when I was a teenager. Having a preplanned strategy for "if this bozo tries to kill me" does work. When the other driver does try to kill me, my contingency plan is implemented faster than I can think. There's a related saying, in aviation, that "you should never let an airplane take you somewhere that your mind didn't get to five minutes ago." In driving our time horizons are measured in seconds instead of minutes, but we still need to plan ahead. For example, most people fail to consider their sight distance when setting their speed. What if that blind curve or that rise in the road hides a downed tree, a washout, or a stalled car? I learned this lesson as a young driver when I blasted around a curve at 60 mph and found a tractor on the other side doing 15 mph in my lane. Scared the crap out of me. Now I don't do that anymore.
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
lee wrote: > > Apparently, some folks don't realize that a four wheel drive is not a > submarine. You haven't seen the commercials for Jeep SUVs in recent years, have you? You can park those things completely under water, start them up and drive right out of the ocean. They don't even get wet inside.
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
not sure about annual, but yes, you have to have to pass DOT physical to get CDL David Brodbeck wrote: R A Bennell wrote: Recent article in our local paper says that the average age of truckers these days is climbing. Young people are not interested in the job and there is a shortage of drivers. Expect things to get worse before they get better. Does a CDL require an annual physical exam, like a pilot's license? It seems like it should for truckers carrying hazardous loads, at very least. There was recently an incident where I-5 was closed because a tank truck turned over after the driver had a heart attack. Fortunately he was able to guide the truck onto the shoulder before dying, or he wouldn't have been the only casualty. ___ http://www.striplin.net For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net -- Kaleb C. Striplin/Claremore, OK 89 560SEL, 87 300SDL, 85 380SE, 85 300D, 84 250 LWB, 83 300TD, 81 300TD, 81 240D, 81 240D, 76 450SEL, 76 240D, 76 300D, 74 240D, 69 250 http://www.striplin.net
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
On Wed, Feb 01, 2006 at 05:46:33PM -0800, David Brodbeck wrote: > R A Bennell wrote: > > Recent article in our local paper says that the average age of truckers > > these days is climbing. Young people are not interested in the job and there > > is a shortage of drivers. Expect things to get worse before they get better. > > Does a CDL require an annual physical exam, like a pilot's license? It > seems like it should for truckers carrying hazardous loads, at very > least. There was recently an incident where I-5 was closed because a > tank truck turned over after the driver had a heart attack. Fortunately > he was able to guide the truck onto the shoulder before dying, or he > wouldn't have been the only casualty. Think it's every two years in california. K
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
R A Bennell wrote: Recent article in our local paper says that the average age of truckers these days is climbing. Young people are not interested in the job and there is a shortage of drivers. Expect things to get worse before they get better. Does a CDL require an annual physical exam, like a pilot's license? It seems like it should for truckers carrying hazardous loads, at very least. There was recently an incident where I-5 was closed because a tank truck turned over after the driver had a heart attack. Fortunately he was able to guide the truck onto the shoulder before dying, or he wouldn't have been the only casualty.
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Kaleb C. Striplin wrote: Some truckers already make that kind of money, my dads neighbor makes more than that. They already have sat tracking and can monitor speeds etc, luther can probably tell you about that. What is lower speeds going to do? Its a proven fact that lower speeds cause MORE wrecks because people get too bored and relaxed and such slow speeds. The problem is the sheer physics involved. A truck going 80 mph has a tremendous stopping distance, even compared to a car at the same speed. There's the sheer weight involved, and the fact that semi braking systems aren't exactly state of the art -- compared to a car, they're pretty underbraked. (The coal trucking industry fought an anti-lock braking system mandate by pointing out that a loaded coal truck can't generate enough braking effort to lock its wheels! I also remember hearing about an accident where a truck took out a car that was stopped at the bottom of a hill waiting to turn left. The trucker was not issued a ticket because the police determined that, travelling at the speed limit, there was no way he could have seen the car in time to stop before hitting it -- once he crested the hill the car was already closer than his minimum stopping distance.)
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
On Wednesday 01 February 2006 5:51, Kaleb C. Striplin wrote: > so lets here some of those idiot 4 wheeler driver stories. I always > love those. I think anyone living in the Sonoran desert basin of Arizona has a few- we see 'em in the news constantly. When it rains hard in the desert around Phoenix and Tucson during the monsoons, there are any number of washes which cross major roads and which become impassable, raging torrents of water as much as five or six feet deep. Invariably, some weenie thinks "I can cross that, I've got a FOUR WHEEL DRIVE!" Generally, you get to see the weenie on the six o'clock news, standing on the roof of his submerged SUV, waving arms frantically at the rescue helicopter overhead. Apparently, some folks don't realize that a four wheel drive is not a submarine. Maybe they forgot that the cute propeller thingie on their trailer hitch is just for looks... The best is when they show a picture of the vehicle and it is clearly just a few yards up or downstream from another four-wheel-drive which got stuck trying the same thing. Lee
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
uhhh, California doesnt have much say so about it, its a national thing. Kevin wrote: On Wed, Feb 01, 2006 at 07:04:35PM -0600, Kaleb C. Striplin wrote: Yep, I had to take a pee test before I could even APPLY for my CDL. And yes, standards are WAY more strict. For example, its illegal to carry a firearm in a commercial vehicle with a CDL, even if you hold a conceal and carry permit. You can lose your license and go to jail immediatly. ODD, as that is not the case in california (of all places). Actually, you don't need a CCW to carry in an owner-operator rig in CA (and there's case law on that one). K ___ http://www.striplin.net For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net -- Kaleb C. Striplin/Claremore, OK 89 560SEL, 87 300SDL, 85 380SE, 85 300D, 84 250 LWB, 83 300TD, 81 300TD, 81 240D, 81 240D, 76 450SEL, 76 240D, 76 300D, 74 240D, 69 250 http://www.striplin.net
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
On Wed, Feb 01, 2006 at 07:04:35PM -0600, Kaleb C. Striplin wrote: > Yep, I had to take a pee test before I could even APPLY for my CDL. And > yes, standards are WAY more strict. For example, its illegal to carry a > firearm in a commercial vehicle with a CDL, even if you hold a conceal > and carry permit. You can lose your license and go to jail immediatly. ODD, as that is not the case in california (of all places). Actually, you don't need a CCW to carry in an owner-operator rig in CA (and there's case law on that one). K
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Yep, I had to take a pee test before I could even APPLY for my CDL. And yes, standards are WAY more strict. For example, its illegal to carry a firearm in a commercial vehicle with a CDL, even if you hold a conceal and carry permit. You can lose your license and go to jail immediatly. John Berryman wrote: On Wednesday, February 1, 2006, at 01:37 PM, Tom Scordato wrote: John to answer your question no I would not mind paying more. I know I would. You would too , you're just caught up in the moment. We are the most spoiled society on earth when it comes to that. We're spoiled in almost every aspect. (except automotive lighting) And Trucks do not need to cost a million bucks here are a few more thoughts that might work, heck maybe they are being tried allready. A) pay truckers a decent salary (may I suggest 75,000 to 100K ? a year plus benefits factor in inflation) to be away from their families, not piece meal $ for mile that is only asking for trouble. This would include salary minimums for independents as well as company truckers Some do make money like that and that's the life of a trucker. B) limit, monitors and track speeds with engine electronic and confirm of trucks via satellite or some other method. All this has been done for years and it is increasing. C) brain and education, psycho test, similar to getting a merchant marine cost guard license, nuclear operators license or other licensed positions renewable every five years. These are to be real strict. Try to weed out the chaff. Getting a CDL requires training and testing. Commercial drivers are faced with stiffer penalties and can loose there license for way fewer infractions than a common operator. D) people and the industry can wait the extra three to five days (?) the lower speed limits would entail, no one is going to melt because of it. We survived when it took trains three weeks to deliver something. Matter of fact we actually manufactured things back then stuff the whole world including us purchased. The rest of the world has been accustomed to speedy service and its the customer that inevitably sets the standard. i doubt the general public wants to wait any longer. For some next-day is too slow. E) weigh stations especially in the northeast (which are rarely open) would be required to be open allot more often (50%) of the time. Spot truck safety checks. The fact that they exist and could be open dictates that they drive safe trucks and haul safe loads. If you drove professionally, you'd think that there are too many open too much. In a lot of locales, they employ a system that takes info electronically and truck just have to pass under the sensors. This can only be used by those that meet all the requirements. Other trucks must pull into the weigh stations. F) satellite tracking of speed and movement to determine and limit speed and number of hours truck operators are on the road In effect for a long time. G) mandatory drug testing for uppers and downers Same as above. Long time. H) major bonuses for operators with a clean record who do not drive aggressively, reward safety. Severely penalize truckers for accidents when they are at fault. Like loose your commercial license, never drive commercially again just like if you screw up on a merchant ship, they rip your coast guard license up. This is done. Insurance Cos give Safe Driver discounts and penalties otherwise to private individuals as well as commercial drivers and trucking companies. A CDL is a Federal License issued by the various states, believe me, they're plenty strict as they are. I) as an industry have a campain to educate the "four wheelers" to share in safety. Amen, but this should be done before a license is issued after a certain amount of infractions/accidents and periodically throughout the life of drivers. Re-Testing should be mandatory as well. Some states are re-testing seniors. This is a good thing. If you can't pass written and driving tests you pose a threat to fellow drivers, pedestrians and property and should not be allowed the privelage of a driver's license. Make it a profession again instead of what one person told me "it was prison for me or trucking". Please do not compare trucks with cars by saying they should entail the same standards. 99% of the folks driving cars are not professionals. Tuckers are supposed to be professionals, not cowboys. There is too much at stake. How many more rights do you want us to give up? The bad drivers obsolete themselves over time, many lose their license and drive any way but its near impossible to drive a truck unlicensed, thanks to the regs you hopefully now realize are in effect. Regards Tom Scordato Bellefonte PA Johnny B. I Mac Therefore I am ___ http://www.striplin.net For new par
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Some truckers already make that kind of money, my dads neighbor makes more than that. They already have sat tracking and can monitor speeds etc, luther can probably tell you about that. What is lower speeds going to do? Its a proven fact that lower speeds cause MORE wrecks because people get too bored and relaxed and such slow speeds. Some areas raised their speeds to something like 80 (out in tx somewhere I think) and it LOWERED accidents quite a bit. And as for people can wait longer for the load to get there, BT, WRONG. The way it is now the semi truck IS the warehouse, warehouses on wheels. Everything is so dependant on when stuff arrives we as a country would be screwed if something happened to stop ontime delivery. Its not like the old days where you had many a months, or weeks supplies of stuff at any particular location, everying is received just "in time". In other words, just as a business, store, or whatever is running out of something is when the truck arrives. Tom Scordato wrote: John Berryman said "I guess you wouldn't mind paying a lot more for every thing you buy when trucks start costing more than a half million bucks. Note what fuel surcharges alone can do to the price of shipping. Maybe you should become a truck driver, it seems you might be more attentive than some already on the job. That's where the problem really exists, the human factor. Knowledge, skill, attitude, alertness and emotions all factor in and vary widely between individuals." John to answer your question no I would not mind paying more. We are the most spoiled society on earth when it comes to that. And Trucks do not need to cost a million bucks here are a few more thoughts that might work, heck maybe they are being tried allready. A) pay truckers a decent salary (may I suggest 75,000 to 100K ? a year plus benefits factor in inflation) to be away from their families, not piece meal $ for mile that is only asking for trouble. This would include salary minimums for independents as well as company truckers B) limit, monitors and track speeds with engine electronic and confirm of trucks via satellite or some other method. C) brain and education, psycho test, similar to getting a merchant marine cost guard license, nuclear operators license or other licensed positions renewable every five years. These are to be real strict. Try to weed out the chaff. D) people and the industry can wait the extra three to five days (?) the lower speed limits would entail, no one is going to melt because of it. We survived when it took trains three weeks to deliver something. Matter of fact we actually manufactured things back then stuff the whole world including us purchased. E) weigh stations especially in the northeast (which are rarely open) would be required to be open allot more often (50%) of the time. Spot truck safety checks. F) satellite tracking of speed and movement to determine and limit speed and number of hours truck operators are on the road G) mandatory drug testing for uppers and downers H) major bonuses for operators with a clean record who do not drive aggressively, reward safety. Severely penalize truckers for accidents when they are at fault. Like loose your commercial license, never drive commercially again just like if you screw up on a merchant ship, they rip your coast guard license up. I) as an industry have a campain to educate the "four wheelers" to share in safety. Make it a profession again instead of what one person told me "it was prison for me or trucking". Please do not compare trucks with cars by saying they should entail the same standards. 99% of the folks driving cars are not professionals. Tuckers are supposed to be professionals, not cowboys. There is too much at stake. Regards Tom Scordato Bellefonte PA - Original Message - From: "John Berryman" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Mercedes Discussion List" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Wednesday, February 01, 2006 11:32 AM Subject: Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues On Wednesday, February 1, 2006, at 06:34 AM, Tom Scordato wrote: An industry which should have the same safety standards as lets say the aerospace industry or maritime industry, is certainly lacking, big time, yet on a day by day basis affects as many if not more people. I guess you wouldn't mind paying a lot more for every thing you buy when trucks start costing more than a half million bucks. Note what fuel surcharges alone can do to the price of shipping. Maybe you should become a truck driver, it seems you might be more attentive than some already on the job. That's where the problem really exists, the human factor. Knowledge, skill, attitude, alertness and emotions all factor in and vary widely between individuals. Johnny B. I Mac Therefore I am _
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
so lets here some of those idiot 4 wheeler driver stories. I always love those. Robert M Doran wrote: I just had to say something here because, besides presently owning and driving a 115 and a 107 (...and the old 123--gone but not forgotten), I drive an 18-wheeler for a living most of the time and have done so for over 30 years. Foremost in my mind when I am approaching any situation on the road is the anticipation of what would be the most inappropriate (read: "stupid") thing that another driver could do and then plan what my reaction would be to it. I doubt if any of you guys on the list would believe me if I told you how often that's exactly what does happen. I'm not trying to say that truck drivers are blameless--in fact I've seen some real boneheads that should have not been allowed behind the wheel of any vehicle, let alone a truck--but some of the things I've seen 4-wheeler drivers do would simply blow you away! And I have to concede that it is probable that the sheer numbers of 4-wheelers in comparison to the numbers of trucks on the road blow what I've observed out of proportion somewhat. But still... In my years of operating these monsters my experiences have taught me to be a defensive driver above all else and, even though I am confident enough of my own driving abilities, I know that the beast I am herding down the road is much more difficult to maneuver than is my 115, for example, so I drive with that thought in mind and try to compensate in advance for upcoming traffic situations. Unfortunately, many (most?) 4-wheeler drivers do not exhibit that concept and they drive as if these trucks were as manageable as what they are driving and that's not the way it is at all. It appears from Tom Scordato's post that he was well aware of a possible upcoming hazarous event and he acted appropriately. That action may well have saved his life. If more people would similarly try to be more aware and prepared, many injuries and lives lost might be prevented. I don't know what the truck driver in question was doing when he should have been paying attention, but he obviously was driving beyond his capacity to control his vehicle. There could have been extenuating circumstances, but he was obviously not in control and that's a bad thing. Just as in any group of people, there are those over-the-road drivers who do their jobs efficiently and exhibit a high level of expertise--and there are those at the other end of the scale as well. Unfortunately, it's the ones at the lower end of the scale that often get the attention and therefore cause some folks to generalize and form opinions based on their (re: "all Indians walk single file--at least the one that I saw did") personal experiences which are often very limited in scope. It's too bad but that's how it is. Since I'm not aware of the safety standards of the aerospace or maritime industries, I'm unable to make any informed comments, but I do know that both the federal government as well as the individual states have the Department of Transportation regulations which do much to enforce compliance with safety standards. The demise of the old Interstate Commerce Commission left a little to be desired in as far as enforcement of a multitude of confusing rules, but it was a step in the right direction and all good things seem to take some time before they mature to their fruition (is that even a word?). Unfortunately, it's not there yet, but I have observed much progress (notice I didn't say improvement-some of the new rules are absolutely assinine!) in this area over the past 30 years. But they are working on it. Anyway, I got that off my chest. I'm glad nobody was injured or killed--that's the main thing--and one more of these amazing MBz's (with a driver a cut above the average driver) continues to roll on it's way and that's a good thing. ___ http://www.striplin.net For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net -- Kaleb C. Striplin/Claremore, OK 89 560SEL, 87 300SDL, 85 380SE, 85 300D, 84 250 LWB, 83 300TD, 81 300TD, 81 240D, 81 240D, 76 450SEL, 76 240D, 76 300D, 74 240D, 69 250 http://www.striplin.net
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Robert M Doran wrote: > Foremost in my mind when I am approaching any situation on the road is > the anticipation of what would be the most inappropriate (read: "stupid") > thing that another driver could do and then plan what my reaction would > be to it. I first read that in a motorcycle magazine when I was a teenager. Having a preplanned strategy for "if this bozo tries to kill me" does work. When the other driver does try to kill me, my contingency plan is implemented faster than I can think.
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
At the risk of getting a full-blown discussion started which will ultimately solve ALL the world's problems, I'll add a few more selected comments: Paying truckers a decent salary is fine, but most of the truckers I talk with are not so dissatisfied with their salaries as much as they are disillusioned with the treatment they receive--or don't receive, as the case may be--from many of the people they associate with during the course of doing their job--lessors, dispatchers, shippers, consignees, warehouse personnel, overzealous scale personnel, etc., just to name a few. Shipping schedules oftentimes result in actually forcing drivers to violate log book regulations and most truckers I know run at least two logbooks because if they don't they won't be able to do the job that their employer, shipper, dispatcher--or whatever--demands of them. Have you ever been ordered to intentionally drive your vehicle down the road when you know you're so tired you can't think straight?...Or have you ever been so distraught over having just been forced to unload your own truck or wait another day to unload (therefore making you be late to your next appointment) because you reported in to the unloading dock ten minutes later than you were told to because some inspector had held you up at the scale just to prove that he could, that you made a poor decision or two? It's not all about salary--some decency and respect for another human being's self-concept goes a long way too. Pay teachers more, too?I'll be one of the last to argue with that because I was a teacher before I started a career as a truck driver, but the reason I'm no longer teaching has nothing to do with money--I wasn't getting rich but I got by and the work was what I had always wanted to do so it really wasn't work for me in a sense. But I developed a problem dealing with kids whose parents were convinced that they could do no wrong. When I was in school myself I could have been every teacher's nightmare but I wasn't because I knew what my dad would do to me if he found out about itnot a pretty sight! That, sadly, is no longer true. Somehow, a 'time-out' just doesn't seem to pack it. If you're wondering why there's a teacher shortage I think there are more suitable other things to attribute it to than just low salaries--ask any teacher. The same holds true for the shortage of good, qualified truck drivers. Enough said about that. Limiting and monitoring speeds for trucks? Keep in mind that many of today's trucks are finely engineered machines monitored by computers and are fully capable of going with the flow of today's traffic, but have been programmed to stay within the limitations imposed by regulatory authorities. Of course there are ways to override those limitations and 'turn up' the horsepower and I guess that's fine until you get caught or twist a driveshaft or get too many speeding tickets. Hopefully you don't kill or maim somebody first. The way we do it in Montana is to be avoided, in my opinion. We set a daytime speed limit on secondary (two lane) highways of 60 mph for trucks and 70 mph for all other vehicles (except for Canadian trucks--they can go as fast as they want to at all times anywhere--NAFTA?). Now picture yourself in a line of traffic 1/2 mile long behind a trucker trying to go the speed limit of 60 because a speeding ticket may cost him his job, a tremendous raise in insurance rates, his CDL...or any combination. Of course you don't know that he is going as fast as he legally can, so you take a chance and try to work your way to the front of the line--as does everybody else--so you can pass the slower truck and be on your way. Do you flip him the bird as you go around? Of course you do! Does it make him happy? Of course it doesn't! Is he even more upset and frustrated now than he was yesterday? Probably. Is he more likely now to be involved in a mishap because his attention has been compromised? Hopefully not but probably. The legislature, in all it's wisdom, passed this law. I don't know if all states deal with this, but this is what some results have been around here. Yes, it's not easy to get a CDL, especially class A type 1 w/hazardous materials endorsement which is very often required, and it's much easier to lose one. That's the way it should be but it needs to go further by extending to all operators. The statistics for fatalities and injuries involving trucks are misleading at best. To use an analogy, of the people that have been attacked by lions in the past century, a large percentage of that number have probably been injured severely or even killed. This would lead you to feel--and rightfully so--that lions are to be feared and avoided. On the other hand, a much smaller percentage of the people attacked by dogs over the same period of time have probably suffered much less in all respects, and although there have probably been a far greater number of these dog attacks than there have been lion attacks,
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Everyone is "King of the Road". ~ ~I am amazed (but I should not be) when someone cuts me off when ~I have ther right of way and then gives me a one finger salute. They just do ~not know any better. ~ ~Randy B ~ -- Luther KB5QHU Alma, Ark '83 300SD (230,xxx kmi) '82 300CD (158,222 kmi) '90 300E & '82 300D (parts or run?)
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
On Wednesday, February 1, 2006, at 01:37 PM, Tom Scordato wrote: John to answer your question no I would not mind paying more. I know I would. You would too , you're just caught up in the moment. We are the most spoiled society on earth when it comes to that. We're spoiled in almost every aspect. (except automotive lighting) And Trucks do not need to cost a million bucks here are a few more thoughts that might work, heck maybe they are being tried allready. A) pay truckers a decent salary (may I suggest 75,000 to 100K ? a year plus benefits factor in inflation) to be away from their families, not piece meal $ for mile that is only asking for trouble. This would include salary minimums for independents as well as company truckers Some do make money like that and that's the life of a trucker. B) limit, monitors and track speeds with engine electronic and confirm of trucks via satellite or some other method. All this has been done for years and it is increasing. C) brain and education, psycho test, similar to getting a merchant marine cost guard license, nuclear operators license or other licensed positions renewable every five years. These are to be real strict. Try to weed out the chaff. Getting a CDL requires training and testing. Commercial drivers are faced with stiffer penalties and can loose there license for way fewer infractions than a common operator. D) people and the industry can wait the extra three to five days (?) the lower speed limits would entail, no one is going to melt because of it. We survived when it took trains three weeks to deliver something. Matter of fact we actually manufactured things back then stuff the whole world including us purchased. The rest of the world has been accustomed to speedy service and its the customer that inevitably sets the standard. i doubt the general public wants to wait any longer. For some next-day is too slow. E) weigh stations especially in the northeast (which are rarely open) would be required to be open allot more often (50%) of the time. Spot truck safety checks. The fact that they exist and could be open dictates that they drive safe trucks and haul safe loads. If you drove professionally, you'd think that there are too many open too much. In a lot of locales, they employ a system that takes info electronically and truck just have to pass under the sensors. This can only be used by those that meet all the requirements. Other trucks must pull into the weigh stations. F) satellite tracking of speed and movement to determine and limit speed and number of hours truck operators are on the road In effect for a long time. G) mandatory drug testing for uppers and downers Same as above. Long time. H) major bonuses for operators with a clean record who do not drive aggressively, reward safety. Severely penalize truckers for accidents when they are at fault. Like loose your commercial license, never drive commercially again just like if you screw up on a merchant ship, they rip your coast guard license up. This is done. Insurance Cos give Safe Driver discounts and penalties otherwise to private individuals as well as commercial drivers and trucking companies. A CDL is a Federal License issued by the various states, believe me, they're plenty strict as they are. I) as an industry have a campain to educate the "four wheelers" to share in safety. Amen, but this should be done before a license is issued after a certain amount of infractions/accidents and periodically throughout the life of drivers. Re-Testing should be mandatory as well. Some states are re-testing seniors. This is a good thing. If you can't pass written and driving tests you pose a threat to fellow drivers, pedestrians and property and should not be allowed the privelage of a driver's license. Make it a profession again instead of what one person told me "it was prison for me or trucking". Please do not compare trucks with cars by saying they should entail the same standards. 99% of the folks driving cars are not professionals. Tuckers are supposed to be professionals, not cowboys. There is too much at stake. How many more rights do you want us to give up? The bad drivers obsolete themselves over time, many lose their license and drive any way but its near impossible to drive a truck unlicensed, thanks to the regs you hopefully now realize are in effect. Regards Tom Scordato Bellefonte PA Johnny B. I Mac Therefore I am
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
I would agree with that to a great extent. It disturbs me to see vehicles on the road that have had a ball joint let go. I know folks who will put nothing into a vehicle until it actually breaks. However, I can also recall when we used to have inspections here, that I failed once because my ebrake was not quite tight enough and had to come back another day and prove that it had been repaired. Seemed to be overkill to me at the time but I guess they had standards that they had to enforce. We do not appear to have the random inspections anymore. - Too bad. I also suspect that the majority of the bone headed traffic manovers that we see are not deliberate in the sense that these folks know they are doing something illegal and dangerous, but just ignorance of the driving regulations. I am amazed (but I should not be) when someone cuts me off when I have ther right of way and then gives me a one finger salute. They just do not know any better. Randy B -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Luther Gulseth Sent: Wednesday, February 01, 2006 10:22 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues I also am in the trucking industry, managing the maintenance and repair of over 220 semi's, all from my computer and phone. When I'm in my 4 wheeler(I also posess a CDL), I constantly see reasons why we should have regulations similar to those in the commercial traffic realm. Many drivers/cars should be put "out of service" until the proper level of safety is attained. All states should have mandatory yearly checks for POI(inusrance) and the safety condition of the automobile. I dislike gov't over-regulation, but this is an area that is severely under-regulated. Luther ~ ~I just had to say something here because, besides presently owning and ~driving a 115 and a 107 (...and the old 123--gone but not forgotten), I ~drive an 18-wheeler for a living most of the time and have done so for ~over 30 years. ~ -- Luther KB5QHU Alma, Ark '83 300SD (230,xxx kmi) '82 300CD (158,222 kmi) '90 300E & '82 300D (parts or run?) ___ http://www.striplin.net For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
I am more than a little dismayed at the demise of the quality of the professional truck driver. not long ago, the big rig driver would often be an exemplar for safe and courteous driving. today, trucks scare me more than drunks. On 2/1/06, Robert M Doran <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > > I just had to say something here because, besides presently owning and > driving a 115 and a 107 (...and the old 123--gone but not forgotten), I > drive an 18-wheeler for a living most of the time and have done so for > over 30 years. > > Foremost in my mind when I am approaching any situation on the road is > the anticipation of what would be the most inappropriate (read: "stupid") > thing that another driver could do and then plan what my reaction would > be to it. I doubt if any of you guys on the list would believe me if I > told you how often that's exactly what does happen. I'm not trying to say > that truck drivers are blameless--in fact I've seen some real boneheads > that should have not been allowed behind the wheel of any vehicle, let > alone a truck--but some of the things I've seen 4-wheeler drivers do > would simply blow you away! And I have to concede that it is probable > that the sheer numbers of 4-wheelers in comparison to the numbers of > trucks on the road blow what I've observed out of proportion somewhat. > But still... > > In my years of operating these monsters my experiences have taught me to > be a defensive driver above all else and, even though I am confident > enough of my own driving abilities, I know that the beast I am herding > down the road is much more difficult to maneuver than is my 115, for > example, so I drive with that thought in mind and try to compensate in > advance for upcoming traffic situations. Unfortunately, many (most?) > 4-wheeler drivers do not exhibit that concept and they drive as if these > trucks were as manageable as what they are driving and that's not the way > it is at all. It appears from Tom Scordato's post that he was well aware > of a possible upcoming hazarous event and he acted appropriately. That > action may well have saved his life. If more people would similarly try > to be more aware and prepared, many injuries and lives lost might be > prevented. I don't know what the truck driver in question was doing when > he should have been paying attention, but he obviously was driving beyond > his capacity to control his vehicle. There could have been extenuating > circumstances, but he was obviously not in control and that's a bad > thing. > > Just as in any group of people, there are those over-the-road drivers who > do their jobs efficiently and exhibit a high level of expertise--and > there are those at the other end of the scale as well. Unfortunately, > it's the ones at the lower end of the scale that often get the attention > and therefore cause some folks to generalize and form opinions based on > their (re: "all Indians walk single file--at least the one that I saw > did") personal experiences which are often very limited in scope. It's > too bad but that's how it is. > > Since I'm not aware of the safety standards of the aerospace or maritime > industries, I'm unable to make any informed comments, but I do know that > both the federal government as well as the individual states have the > Department of Transportation regulations which do much to enforce > compliance with safety standards. The demise of the old Interstate > Commerce Commission left a little to be desired in as far as enforcement > of a multitude of confusing rules, but it was a step in the right > direction and all good things seem to take some time before they mature > to their fruition (is that even a word?). Unfortunately, it's not there > yet, but I have observed much progress (notice I didn't say > improvement-some of the new rules are absolutely assinine!) in this area > over the past 30 years. But they are working on it. > > Anyway, I got that off my chest. I'm glad nobody was injured or > killed--that's the main thing--and one more of these amazing MBz's (with > a driver a cut above the average driver) continues to roll on it's way > and that's a good thing. > ___ > http://www.striplin.net > For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ > For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] > > To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: > http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net >
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Our nation would be better off to double the salaries of our Teachers. This would attract more teachers that "can" and leave the option open to fire those who "cannot" and not have to worry about no one wanting to fill the position. ~ ~You mean like we do our folks in the military? [Sorry, just could not ~resist.] ~ ~On 2/1/06, Tom Scordato <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: ~ ~> ~> A) pay truckers a decent salary (may I suggest 75,000 to 100K ? a year ~> plus ~> benefits factor in inflation) to be away from their families ~> ~ ~ ~ -- Luther KB5QHU Alma, Ark '83 300SD (230,xxx kmi) '82 300CD (158,222 kmi) '90 300E & '82 300D (parts or run?)
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
You mean like we do our folks in the military? [Sorry, just could not resist.] On 2/1/06, Tom Scordato <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > > A) pay truckers a decent salary (may I suggest 75,000 to 100K ? a year > plus > benefits factor in inflation) to be away from their families > -- 1977 240D 1983 VW Quantum turbo diesel 5-speed 1972 Honda CB-500K motorcycle http://www.airamericaradio.com/listen
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Robert well written, thanks for your input, kind words and professionalism. I am sure the operator who almost hit me learned and important lesson yesterday too. / Tom Scordato - Original Message - From: "Robert M Doran" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Wednesday, February 01, 2006 12:56 PM Subject: Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues I just had to say something here because, besides presently owning and driving a 115 and a 107 (...and the old 123--gone but not forgotten), I drive an 18-wheeler for a living most of the time and have done so for over 30 years. Foremost in my mind when I am approaching any situation on the road is the anticipation of what would be the most inappropriate (read: "stupid") thing that another driver could do and then plan what my reaction would be to it. I doubt if any of you guys on the list would believe me if I told you how often that's exactly what does happen. I'm not trying to say that truck drivers are blameless--in fact I've seen some real boneheads that should have not been allowed behind the wheel of any vehicle, let alone a truck--but some of the things I've seen 4-wheeler drivers do would simply blow you away! And I have to concede that it is probable that the sheer numbers of 4-wheelers in comparison to the numbers of trucks on the road blow what I've observed out of proportion somewhat. But still... In my years of operating these monsters my experiences have taught me to be a defensive driver above all else and, even though I am confident enough of my own driving abilities, I know that the beast I am herding down the road is much more difficult to maneuver than is my 115, for example, so I drive with that thought in mind and try to compensate in advance for upcoming traffic situations. Unfortunately, many (most?) 4-wheeler drivers do not exhibit that concept and they drive as if these trucks were as manageable as what they are driving and that's not the way it is at all. It appears from Tom Scordato's post that he was well aware of a possible upcoming hazarous event and he acted appropriately. That action may well have saved his life. If more people would similarly try to be more aware and prepared, many injuries and lives lost might be prevented. I don't know what the truck driver in question was doing when he should have been paying attention, but he obviously was driving beyond his capacity to control his vehicle. There could have been extenuating circumstances, but he was obviously not in control and that's a bad thing. Just as in any group of people, there are those over-the-road drivers who do their jobs efficiently and exhibit a high level of expertise--and there are those at the other end of the scale as well. Unfortunately, it's the ones at the lower end of the scale that often get the attention and therefore cause some folks to generalize and form opinions based on their (re: "all Indians walk single file--at least the one that I saw did") personal experiences which are often very limited in scope. It's too bad but that's how it is. Since I'm not aware of the safety standards of the aerospace or maritime industries, I'm unable to make any informed comments, but I do know that both the federal government as well as the individual states have the Department of Transportation regulations which do much to enforce compliance with safety standards. The demise of the old Interstate Commerce Commission left a little to be desired in as far as enforcement of a multitude of confusing rules, but it was a step in the right direction and all good things seem to take some time before they mature to their fruition (is that even a word?). Unfortunately, it's not there yet, but I have observed much progress (notice I didn't say improvement-some of the new rules are absolutely assinine!) in this area over the past 30 years. But they are working on it. Anyway, I got that off my chest. I'm glad nobody was injured or killed--that's the main thing--and one more of these amazing MBz's (with a driver a cut above the average driver) continues to roll on it's way and that's a good thing. ___ http://www.striplin.net For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
John Berryman said "I guess you wouldn't mind paying a lot more for every thing you buy when trucks start costing more than a half million bucks. Note what fuel surcharges alone can do to the price of shipping. Maybe you should become a truck driver, it seems you might be more attentive than some already on the job. That's where the problem really exists, the human factor. Knowledge, skill, attitude, alertness and emotions all factor in and vary widely between individuals." John to answer your question no I would not mind paying more. We are the most spoiled society on earth when it comes to that. And Trucks do not need to cost a million bucks here are a few more thoughts that might work, heck maybe they are being tried allready. A) pay truckers a decent salary (may I suggest 75,000 to 100K ? a year plus benefits factor in inflation) to be away from their families, not piece meal $ for mile that is only asking for trouble. This would include salary minimums for independents as well as company truckers B) limit, monitors and track speeds with engine electronic and confirm of trucks via satellite or some other method. C) brain and education, psycho test, similar to getting a merchant marine cost guard license, nuclear operators license or other licensed positions renewable every five years. These are to be real strict. Try to weed out the chaff. D) people and the industry can wait the extra three to five days (?) the lower speed limits would entail, no one is going to melt because of it. We survived when it took trains three weeks to deliver something. Matter of fact we actually manufactured things back then stuff the whole world including us purchased. E) weigh stations especially in the northeast (which are rarely open) would be required to be open allot more often (50%) of the time. Spot truck safety checks. F) satellite tracking of speed and movement to determine and limit speed and number of hours truck operators are on the road G) mandatory drug testing for uppers and downers H) major bonuses for operators with a clean record who do not drive aggressively, reward safety. Severely penalize truckers for accidents when they are at fault. Like loose your commercial license, never drive commercially again just like if you screw up on a merchant ship, they rip your coast guard license up. I) as an industry have a campain to educate the "four wheelers" to share in safety. Make it a profession again instead of what one person told me "it was prison for me or trucking". Please do not compare trucks with cars by saying they should entail the same standards. 99% of the folks driving cars are not professionals. Tuckers are supposed to be professionals, not cowboys. There is too much at stake. Regards Tom Scordato Bellefonte PA - Original Message - From: "John Berryman" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Mercedes Discussion List" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Wednesday, February 01, 2006 11:32 AM Subject: Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues On Wednesday, February 1, 2006, at 06:34 AM, Tom Scordato wrote: An industry which should have the same safety standards as lets say the aerospace industry or maritime industry, is certainly lacking, big time, yet on a day by day basis affects as many if not more people. I guess you wouldn't mind paying a lot more for every thing you buy when trucks start costing more than a half million bucks. Note what fuel surcharges alone can do to the price of shipping. Maybe you should become a truck driver, it seems you might be more attentive than some already on the job. That's where the problem really exists, the human factor. Knowledge, skill, attitude, alertness and emotions all factor in and vary widely between individuals. Johnny B. I Mac Therefore I am ___ http://www.striplin.net For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
I also am in the trucking industry, managing the maintenance and repair of over 220 semi's, all from my computer and phone. When I'm in my 4 wheeler(I also posess a CDL), I constantly see reasons why we should have regulations similar to those in the commercial traffic realm. Many drivers/cars should be put "out of service" until the proper level of safety is attained. All states should have mandatory yearly checks for POI(inusrance) and the safety condition of the automobile. I dislike gov't over-regulation, but this is an area that is severely under-regulated. Luther ~ ~I just had to say something here because, besides presently owning and ~driving a 115 and a 107 (...and the old 123--gone but not forgotten), I ~drive an 18-wheeler for a living most of the time and have done so for ~over 30 years. ~ -- Luther KB5QHU Alma, Ark '83 300SD (230,xxx kmi) '82 300CD (158,222 kmi) '90 300E & '82 300D (parts or run?)
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
I just had to say something here because, besides presently owning and driving a 115 and a 107 (...and the old 123--gone but not forgotten), I drive an 18-wheeler for a living most of the time and have done so for over 30 years. Foremost in my mind when I am approaching any situation on the road is the anticipation of what would be the most inappropriate (read: "stupid") thing that another driver could do and then plan what my reaction would be to it. I doubt if any of you guys on the list would believe me if I told you how often that's exactly what does happen. I'm not trying to say that truck drivers are blameless--in fact I've seen some real boneheads that should have not been allowed behind the wheel of any vehicle, let alone a truck--but some of the things I've seen 4-wheeler drivers do would simply blow you away! And I have to concede that it is probable that the sheer numbers of 4-wheelers in comparison to the numbers of trucks on the road blow what I've observed out of proportion somewhat. But still... In my years of operating these monsters my experiences have taught me to be a defensive driver above all else and, even though I am confident enough of my own driving abilities, I know that the beast I am herding down the road is much more difficult to maneuver than is my 115, for example, so I drive with that thought in mind and try to compensate in advance for upcoming traffic situations. Unfortunately, many (most?) 4-wheeler drivers do not exhibit that concept and they drive as if these trucks were as manageable as what they are driving and that's not the way it is at all. It appears from Tom Scordato's post that he was well aware of a possible upcoming hazarous event and he acted appropriately. That action may well have saved his life. If more people would similarly try to be more aware and prepared, many injuries and lives lost might be prevented. I don't know what the truck driver in question was doing when he should have been paying attention, but he obviously was driving beyond his capacity to control his vehicle. There could have been extenuating circumstances, but he was obviously not in control and that's a bad thing. Just as in any group of people, there are those over-the-road drivers who do their jobs efficiently and exhibit a high level of expertise--and there are those at the other end of the scale as well. Unfortunately, it's the ones at the lower end of the scale that often get the attention and therefore cause some folks to generalize and form opinions based on their (re: "all Indians walk single file--at least the one that I saw did") personal experiences which are often very limited in scope. It's too bad but that's how it is. Since I'm not aware of the safety standards of the aerospace or maritime industries, I'm unable to make any informed comments, but I do know that both the federal government as well as the individual states have the Department of Transportation regulations which do much to enforce compliance with safety standards. The demise of the old Interstate Commerce Commission left a little to be desired in as far as enforcement of a multitude of confusing rules, but it was a step in the right direction and all good things seem to take some time before they mature to their fruition (is that even a word?). Unfortunately, it's not there yet, but I have observed much progress (notice I didn't say improvement-some of the new rules are absolutely assinine!) in this area over the past 30 years. But they are working on it. Anyway, I got that off my chest. I'm glad nobody was injured or killed--that's the main thing--and one more of these amazing MBz's (with a driver a cut above the average driver) continues to roll on it's way and that's a good thing. From [EMAIL PROTECTED] Wed Feb 01 18:02:04 2006 Received: from mta9.adelphia.net ([68.168.78.199]) by server5.arterytc5.net with esmtp (Exim 4.52) id 1F4MIu-0002DJ-D8 for [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Wed, 01 Feb 2006 18:02:04 + Received: from your03667082de ([68.233.126.219]) by mta9.adelphia.net (InterMail vM.6.01.05.02 201-2131-123-102-20050715) with SMTP id <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> for <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; Wed, 1 Feb 2006 13:01:59 -0500 Message-ID: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> From: "Tom Scordato" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Mercedes Discussion List" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> References: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> <[EMAIL PROTECTED]><[EMAIL PROTECTED]> <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Date: Wed, 1 Feb 2006 12:56:15 -0500 MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1"; reply-type=original Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit X-Priority: 3 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 6.00.2900.2180 X-MIMEOLE: Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V6.00.2900.2180 X-Antivirus-Scanner: Clean mail though you should still use an Antivirus Subject: Re: [MBZ] MB EPC Electronics Parts Catalog ON LINE X-BeenThere: [EMAIL PROTECTED] X-Mailman-Version: 2.1.6 Precedence: list Reply-
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
Recent article in our local paper says that the average age of truckers these days is climbing. Young people are not interested in the job and there is a shortage of drivers. Expect things to get worse before they get better. Randy B -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Tom Scordato Sent: Wednesday, February 01, 2006 3:34 AM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues Traveling on I-83 on my way to DC on business from Bellefonte PA. Place in Harrisburg where you have to off ramp on I -83 to get back on I-83. Ramp and up take to ramp are on a curve. Well Traffic was stopped on the ramp. I saw this in time and slowed down and left my usual three car lengths. As I slowed to a stop I looked in my rearview. Here comes a full size semi doing what I estimate is at least 50-55 mph or better coming right at me and closing very, very fast. So fast that I figured not only would I be dead (pulverized from the rear) but my car would be pool balled into the car stopped ahead of me. No steel beauty 123 chassis was going to save me from this. No way instant death. At the last nano second, I had about 6 feet of break down lane on my right and that three-car length space ahead of me I gunned it and moved into the break down lane. He or she by some act of God made a swerve steering maneuver to his left, which made his load do a little dance, but missed me by 2 to 6 inches. He keeps going in the left lane, which took you to some state road. Like I said I would have been pulverized or vaporized instantaneously. Few cars ahead would / could have been wasted too. If it was a car that hit me it might have been survivable. The guy is driving a 100,000 lb (?) rig and flat out was not paying attention. That is the difference (the shear physics), which can never be overlooked. An industry which should have the same safety standards as lets say the aerospace industry or maritime industry, is certainly lacking, big time, yet on a day by day basis affects as many if not more people. It is truly out of control. In my million plus miles of traveling this was the closest I have come to getting wasted. Thanks Guardian Angel my dear! ___ http://www.striplin.net For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net
Re: [MBZ] Trucking Industry the Saga continues
On Wednesday, February 1, 2006, at 06:34 AM, Tom Scordato wrote: An industry which should have the same safety standards as lets say the aerospace industry or maritime industry, is certainly lacking, big time, yet on a day by day basis affects as many if not more people. I guess you wouldn't mind paying a lot more for every thing you buy when trucks start costing more than a half million bucks. Note what fuel surcharges alone can do to the price of shipping. Maybe you should become a truck driver, it seems you might be more attentive than some already on the job. That's where the problem really exists, the human factor. Knowledge, skill, attitude, alertness and emotions all factor in and vary widely between individuals. Johnny B. I Mac Therefore I am
