Why Truck Mandates Need a Brake Check | Land Line Media
Federal safety investigations, commercial vehicle inspections, bankruptcy filings and legal disputes are among the latest developments affecting the trucking industry. The updates also include a new safety campaign and research into hours-of-service and electronic logging device requirements.
NHTSA Investigates False Automatic Braking Activations
Truck drivers have raised concerns that advanced emergency braking systems could unexpectedly bring an 80,000-pound tractor-trailer to a complete stop without an actual obstacle in the vehicle’s path.
Those concerns were examined in an investigation launched by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration between the issuance of an automatic emergency braking requirement and publication of a related proposed rule. The investigation focused on false activations of automatic emergency braking systems installed on heavy trucks.
The issue has drawn attention because an unintended hard-braking event can create risks for the affected truck and nearby vehicles, particularly in high-speed traffic.
Inspections Target Southeastern Freight Corridors
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and state law enforcement agencies conducted 552 commercial vehicle inspections along freight corridors in the Southeast. The operation focused on commercial vehicle safety and compliance with federal and state requirements.
Separately, the American Transportation Research Institute launched a research survey examining hours-of-service rules and electronic logging device mandates. The effort is intended to gather industry feedback on how the requirements affect drivers and motor carriers.
Carriers Face Bankruptcy and Legal Disputes
Chapter 11 filings involve Globemaster Incorporated, Xoco Transport, Jett Transport & Materials, CLJ Transporting, Mill Creek Logistics-Illinois, RP Hay Hauling, Truckload LLC and Pacer Transport.
In another case, federal prosecutors allege that an investment operation marketed truck ownership as a way for investors to collect regular payments. According to the allegations, money from newer investors was used to pay earlier investors, while the company owner spent funds on luxury purchases.
Six U.S. trucking companies have also filed a federal lawsuit in Texas against TQL and C.H. Robinson under the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. The complaint alleges that the companies used a network of noncompliant carriers to reduce costs and freight rates. The allegations have not been proven in court.
Super Ego is not named as a defendant in that case. C.H. Robinson said the Super Ego companies it worked with were legally established and in good standing, and that each trucking company operated under its own authority.
Safety Campaign and Policy Issues
New campaign materials are available for sharing safety messages, graphics and other resources designed to help motorists safely share the road with large trucks and buses.
Separately, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has opposed a proposal to suspend the state’s gas tax. DeWine warned that reducing transportation funding could significantly affect the Ohio Department of Transportation and its ability to maintain the state’s infrastructure.
A rumored trucker strike scheduled for Oct. 1 has circulated widely on social media. Available information described the claim as likely unfounded, with a video posted Sept. 15 identified as one of the main pieces of content promoting the rumor. The video was later reposted across multiple social media platforms.
