Alabama Trucker, 1st Quarter 2017

I

N S I D E

T

H I S

I

S S U E

Boyd Celebrates 60 years

4

There aren’t many trucking companies left that can lay claim to 60 years in business, but Boyd Bros. Transportation just reached that incredible landmark, and company officials say its best years are still ahead.

Published quarterly by the Alabama Trucking Assn., P.O. Box 242337, Montgomery, AL 36124-2337. www.alabamatrucking.org or call 334-834-3983 PUBLISHER Ford Boswell fboswell@alabamatrucking.org EXECUTIVE EDITOR Frank Filgo ffilgo@alabamatrucking.org

With the Alabama Legislature’s 2017 Session now in full swing, we asked Alabama President and CEO Frank Filgo to weigh in on what lies ahead for the Association’s aggressive legislative agenda. Inside, he lays out his expectation and goals for the Session and what members can do to help the process.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Cindy Segrest csparks67@gmail.com PRODUCTION EDITORS Jane Nixon, Brandie Norcross CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kelly Snyder ADVERTISING Ford Boswell fboswell@alabamatrucking.org

Right Man For The Job PRESIDENT & CEO Frank Filgo, CAE

12

Chris Spear, the ninth President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations, may be new to the role but is in no way a newcomer to the trucking industry. Growing up around the industry, and spending most of his career fighting for it as a lobbyist, National ATA’s new president is experienced, aggressive, and a great choice to lead America’s trucking industry.

DIRECTOR OF SAFETY & MEMBER SERVICES Tim Frazier, CDS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Jane Nixon DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Ford Boswell ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Brandie Norcross ATA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Steve Aronhalt, Dennis Bailey, Nick Balanis, Aubrey Baugh, Rhonda Bees, Joe Black, Gary Bond, Jack Brim, Greg Brown, Will Bruser, Dan Carmichael, Fenn Church, Mark Coffman, Jeff Coleman, John Collier, Rodger Collins, Driscoll Colquett, Brent Cook, Gail Cooper, Al Cox, Jerry Davis, Ranny Davis, Amy DeFee, Joe Donald, Edmund Doss, Mack Dove, Will Forbes, Jack Fricks, Kevin Henderson, Beau Holmes, Terry Kilpatrick, Jason King, Mark Knotts, Jerry Kocan, Drew Linn, Hunter Lyons, Bart McCrory, Jeff McGrady, Barry McGriff, Bruce MacDonald, Tom McLeod, Rollins Montgomery, Buck Moore, E.H. Moore, Jr., Ross Neely, Jr., Tommy Neely, Greg Orr, Butch Owens, Clay Palm, Mike Pursley, Kevin Savoy, Bill Scruggs, Danny Smith, Ronnie Stephenson, Steve Stinson, Paul Storey, Harold Sumerford, Jr., John Summerford, James Suttles, Tim Tucker, Bill Ward, Wayne Watkins, Taylor White, David Wildberger, Skip Williams, T.J. Willings, Keith Wise.

8

Legislative Session

D

E P A R T M E N T S

President’s Message. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Safety Insights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 SMMC Update. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Trucking News Roundup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Buyers’ Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 ATA Events and New Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Advertising rates are available upon request.

An Affiliate of the American Trucking Associations

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

334-834-3983 • www.alabamatrucking.org 1

From the President

Taking Care of Business

Y

Frank Filgo, CAE President and CEO Alabama Trucking Association

‘Trucking’s investment in Alabama’s economy demands that we have a strong voice in the state’s legislative and regulatory decisions…’

2

our state trucking association is hard at work promoting and protecting the interests of Alabama’s trucking industry. What follows are upcoming ATA events, as we strive to take care of your business interests.

Last month, the Alabama State Legislature convened for its 2017 Regular Session and will meet through mid-May. ATA’s agenda for the session is addressed in an article starting on page 8. As the Voice of Trucking, your ATA is privileged to represent the interests of an industry that provides more than 105,630 jobs; pays approximately $541 million in highway user taxes; and delivers 79 percent of the state’s manufactured goods. Trucking’s investment in Alabama’s economy demands a strong voice in the state’s legislative and regulatory decisions that impact the industry.

Currently, ATA is hosting regional workshops throughout the state focused on legal issues regarding compensation compliance and independent contractor relationships.

Attorneys Mark Waggoner and Lisa Cooper with the law firm of Hand Arendall, LLC are leading the conferences, providing valuable information that can protect your operation from costly pitfalls. Fleet owners, safety professionals and HR professionals are encouraged to attend.

Later this month, ATA’s SMMC Fleet Safety Awards will be presented. At that event, our Safety & Maintenance Management Council (SMMC) will honor Alabama’s safest fleets and recognize the state’s elite industry professionals, including the Driver of the Year Award. The trucking industry is committed to highway safety, and the recognition of those in the industry who best represent this commitment gives notice to the general public of our continued effort to reduce highway crashes and fatalities.

Also this quarter, our ATA Nominating Committee consisting of active Past Chair-

men, will meet to develop a slate of nominees for our ATA Officers and its Board of Directors for the Year 2017-’18. These future leaders will determine the forthcoming direction of the Association in delivering the best membership services for members. I believe that the greatest strength of this Association is its leadership. Fortunately, we have members that, from year to year, step up to diligently serve this great industry.

In April, our Annual Membership Meeting and Convention will be held at the beautiful Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa. Convention Chairman, Terry Kilpatrick of Billy Barnes Enterprises, has done an outstanding job of lining up the meeting’s agenda including our guest speakers and entertainment. Hats off to Will Bruser of Truckworx Kenworth and his Convention Finance Committee for breaking the all-time record in Convention sponsorship pledges. As of this date, our hotel room block is full, and we are arranging for a spill-over crowd with nearby hotels. It promises to be a Convention to be remembered. I look forward to seeing you there.

In May, the SMMC will host its Alabama Truck Driving Championships (TDC) to be held in Pelham, Ala. The event’s purpose is to demonstrate the unique skills of a professional truck driver with emphasis on highway safety. Winners of the various classes of competition will represent our state trucking association at the National TDC. Hopefully, an Alabama driver will be awarded a National TDC crown.

In closing, I want to thank Chairman Gary Bond and our Board of Directors for their leadership this year. Their commitment to the Association and its goals continue to move trucking and this state’s economy forward. And to the membership: Thank you for your support as this Association continues to take care of your business interests.

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

Boyd Bros. Celebrates People and family values drive success.

The late Dempsey Boyd, who founded Boyd Bros. with his brothers, Cecil and Hilly in 1956, sits at his desk at the company’s headquarters. Dempsey's daughter, Gail Cooper, now serves as the company's CEO. Gail's son, Chris Cooper, serves as president.

Cecil Boyd, left, and his brothers Hilly and Dempsey, stand next to a tractor their father, William Nickey Boyd, right, operated.

4

CLAYTON, Ala. – There aren’t many trucking companies left that can lay claim to 60 years in business.

But Boyd Bros. Transportation, a Daseke company based here since 1956, just reached that incredible landmark, and company officials say its best years are still ahead.

“It’s wonderful to look back and see what we’ve accomplished over the past 60 years,” said Boyd CEO, Gail Cooper, whose late father, Dempsey, started the flatbed/specialized trucking company with his brothers Hilly and Cecil. “But the best is yet to come as we continue to expand our business offerings and grow our business.”

According to Cooper, Boyd’s recipe for success has been built on a culture of taking care of its people.

“We operate a family business and have treated our employees and drivers right,” she said. “We at Boyd A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

60 Years of Business

have high integrity with a solid moral compass.”

Boyd’s growth has been especially strong in logistics and in offering full-service solutions. “We’ve also grown significantly with owner operators and lease-purchase drivers,” said Cooper. “We plan to keep driving hard in these areas as we further expand as a fullservice trucking and logistics partner for our customers.”

With more than 680 tractors, Boyd joined Daseke Inc. in 2013, but has kept its management and family culture in place.

“Our way of business did not change when we became a Daseke company,” said Cooper. “Don Daseke shares our belief that people make the difference. By being a Daseke company, we’re able to build on the synergy we have with our sister companies. And we share in scale and best practices.”

“I am so proud of the Boyd Bros. team on this great milestone that celebrates three generations of dedication to people,” said Don A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

“We do life with our drivers. We support them during their highest moments – a marriage, or the birth of a child, for example – or during dark days with an illness or death. Our chaplaincy program is integral to our culture. We also have Teledoc – a concierge medical support program that provides medical attention on the road.”

—Chris Cooper, President 5

Daseke, CEO of Daseke Inc. “Chris, Gail and their team truly embody family values. They live the importance of understanding and respecting your legacy while being focused on building the future. A future we are all very excited to build together.”

Boyd Bros. is a family-run business in the truest sense.

Gail’s son, Chris, serves as president of the company. “We have family values in how we run our company,” said Chris. “The vision of my grandfather was to work hard, work smart and enjoy life; and, to value, respect and trust our people. That philosophy has never wavered.”

According to Chris, Boyd attracts strong people who care about its customers. “We have three business practices that have been passed down to each generation,” said Chris. “Attract and develop good people – at our core is a group of hardworking, caring people who believe in Boyd and value our customers. We also diGail Cooper, CEO of Boyd Bros., and her son, Chris Cooper, President versify our product mix and customer base. This has allowed us to Company History weather shifts in economic trends. Lastly, we Dempsey and his brothers Cecil and Hilly partner with customers and vendors who started driving trucks in the late 1940s, evenvalue service and professionalism. This has altually forming Boyd Bros. Transportation Inc. lowed us to develop relationships with these as a small, regional flatbed-trucking operation companies and move forward together. And, with three tractors hauling flatbed, open trailthat has meant our customers are willing to ers for customers who needed delivery on invest in carriers that can deliver their freight time. Freight consisted of steel products and to their customers in a timely manner, errorother building materials for various producers free. Their commitment to the customer afacross the state. fords us the resources to hire the best drivers, Cecil and Hilly left the company in the maintain the best equipment and technology, mid-1960s, and Gail came on several years allowing us to provide excellent service.” later, working in various positions that gave Boyd drivers are some of the safest in the her familiarity with all phases of the business. industry. One out of every seven Boyd drivShe would eventually become president and ers has driven 1 million consecutive acciCEO of the company, with her father as dent-free miles. “Thirteen percent have chairman of the board. been with us for more than 10 years; 25 Through the 1980s, the company slowly percent for five years or longer,” said Chris. added trucks and regional centers, creating a “We have a true family that is very diverse. network that by the early 1990s had extended In fact, 54 percent of our drivers have a miits range of operations across the eastern two nority status. We celebrate diversity and inthirds of the United States. The company esdividuality.” tablished its corporate headquarters and prinIn addition, the company has a chaplain. cipal service center in Clayton, Ala. where it “We do life with our drivers,” said Chris. remains today.

“We support them during their highest moBoyd Bros. has grown to one of the naments – a marriage, or the birth of a child, tion’s largest and most influential trucking for example – or during dark days with an firms. Its scope and reach has grown far beillness or death. Our chaplaincy program is yond Alabama’s borders. And with its merger integral to our culture. We also have Teledoc with Daseke, the organization offers terminals – a concierge medical support program that serving 49 states, Canada and Mexico. provides medical attention on the road.”

6

But the family, particularly Gail, remains active with the Alabama Trucking Association, and served as its Chairman in 2010 – the first woman to hold that position in the group’s 79year history.

Cooper worked to bolster the Association’s stature among the state’s leading highway and driver safety advocates by investing in and assisting with proven initiatives administered by state and federal law enforcement agencies, including Ticketing Aggressive Cars and Trucks (TACT) program; Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s new fleet and driver safety monitoring program Comprehensive Safety Analysis (CSA) 2010; and federal and state lawmakers’ efforts to enact across-the-board bans on texting while driving by commercial and non-commercial drivers.

For her leadership and contributions to the state’s trucking industry, ATA, during its 2014 Convention honored Gail with its H. Chester Webb Award for lifetime achievement and service to the trucking industry. Dempsey received the award nearly 30 years before for his longtime support for the trucking industry and the Association.

“To be honored with the H. Chester Webb award was extremely humbling,” Cooper said.

“It was really special. They secretly brought in my family, who were waiting in a nearby room. I was totally shocked.”

Continued Excellence According to Gail, Boyd’s attention to driver and customer needs will continue.

“We’ve been honored and recognized in the past – we’re a past recipient of Commercial Carrier Journal magazine’s Innovator of the Year award, and have been recognized by Truckload Carriers Association as one of the nation’s Best Fleets to Drive For – placing in the top 20 for three years and receiving the top award in 2010.

But, internally we get most excited when we’re named as a shipper’s carrier of the year, or when we hold a celebration to recognize a Boyd driver who has reached a milestone – like Charlie Walker getting his 3-million-mile safe driving award with us this year.”

Ford Boswell contributed to this article.

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

CLEARING ROAD BLOCKS AT THE STATE HOUSE A Q&A session with ATA’s chief lobbyist Frank Filgo.

By Ford Boswell ith the Alabama Legislature’s 2017 SesW sion now in full swing, we asked Alabama Trucking Association President and CEO Frank Filgo to weigh in on what lies ahead for the Association’s aggressive legislative agenda.

Filgo has led ATA’s lobbying efforts for more than 20 years, bringing motor carriers fair and reasonable regulation of the state’s trucking industry. Along the way he has built strong ties with other pro-business organizations to foster a viable political and business climate for Alabama – one that takes into account economic growth potential while also considering the industry’s impact on public safety and environmental concerns.

1. So why the focus on advocacy?

The Alabama Trucking Association’s mission is to advocate sound transportation policies and work to maintain a safe, responsible and efficient Alabama transportation goods movement system. Advocacy, the act of supporting a particular cause, is a primary component of our association’s member services program. We are the Voice of Trucking in Alabama.

Over the last few years, ATA has upped its game within the legislative and political arena. We have a proven team in place to address industry specific legislation for the purpose of passing pro-truck legislation, or defeating anti-truck legislation. Key victories include passage of the proration of the inspection fee on diesel fuel, additional weight limits for vehicles us auxiliary power units (APUs), the Metal Coil Securement Act, an Anti-indemnification Bill, a Cargo Theft Bill, among others. Conversely, no anti-truck bill has passed in recent times.

In addition to our lobbying efforts on behalf of the industry, ATA partners with other like-minded coalitions such as The Business Council of Alabama (BCA), the Alliance for Alabama’s Infrastructure (AAI), Business Associations Tax Committee (BATC), Alabama Civil Justice Reform Committee (ACJRC), and the Governor’s Small Business Task Force.

By working with these organizations, ATA broadens its lobbying efforts to include matters that benefit a comprehensive pro-business climate in Alabama.

Furthermore, ATA does not limit its advocacy efforts to Alabama. ATA, being a proud member affiliate of the American 8

Trucking Associations, works the U.S. Congress in support of the American Trucking Associations efforts to defend and protect the trucking industry at the national level.

In addition, ATA’s political action committee (TRUK PAC) is one of the state’s top trade association political action groups in terms of monies spent and influence.

The purpose of the TRUK PAC is to elect pro-truck/pro-business candidates to the state legislature, the state courts, and its other state-level elected offices. During the last state elections in 2016, TRUK PAC contributed more than a million dollars to selected candidates with a winning percentage of 86 percent. Electing pro-truck candidates makes it much easier to pass meaningful transportation initiatives.

2. What are ATA’s 2017 legislation goals?

In summary, these include: l Provide for adequate funding for Alabama’s highway infrastructure; l Earmark highway user fees for road construction and maintenance, and safety enforcement; l Provide for an appeals process as it applies to non-consensual towing fees; l Provide for a uniform motor excise fuel tax for collections on compressed natural gas (CNG) & liquefied natural gas (LNG); l Provide for additional weight limits on interstates for vehicles using LNG & CNG; l Defend the status of “independent operator” as it relates to owner operators delivering freight; l Support realistic highway safety initiatives (example: mandatory seatbelt law for all passengers) and defeat those ill-conceived initiatives which provide no safety benefits; and l Support initiatives of our business partners that promote Alabama’s economic growth.

2. If you had to prioritize ATA’s legislative agenda for this session, what issues are at the top of your list?

Our top priorities are to adequately fund our state’s highway infrastructure, provide for appeals process to contest excessive “non-consensual” towing fees, and to preserve highway user fees to fund road construction and maintenance for highway safety enforcement.

Highway funding: ATA supports the efforts of the Alliance for Alabama’s Infrastructure (AAI), a business coalition, whose goal is to increase Alabama’s public investment in transportation infrastructure to sustain and promote economic growth, job creation, quality of life, and public safety.

ATA believes that new revenue sources to ensure stable and long-term funding for the improvement of Alabama’s infrastructure should apply uniformly across all types of highway users; be based on a verifiable highway and vehicle use; not easily evaded; inexpensive and efficient to administer and not impede interstate commerce. To that point, among the mechanisms that fit those criteria are to adjust the state’s gasoline and diesel tax.

As of now, ATA, along with the AAI, continue to assess the best path to gain legislative approval.

Towing fees: Another priority is to put in place an appeals process to provide relief from excessive towing fees. Last year we received several motor carrier member complaints about towing companies charging excessive fees for non-consequential towing services. One in particular was about $60,000. ATA was able to get that bill reduced to less than $40,000, because the incidental charges were way out of line. What’s needed is an avenue to appeal a towing bill that is excessive.

REPRESENTATIVES HOUSE OF

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

Highway user fees: ATA supports the current state’s fiscal practice of earmarking the diesel tax and truck registration fees for the purpose of road and bridge construction/ maintenance and highway safety enforcement. A special legislative committee is currently reviewing state earmarks, and will soon propose changes to that process.

ATA once again believes that highway user fees should be earmark for purpose mentioned. Another truck fee is the UCR fees which collect about $2.9 million annually from Alabama based interstate motor carriers. Those funds now go to the Public Service Commission for purposes of truck safety enforcement. ATA contends that those funds should go to the Motor Carrier Safety Unit of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

Are there any bills from the current session that have caught your eye so far?

One bill, in particular, comes to mind. It relates to limiting commercial vehicles to the right-hand lane. The bill proposes to limit trucks to the right hand lane on a highway with two lanes headed in the same direction unless passing, emergencies and so forth. That’s fine. However, the proposal states that a commercial vehicle must completely pass the other vehicle within a distance of less than one mile. Furthermore, trucks are prohibited from using the other lane on highways having three or more lanes heading in the same direction.

and highways safer.

As to limiting trucks with more than three axles to use the outside lane on highways of three or more lanes, we can live with that in certain areas if deemed appropriate by highway safety professionals. That call can currently be made by the Secretary of ALEA under existing law.

In our opinion, if the bill were to pass, it would have little or no impact in promoting highway safety. It’s redundant and unenforceable, and further, it could cost the state taxpayers’ to provide funding for additional road signs, not to mention the wear and tear of certain lanes on our highways.

What we need are additional state troopers on the road along with better, safer roads. That is our legislative priority.

We have several objections. First, we already have laws that prevent the circumstance addressed in the initial reference. That law states that no person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede the normal reasonable movement of traffic except when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law. In other words, no vehicle (trucks nor automobiles) can impede the flow of traffic. As to the one mile limit, who is going to be on hand to enforce it? That brings up another point; the bill is unenforceable. Unless a law enforcement officer is on the scene, no citation can be written. There are only 253 state troopers on the road. What’s the chance of this having any impact to make our roads

STATE SENATE

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

What are ATA’s plans to improve and strengthen its lobbying efforts?

There are several things that we must do, if we as the Association are to be an effective advocate for the trucking industry.

First, we must continue our efforts to have adequate political action funds on hand to elect pro-truck candidates. Every member is encouraged to make a voluntary contribution to the PAC upon paying their membership dues. Most take advantage of that – but many don’t. We must continue to grow our voluntary PAC contribution every year. And we need our members to pay and play in our Annual Golf Classic since those funds benefit the PAC. With a well-funded PAC, ATA can continue to grow its political clout.

Secondly, we need our members to be more responsive to our legislative alerts once a truck bill comes up for a vote. Soon, we will install a new legislative contact program to our website for that purpose. We have a great lobby team on hand at the state capital, but we need our members to reinforce our efforts by personally contacting their public officials.

If we do those things, I think the Association can deliver as an effective advocate for the trucking industry.

9

Working Together as an Industry:

Chris Spear’s Vision National ATA’s new president is experienced, aggressive, and a great choice to lead America’s trucking industry.

By Kelly Snyder

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chris Spear, the ninth President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations, may be new to the role but is in no way a newcomer to the trucking industry. “Some of my best memories growing up were riding in the cab as my dad trucked grain from the wheat fields of Nebraska to the silos.”

12

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

In taking on this role, Spear has a vision and is not afraid of change. In fact, one of the first decisions he made as leader was to change ATA’s management team and decentralize the leadership structure. He named four new executives to the senior leadership team including Elisabeth Barna, chief operating officer and executive vice president of industry affairs; Jennifer Hall, general counsel and executive vice president of legal affairs; Sue Hensley, executive vice president of communications and public affairs; and Bill Sullivan, executive vice president of advocacy.

Also playing a heavy role in his vision for the industry is telling the trucking industry story and telling it well, together. “Telling our story matters. But telling it together matters even more. The state of our industry cannot be driven by Washington. We simply cannot allow that to happen. As truckers, you each live and work in the real world, where the pressures of profit and loss reside. People’s livelihoods depend on the decisions you make. Unlike Washington, there’s no room in the real world for complacency or incompetence.”

Spear knows a thing or two about the inner-workings of Capitol Hill since prior to joining the ATA he served as vice president of government affairs at Hyundai Motor Company and Assistant Secretary of Labor. Spear also served as professional staff for Senators Tim Hutchinson (R-Ark.), Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.) and Alan Simpson (RWyo.). He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Wyoming.

“It’s our job, our responsibility, to make sure that issues impacting our way of life aren’t surrendered to those who would rather criticize than look for solutions. We need to help congress shape and pass good bills — and that may involve some compromise. Yet, I believe that can be done without sacrificing one’s conviction.”

With that said, Spear has his eyes set on two major Capitol Hill victories he doesn’t want to have to compromise on; a permanent hours-of-service fix and preempting states from adding new layers of meal and rest break requirements on carriers operating across state lines. “Both of these issues have enjoyed broad industry support and careful, coordinated grassroots and grasstops advocacy on Capitol Hill and I am confident that everyone’s hard work will pay off.”

As for what he’s hoping to see in 2017 from Washington? “In Congress, we should anticipate tax reform. Our industry pays higher corporate tax rates than other modes, including rail. I’m not suggesting that others pay more, but I do believe we should pay less, especially when the truckA LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

ing industry is already taxed at the pump and fighting multiple federal and state proposals to add new tolls.”

Along with tax reform, Spear is anxious to come to an agreement on the best practices for funding our nation’s infrastructure. “As an industry, we have long been an advocate for an increased, indexed fuel tax. As we all know, roads and bridges are not free. They aren’t cheap and we pay nearly half the tab.

But those DC ideologues and the pressure they’ve applied on congress on recent years has put a 60-year, bipartisan policy and reliable funding source in jeopardy.” He understands that compromise may be a necessity

Spear is ready to further amplify the industry’s voice through the successful Trucking Moves America Forward campaign, Share the Road campaign and Lead ATA program. “We also need to take credit for what we do. We are a caring, compassionate industry, giving generously to a vast array of good causes. From hospitals to little league, our industry funds community goodwill throughout the United States.

Not only is his mission to get our industry’s story out to the public, but he’s ready for the fight of changing the public’s opinion of trucking. “In the eyes of some elected officials, we look like a money-filled

and is willing to send ATA back to the drawing board, if it means coming to an agreement. “ATA must be prepared to realign our policies with the realities on Capitol Hill, beginning with a new means for funding our nation’s infrastructure. To that end, I will be asking the ATA Highway Policy Committee to develop a new proposal that we can advocate and the next administration and congress can consider and adopt.”

Whether he’s discussing the latest advocacy efforts ATA will make on Capitol Hill or providing updates on the latest issues facing the industry, Spear wants us to remember one key message. “We have a story to tell. The story of trucking is the story of America. And we work hard. Together, we move nearly 70 percent of our nation’s freight. If our revenue were GDP, American Trucking would be the 18th largest economy in the world. As one, we are the backbone of our economy and a pillar of our nation’s security.”

In addition to telling the trucking story,

piñata. I’m here to tell you that those days, those impressions of our industry, are over.

And to the anti-truck groups, hear this. If you want to throw the first proverbial punch, you’d better knock us down because you will feel the one we throw back. ATA will fight your one-line sound bites and baseless rhetoric and we will publicly call out the hidden agendas of other industry groups. We’ll do it by speaking the truth, sharing the facts and leveraging every tool and resource we have available.”

It’s well known that groups work best when working together and that knowledge is what drives Spear’s vision for trucking.

“We need to unite as an industry. United, we’ve proven that we can win, and win big.

This is a game and it’s not one we can’t afford to lose. We need to get in the game and we need to get in it together.”

Kelly Snyder is communications manager for the Minnesota Trucking Association. She can be reached at kelly@mstruck.org.

13

SAFETY & MAINTENANCE Safety Insights

By Ford Boswell

F

or newest Alabama Road Team Captain Lloyd Howell there’s no other job he’d rather have than driving a truck. From the first time he sat behind the wheel of one, he knew driving for a Howell living was what he wanted to do. He loves the freedom of the open road, the machinery, and the opportunity to meet new people. “Every day is different – it’s never the same thing twice,” he says.

The 50-year-old driver for TCW, Inc.’s Birmingham terminal was recently selected to join the Alabama Trucking Association’s Road Team, a public safety campaign started by the Association about 17 years ago.

Team captains are available upon request at no charge to any group needing a speaker to inform or entertain. Presentations include Share the Road demonstrations, driver safety, industry promotion, and a variety of other topics.

The Road Team is composed of professional drivers selected for an outstanding safety record and an ability to communicate with audiences from many different walks of life.

These individuals are ambassadors for the trucking industry and take a few days each month away from their regular driving duties to speak to civic organizations, classrooms, businesses and media.

Howell has worked in trucking for 21 years. He started with Birmingham Budweiser as a driver helper making local deliveries, but eventually moved into the driver’s seat after teaching himself how to drive a truck.

“I kept hinting around to my supervisor that I wanted to drive,” Howell says. “One day, he pointed to an empty truck on the yard and told me to start learning how. Trouble was it was an old 10 speed with a splitter, so it took me a little while. I spent a lot of time just driving circles on the yard until I got the hang of it.”

14

New Road Team Captain Lloyd Howell Is Ready To Serve But after a few weeks of training, practice and study, he told his supervisor he was ready to sit for his CDL exam. “As soon as I came back with my new CDL, they put me in a truck. I’ve been at it ever since.”

He later took a job with a local Sysco Corp. distribution center where he started out as a driver, but was eventually moved into managerial positions mostly working in safety, training and compliance for about 40 drivers.

He stayed several years at that position, but eventually began to miss being in the cab.

“You know, I can do a lot of things, and honestly, I can do other jobs to stay out of the truck if I wanted that,” he says, “but if I’m forced to choose between an office job or driving a truck, I’ll pick driving every time. I

ATA’s Road Team Captains Rodney Cosper UPS Freight Trussville, Ala. UPS Freight driver Rodney Cosper began driving trucks in 1990, and has received numerous awards and recognitions for professionalCosper ism from his employer and other industry organizations.

He joined the Road Team in April 2014.

His passion for workplace and highway safety is infectious.

A father of two teenage boys, Cosper knows the many distractions young drivers face — everything from digital devices to vehicle passengers and others on the road. He says he is excited to be a member of the Road Team so that he can continue to teach other youth about responsible driving. “I take a lot of pride that I taught my oldest how to drive and be a safe and courteous driver,” he says.

Cosper says he’s had a great career in trucking and wants everyone to understand

just like being involved with things.”

In 2009, he signed on with his current employer, TCW, as a full-time driver. As with Sysco, his supervisors soon realized his leadership abilities and commitment to a steadfast adherence to the rules of the road and work place safety. Company mangers asked him to serve as a “Master Coach” for the fleet. Drivers call him with questions and suggestions – or they may just need an outlet to vent their concerns.

“I’m just there to be a positive force for the drivers,” he explains. “I have no duties with hiring or anything like that. I mostly make myself available as a sounding board for the guys so they can express their needs and concerns to someone who does the and respect what trucking provides for the community.

“Without our industry’s contribution to the economy, folks would not have the essential things they need to live,” he says.

Rusty Holmes UPS Freight Odenville, Ala. Rusty Holmes has worked with UPS for more than 25 years, logging more than 1.5 million miles for the company’s facility in Holmes Trussville, Ala. In his three decades with UPS, he’s been honored for outstanding professionalism and safety by his employer; the Alabama Trucking Association; and the National Safety Council.

He also serves on his terminal’s safety board and trains new hires on workplace and highway safety and industry best practices.

Holmes is an extremely skillful driver.

Interestingly, he has competed at the Alabama Trucking Association’s state Truck Driving Championships 10-straight years, winning his division in 2004, 2009 and 2014, and thus earning the right to repre-

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

MANAGEMENT COUNCIL NEWS same thing they do each day. It’s a great way for them to keep things in order. But I also handle driver training and serve as a mentor to new drivers. Being a former supervisor gives me an overhead view from a driver’s perspective. I use that to help our guys succeed.”

Those leadership qualities were exactly what led to his nomination to Alabama’s Road Team. TCW Vice President of Business Development Gary Cornelius told Howell about the Road Team and encouraged him to apply. At the time, there wasn’t an opening, but Howell says he “pestered” ATA Director of Safety Tim Frazier for a spot. “There are only four road team captains at any given time, so I knew an opening didn’t happen often,” Howell said. “I just kept in contact with Mr. Frazier and finally got my chance to interview last fall.”

Since then, Howell, like all Road Team members, has received one-on-one training from a public speaking coach. He has also brushed up on his knowledge of the Share

sent the state at the National Truck Driving Championships.

“I love what I do for a living,” he says.

“Driving a truck for a really great company has allowed me to provide for my family. I know firsthand the many opportunities trucking offers, and I want to share that with young people.”

“I’m so proud to serve on the team,” he says. “Representing the state trucking industry is an honor. I want to do all I can to make our roads safer. If anything I do with this program saves one life then all the training and time spent will be well worth it.”

Dan Thompson FedEx Freight Mobile, Ala. Dan Thompson is a 35-year veteran truck driver based in Spanish Fort, Ala. He drives for FedEx Freight’s terminal in Theodore, Ala., near Thompson Mobile. Thompson has been with the company for 28 years and handles a daily route to Birmingham and back. In his 1.8-million miles on the road, he has never had an accident. He has pulled a myriad of rigs during his career,

The Road program and other highway safety initiatives that he will present to schools and other organizations. He has also shadowed other team members at their presentations and other functions just to get a feel for the process. He says he’s ready to get out and share his message of highway safety, and expects to deliver his first presentation this spring.

“One thing that has served me well since I started driving a truck is that I truly care about what I’m doing,” he says. “I care about my job, my employer, my coworkers, and, most importantly, my family. I want to be as safe as possible when I’m driving. I think of myself as a driver in a bubble. And what that means is, regardless of what is going on around me, I’m going to make sure I’m doing all I can to ensure those around me are safe. It doesn’t matter to me if someone is driving too fast or aggressively, I’m going to do what I need to do to make sure that person gets home to their family in one piece.

That’s all I want.”

including flatbed, dry van, twin trailers, hazmat, and even school buses. He is a diverse and crossed trained driver, and his knowledge of the transportation industry is a reflection of his vast experience.

Like other Road Team members, Dan has had plenty of success at the Alabama Truck Driving Championships. Last June he was the overall high scorer at the event to earn the 2016 Grand Champion title.

He’s been a regular at nationals competing there in 2016, 2015, 2013 and 2011.

He is also a man of many talents and interests outside of trucking. He’s a coach for a local elementary school chess club, and a self-described “health nut” who enjoys road biking, kayaking and flyfishing.

“Safety is never an afterthought for me,” he says. “The public is counting on me to drive safely under any condition or circumstance; my family is counting on me to return home safely each evening, and my employer and co-workers are counting on me to protect their image. I cannot let any of them down – that’s been my mission my entire career. I now have an opportunity to showcase the trucking industry’s efforts in safety and professionalism.”

For more information, contact Tim Frazier at 334-834-3983 or tfrazier@alabamatrucking.org.

Free vehicle maintenance whitepaper from J.J. Keller While FMCSA regulations require carriers to have a systematic and effective maintenance program, they do not specify what it must include. Devising and implementing a plan is left up to the carrier to decide what to do when it comes to maintaining equipment.

And if that program is not adequate, it will be evident to officers on the road, investigators, and auditors. J.J. Keller expert Tom Bray looks at best practices for structuring and operating an effective and systematic maintenance program in his whitepaper, Putting It All Together – Components of an Effective, Compliant Vehicle Maintenance. Download it for free at https://www.jjkeller.com CVSA appoints new director of roadside inspection program The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance recently announced that Kerri Wirachowsky joined the Alliance as director of roadside inspection program.

Wirachowsky was employed by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation from 1987 to 2016 and actively involved in the commercial motor vehicle enforcement program since 1990. Most recently, she served as the head of enforcement program evaluation. Wirachowsky has extensive experience with commercial motor vehicle regulations, enforcement and processes, a proven comprehensive understanding of the transportation safety industry, sound knowledge of the government’s role, strategic direction and policy agendas, and a commitment to advancing CVSA’s mission, vision and goals.

“Kerri’s impressive professional background features relevant responsibilities, qualifications and experience that made her an appropriate fit and a natural choice to join the Alliance in this newly created position,” said CVSA Executive Director Collin Mooney. “In addition, drawing from her extensive knowledge of both Canadian and American regulations, we believe the Alliance will benefit from bolstered Canadian-American partnerships, enforcement consistency and uniformity across borders, and well established cross-country connections with Kerri as the director of the roadside inspection program.”

Wirachowsky is no stranger to CVSA. In 2001, she was named the Jimmy K. Ammons Grand Champion, the highest honor a roadside inspector can achieve, at the CVSA Continued on page 16

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

15

News North American Inspectors Championship (NAIC) in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She went on to then serve as co-chair for NAIC from 2003 to 2007 and continued to be a key organizer and authority for NAIC beyond her term.

Wirachowsky has also been a CVSA-certified North American Standard Level I Inspection instructor since 1996 and delivered inservice/refresher training to existing inspectors and educated and developed new CVSA trainers in Canada. In addition, Wirachowsky chaired the CVSA Vehicle Committee from 2007 to 2016, setting a high standard of excellence in that leadership position. During her tenure as chair, the Vehicle Committee revised, developed, improved and clarified several aspects of the out-of-service criteria based on collaborative input from stakeholders.

Most recently within the Alliance, Wirachowsky served as president of Region V on the CVSA Board of Directors.

“I am honored to be a part of the CVSA team and welcome the opportunity to contribute to the Alliance to ensure the ongoing improvement of commercial motor vehicle enforcement in this environment of rapid change,” said Wirachowsky. “I sincerely believe in the vision and mission of this organization and its overall goal of ensuring the safe and efficient movement of people and goods throughout North America. The future of the Alliance will be very exciting and challenging and I am excited to be a part of it.”

As director of roadside inspection program, Wirachowsky will serve as the primary resource and expert on roadside enforcement and inspection issues for headquarters staff, CVSA membership, the media, industry, the general public, government agencies and other internal/external stakeholders. Based on her extensive experience with commercial vehicle enforcement, Wirachowsky will offer advice and counsel on roadside enforcement and inspection regulations, legislation, out of service criteria, inspection procedures and operational policies.

Owner of chameleon carrier incarcerated for his role in scheme J.J. Keller & Associates reports a reincarnated carrier scheme results in jail time for 16

the former owner of the trucking companies involved in the case.

For his role, the owner was sentenced in federal court to 10 months’ imprisonment and 36 months’ supervised release, and ordered to pay a $3,000 fine. The judge also signed a $34,959 Forfeiture Order.

The defendant had been charged previously with the use of a facility in interstate commerce to promote an unlawful activity. He admitted to knowingly and intentionally using a reincarnated carrier’s name when submitting registration documents to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

In December 2014, FMCSA had issued an unsatisfactory safety rating to the original registration, ordering the company to cease all transportation in interstate and intrastate commerce. The defendant, with the assistance of others, created a new carrier name. By March 2015, FMCSA issued an Operations Out-of-Service Order and a Record Consolidation Order to both carriers. The carriers were ordered by FMCSA to cease all motor carrier operations.

The investigation revealed that the former owner continued to dispatch trucks and drivers from the original motor carrier. He also used its bank account to receive proceeds of its operations and pay its expenses, using other motor carriers to conceal its operations.

He maintained related records and conducted the business of the trucking company at its offices in Bensalem, Pennsylvania.

Survey sheds light on risky American driving behaviors Last year (2016) was the deadliest year on American roadways since 2007, according to the National Safety Council (NSC).

NSC estimates show that as many as 40,000 people were killed in motor vehicle accidents, and an additional 4.6 million people were injured. The cost to society could equal $432 billion.

An NSC survey, released last month, sheds light on some risky American driving habits.

The survey reveals that 64 percent of us are comfortable speeding. Another 47 percent of drivers admitted to texting (either manually or through voice controls). A further 13 percent of drivers own up to driving after using marijuana and 10 percent say they have driven while impaired by alcohol.

Data for NSC’s motor vehicle fatality estimates comes from the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, and includes fatalities occurring on public and private roadways (e.g., parking lots and driveways).

To combat the alarming upward trend in roadway deaths, NSC urges the adoption of the several key measures such as mandated ig-

nition interlocks for convicted drunk drivers and better education about the nature of impairment; automated enforcement techniques; extended laws banning all cell phone use; upgrading seat belt laws from secondary to primary enforcement and extending restraint laws to every passenger in every seating position; developing a three-tiered licensing system for all new drivers under 21; standardize and accelerate fleet automotive safety technologies with life-saving potential, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and adaptive headlights; pass or reinstate motorcycle helmet laws; and adopt comprehensive pedestrian safety programs.

Bus and truck groups ask DOT to delay fitness determination rule According to a recent report from Transport Topics, several dozen truck and bus trade organizations recently asked Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao to rescind and put on delay a proposed carrier safety fitness determination rule based on the federal Compliance, Safety, Accountability program’s scoring system.

“Our major concern with the proposal is that the new proposed methodology utilizes flawed Compliance, Safety and Accountability program/Safety Measurement System data and scores, which Congress directed the [Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration] to review and reform just months earlier in the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Systems [FAST] Act enacted in December of 2015,” the Feb. 15 letter said.

According to TT, the letter also said the reforms are in process with initiation of a study by the National Academy of Sciences expected in June of this year.

“As representatives of the commercial motor vehicle operator industry representing property and passenger carriers, we do not believe it makes sense to build a new safety fitness determination system upon a flawed system that is currently undergoing congressionally mandated review and reform and is likely to change,” it said.

The letter was signed on by national and state organizations ranging from American Trucking Associations and the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association to the National Association of Motorcoach Operators and the National Association of Small Trucking Companies. “While we support the goal of an easily understandable, rational safety fitness determination system, this proposal is built on a flawed foundation,” the letter said. By Transport Topics Continued on page 20 A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

WH Thomas Oil Co. Clanton, AL 205-755-2610 Decatur, AL 256-351-0744

www.thomasoil.com

Think of us as your lubrication experts for the long haul.

As your Chevron Distributor, we do more than just offer high quality motor oils, transmission fluids and gear lubricants for your fleet. We provide effective lubrication solutions that can reduce your operating costs and improve your bottom line.

Whether it’s performing an oil analysis, helping with inventory management or any other service, we’re always ready to help minimize downtime, extend maintenance intervals and the life of your engines so your entire business is always in high gear.

And that’s good for your bottom line

News Air Force helps airmen obtain CDLs The Air Force is taking steps to turn government vehicle operator certifications into commercial driver’s licenses. By creating a course to mirror the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators Commercial Driver’s License Test System model, the Air Force will enable examiners to certify government motor vehicle operators on commercial vehicle equivalents in accordance with federal motor vehicle safety regulations.

“This (will) ensure everyone is working off the same sheet of music,” said Senior Master Sgt. Thomas Karnes, the Air Force logistics vehicle operations superintendent.

“Once the program is wholly accepted and recognized by each state’s DMV, the intent is to provide a one-for-one swap for a military license to obtain a CDL for the applicable vehicle, without taking the additional

20

tests. This helps us transition veterans into the commercial sector as well.”

Seven installations have been selected to test and evaluate the new certification process: Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri; MacDill AFB, Florida; Seymour-Johnson AFB, North Carolina; Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia; and Yokota, Misawa and Kadena Air Bases in Japan.

“Pending getting our examiners through the required training, we are looking at 50 locations up and running by October 2017,” Karnes said.

The Airmen examiners will undergo a 40hour AAMVA certification course to learn how to administer and score the exam, until an Air Force-run course is developed.

“This new program gives us a standardized method in deciding whether or not a member is actually competent enough to operate these vehicles on their own,” said Staff Sgt. Bradley Opfar, the NCO in charge of training validations and operations at Kadena AB, and a recent AAMVA course graduate. “I really feel like TVO offices are going to greatly benefit from receiving this training and implementing this program. I believe this training will be very beneficial for me [when I separate] because I have received the same type of training that commercial driving license examiners

receive in order to certify civilians on commercial motor vehicles.”

Once test locations are identified and examiners are trained, Airmen may visit a vehicle control officer at certified installations to take the required CDL training.

FMCSA to reopen comment period on fleets’ request for hair testing Mark Schremmer of Land Line reports that there’s still time for those wanting to comment on several big fleets’ request to use hair testing in lieu of urinalysis for pre-employment screenings of truck drivers.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration plans to reopen the comment period on Friday, Feb. 24, after the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations’ Transportation Trades Department and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters requested 60-day extensions. The comment period had closed on Feb. 21.

Urinalysis satisfies the current FMCSA drug and alcohol testing requirements. However in January, J.B. Hunt Transport, Schneider National Carriers, Werner Enterprises, Knight Transportation, Dupre Logistics and Maverick Transportation requested an exemption, because they said they believe their data “demonstrates that hair analysis is a more reli-

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

able and comprehensive basis for ensuring detection of controlled substance use.”

An exemption would allow the applicable companies to discontinue pre-employment urine testing for commercial driver’s license holders and use hair testing exclusively. Currently, the six carriers use hair analysis as a method for pre-employment drug testing, but it must be voluntary because urine testing is the only screening method accepted under the regulations. If the FMCSA approves the exemption, any driver who tests positive for a controlled substance through a hair test would be sidelined until he or she completes the return-to-duty process.

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association submitted its comments on Feb. 21, urging the FMCSA not to grant an exemption “for an unproven methodology using non-standardized procedures and protocols that could possibly affect the livelihood of thousands of drivers.”

OOIDA noted the low number of fatality crashes involving truck drivers cited for being under the influence of drugs or alcohol and questioned some of the potential problems with hair testing.

“Some of the concerns for using hair testing for controlled substance are hair color and texture bias,” OOIDA wrote. “There has been past studies that indicate that those with

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

darker hair are more likely to show longer periods of time where drug use can be detected.”

Being around someone who is taking a drug, such as marijuana, could potentially yield a positive result for a controlled substance when using a hair test, OOIDA said.

The Association said the fleets didn’t offer any evidence that should allow them to abandon the “time tested method” of urinalysis for a method with many question marks.

“The applicants have presented no evidence that the hair testing labs have met the rigorous standards of scientific methodology for testing, nor have they shown that the hair testing equipment and protocol have been consistent and unbiased,” OOIDA wrote.

Written comments regarding the possible exemption will be able to be submitted at Regulations.gov or by mailing Docket Services, U.S. Department of Transportation, Room W12-140; 1200 New Jersey Ave. SE; Washington, DC 20590-0001, or by fax at 202493-2251.

Comments must be received within 60 days of the notice’s publication in the Federal Register.

TMC taps Glen McDonald General Chairman The American Trucking Associations’

Technology & Maintenance Council announced that Glen McDonald, Ozark Motor Lines, Memphis, Tenn., has been elected 2017-2018 general chairman and treasurer during the organization’s Annual Meeting.“Glen has been a model TMC member and an example of the type of professional standard our council strives to set.

I’m pleased to see him elected as TMC general chairman and treasurer,” said Carl Kirk, ATA vice president of maintenance, information technology & logistics and TMC executive director.McDonald, who served this past year as the Council’s vice chairman and chairman of meetings, replaces Doug White, vice president of maintenance of Dunbar Armored, in the role.“Being recognized like this by my peers in TMC is a tremendous honor, one I am humbled to receive,” White said, “I want to thank the membership of TMC for the opportunity and thank Doug for his service to our organization.”“This year has been an incredible honor for me and I want to thank my fellow TMC members for it,” White said.

“As I hand off the chairmanship of TMC, I want to congratulate Glen on his election and wish him luck. I’m sure he will be a fantastic leader for our Council.”

Find out more about TMC online at http://tmc.trucking.org.

21

ROUNDUP T RU C K I N G I N D U S T RY

Trucking industry should see better year in 2017

Despite enduring what now appears to have been a “freight recession” last year, American Trucking Associations’ chief economist, Bob Costello, predicts a better 2017 for American truckers.

“The economy is growing a little faster…

I think this year will be better for the industry,” Costello said Feb. 23 at the 14th Annual Recruitment and Retention Conference here. “We’re going to need all the driv-

ers we can get.”

While Costello said the industry was short 48,000 drivers when he last fully examined the numbers in the fall of 2015, he said that figure could soar to 175,000 by 2024 – and that could spell trouble for the industry, he warned.

According to him, the projected need for about 89,000 drivers a year for the next 10 years, but that is complicated by the fact that the average driver is 49 years old and thus closer to retirement than the start of his career.

Senate President Pro Tem outlines upcoming senate issues including Alabama’s infrastructure needs

By Dana Beyerle, Business Council of Alabama Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh today addressed the Business Council of Alabama’s Governmental Affairs Committee and outlined issues the Senate will deal with this session such as Alabama’s infrastructure needs.

The BCA schedules a meeting each Tuesday morning during regular legislative sessions and features legislators and policy makers for BCA members.

Today’s meeting was sponsored by BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama.

Robin Stone, vice president of governmental affairs for Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Alabama introduces Sen. Marsh.

Marsh, R-Anniston, a businessman, addressed the second morning briefing of the session that must end on or before May 22.

In addition to infrastructure needs, issues Sen. Marsh discussed include a proposed state prison bond issue of $800 million, historic building tax credits, digital goods taxation, and budgeting.

Sen. Marsh said he has had a “good meeting” on infrastructure, which the BCA is heavily involved in through the Alliance for Alabama’s Infrastructure. Alabama infrastructure needs will be the subject of Wednesday news conferences in Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, and Montgomery sponsored by the national transportation research group TRIP. The BCA is a founding member of the AAI. It’s a group consisting of business and community leaders who believe that it is time for Alabama to address growing infrastructure needs with a reasonable, long-term solution that returns Alabama’s transportation infrastructure to working order and allows future investment.

The last new investment in Alabama’s roads and bridges was in 1992.

Alabama’s infrastructure needs will continue and will need per22

That 89,000 figure equals about 25 percent of the current driver workforce, which Costello expects, even as he predicts trucking’s tonnage share to slip to 66 percent from 70 percent. Costello expects the expansion of the U.S. economy, will continue this year, predicting that growth, which was just 1.6 percent in 2016, will rise to 2.3 percent this year and 2.7 percent in 2018.

“We’re getting closer and closer to full employment, which makes it a little more difficult to find drivers,” Costello said, adding that the rate of unemployed people

manent attention, Sen. Marsh said. He said the interested parties haven’t coalesced behind one infrastructure plan but he cautioned he won’t buy into a quick fix. “I’ve asked them to look at an indexed (tax) percentage over time,” Sen. Marsh said.

He said he is working with others on a bill to extend historic building renovation tax credits that lapsed last year. Sen. Marsh said the bill will improve the Historical Rehabilitation Tax Credit program and boost the program from a B rating to an A rating.

Sen. Marsh said extending the tax credit for historical buildings cannot result in a net tax loss for the state.

“If they do not bring in revenue we don’t need them,” he said. “My goal is to turn properties into viable businesses.”

Sen. Marsh said there have been good meetings on Governor Bentley’s proposed $800 million bond issue to build four mega-prisons. “Through this process I know we can come up with legislation that can work,” he said.

He touched on the state’s two budgets by saying the General Fund will get $105 million from the BP Horizon oil spill settlement. The Education Trust Fund budget continues to be protected against proration by the Rolling Reserve Act as it was designed to do and because of that there may be a little extra money for retirement.

Sen. Marsh said that because technology is changing the marketplace, Alabama needs to address digital purchases and streaming.

Although it won’t be on the Senate agenda this session, Marsh said he is working on an education master plan from kindergarten through higher education that will include school choice.

“The state has to develop this,” Marsh said, “My goal is whoever is the next governor the Legislature will have an education road map. If we don’t get the education system under control we are in trouble.”

He has sponsored legislation would increase the tax credit scholarship donation limit for individuals from $50,000 to $75,000 and establish procedures for businesses claiming a credit against the utility gross receipts tax.

Sen. Marsh said he has an excellent working relationship with House Speaker Mac McCutcheon, R-Monrovia, who opened the 2017 legislative session’s Tuesday briefings last month.

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

per job opening has sunk to 1.4 today from nearly 7 in 2009.

Costello also forecasts the turnover rate in the truckload sector, which was down between 80-84 percent in 2016, to rise this year.

On the positive side, Costello said the industry is “finally clearing out” the excess inventory in the supply chain.

“At the same time we had a freight recession, we bought too many trucks,” he said.

On a more controversial note, Costello criticized President Trump’s highly touted hopes of reworking the North American Free Trade Agreement with Canada and Mexico.

“Trade and trucking are synonymous,” Costello said. “Let’s not blow up NAFTA.” He then quoted an unidentified fellow economist as saying, “Fear microchips, not Mexicans.” Along that theme of technology costing more American jobs than competition from cheap foreign labor, Costello said that U.S. factory output is up 75 percent since 1990, but employment in that sector is down 31 percent. Automation actually benefits trucking because all those products need to be delivered, and those laid-off factory workers can help solve the driver shortage.

In contrast, Costello said the mandatory installation of electronic logging devices by December in all trucks — most of which don’t have them now — will reduce produc-

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

tivity by limiting the number of miles driven because hours-of-service limits will be impossible to evade. He said 2-3 percent of carriers and drivers might be so resistant to ELDs that they’ll leave the industry.

NAFTA freight up 0.4 percent from last year, truck freight down 2 percent U.S.-NAFTA December freight totaled $87.1 billion as three out of five major transportation modes carried more freight by value with North American Free Trade Agreement partners Canada and Mexico compared to December 2015, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). The December total represented a 0.4 percent increase from the previous year.

Trucks carried 61.9 percent of U.S.NAFTA freight and continued to be the most heavily utilized mode for moving goods to and from both NAFTA nations, BTS reported. Trucks accounted for $27.4 billion of the $46.8 billion of imports, or 58.6 percent and $26.4 billion of the $40.3 billion of exports, or 65.6 percent.

The value of commodities moving by pipeline increased 30.9 percent, vessel by 2.0 percent, and rail by 0.9 percent. Air decreased

by 1.4 percent and truck by 2.0 percent. The large percentage increase in the value of goods moving by pipeline was largely due to a 40 percent increase in the year-over-year price of crude oil, according to BTS. Rail remained the second largest mode by value, moving 15.2 percent of all NAFTA freight, followed by vessel, 6.5 percent; pipeline, 6.1 percent; and air, 4.2 percent.

The surface transportation modes of truck, rail and pipeline carried 83.1 percent of the total value of NAFTA freight flows.

From December 2015 to December 2016, the value of U.S.-Canada freight flows decreased by 1.2 percent to $44.5 billion. The value of truck freight decreased by 2.1 percent, rail by 5.4 percent, and vessel by 20.8 percent. The value of commodities moved in pipeline increased by 28.7 percent, reflecting the increased value of mineral fuels year over year. Air increased by 1.1 percent.

Trucks carried 56.7 percent of the value of the freight to and from Canada. Rail carried 15.2 percent followed by pipeline, 11.0 percent; air, 5.0 percent; and vessel, 3.6 percent.

The surface transportation modes of truck, rail and pipeline carried 82.9 percent of the value of total U.S.-Canada freight flows.

From December 2015 to December 2016, the value of U.S.-Mexico freight increased by Continued on page 24

23

ROUNDUP T RU C K I N G I N D U S T RY

2.1 percent to $42.6 billion as the value of freight on three out of five major modes increased from a year earlier. The value of commodities moved in pipeline increased by 66.1 percent, vessel by 14.9 percent, and rail by 8.4 percent, BTS reported. Truck decreased by 1.9 percent and air by 5.2 percent.

Trucks carried 67.2 percent of the value of the freight to and from Mexico. Rail carried 15.2 percent of the value of freight to and from Mexico followed by vessel, 9.6 percent; air, 3.4 percent; and pipeline, 0.9 percent.

The surface transportation modes of truck, rail and pipeline carried 83.3 percent of the value of total U.S.-Mexico freight flows.

Trump administration recent regs order challenged in court James Jalliet of Commercial Carrier Journal reports that a lawsuit filed in federal court Wednesday seeks to block a recent order from President Trump directing federal agencies to repeal two existing regulations for each new one enacted. Plaintiffs cite truck safety regs, including the DOT’s recently proposed speed limiter mandate, and federal truck emissions

standards as reasons why they want the court to issue an injunction against the order.

Left-leaning groups Public Citizen, the Natural Resources Defense Council and a branch of the AFL-CIO filed the suit, naming Trump, the U.S. government and new Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, among a list of other executive branch employees, as defendants in the case.

The plaintiffs argue Trump exceeded Constitutional authority with the order and also prompt agencies to slash rules meant to protect workers, the public and the environment.

White House says the order is meant to ensure regulations already on the books “are meeting their intent and not stifling job creation at the extent of whatever they were intended to do.”

Specifically cited in the lawsuit is a September-proposed rule from the U.S. DOT to require heavy-duty trucks to use speed governors to cap speeds at either 60, 65 or 68 mph. “Despite the proposed rule’s huge net benefits to society, including to plaintiffs’ members, the rule will fall within the scope of the Executive Order and cannot be finalized…until other regulations are repealed.”

It’s yet unclear whether the DOT under Trump will continue to pursue the speed limiter mandate, two-for-one order aside. Western States Trucking Associations’ head of regulatory affairs, Joe Rajkovacz, told CCJ last

ATA leaders accepting nominations for Webb Award A highlight of the Alabama Trucking Association’s Annual Convention is presentation of the H. Chester Webb Award for Distinguished Service, which recognizes the leadership and community involvement by an individual of the state’s trucking industry. Criteria are based upon the nominee’s record of service in three categories: service to the industry, to the Alabama Trucking Association, and to their local community.

The purpose of the Award is to recognize such members’ leadership, and to foster and encourage public service by members of the highway transportation industry.

Named for its donor, the Webb Award characterizes the service and leadership of a man well known and beloved throughout Alabama and national transportation circles for his own dedication to industry advancement and public service.

Nominations are being accepted from any ATA member. Please nominate a person you believe best exemplifies the attributes as described above. A panel of prior award recipients will determine the winner and that individual will be announced during ATA’s Annual Convention’s Award Banquet on Saturday, April 22.

The Webb Award has been given to 51 individual since its creation in 1958. Recent winners include Jack Fricks (2007); Harold Sorrells (2008); Drew Linn (2009); Gene Vonderau (2010): T.J. Willings (2011); Buck Moore (2012); Bill Scruggs (2013); Gail Cooper (2014); Frank Filgo (2015); and Tom McLeod (2016).

Official nominating form is available here. Email the nomination form to Jane Nixon at jnixon@alabamatrucking.org or fax to 334-262-6504 by close of business Tuesday, April 4, 2016.

24

month that Trump’s regulatory policies are the “death knell” for the speed limiter mandate.

The Jan. 8 lawsuit against Trump’s order also claims the two-for-one proposition jeopardizes emissions regulations that plaintiffs say protect public health and the environment.

“To repeal two regulations for the purpose of adopting one would be arbitrary, capricious, an abuse of discretion, and contrary to the Clean Air Act,” plaintiffs argue in the lawsuit.

Harrell named first executive director of Alliance for Alabama’s Infrastructure The Alliance for Alabama’s Infrastructure recently announced officers and its first executive director, Drew Harrell, whose mission is to continue advocating and guiding grassroots efforts to enhance Alabama’s road and bridge infrastructure.

In a recent meeting, the AAI board of directors elected a slate of officers to lead AAI efforts in 2017. And Business Council of Alabama (BCA) deputy chief of staff Harrell was named the first executive director of the AAI and will manage the organization, communication, and advocacy efforts of the Alliance.

Harrell earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Huntingdon College in 2011 and a Master of Business Administration from Auburn University Montgomery in 2013.

Harrell was a four-year letterman in baseball and football at Huntingdon College and he is a member of the National Football Foundation’s 2011 Hampshire Honor Society.

Harrell is a member of the Huntingdon College National Alumni Association Board of Directors.

“With infrastructure investment becoming a top issue at the federal level and in a majority of states across our nation, the AAI remains focused on raising awareness within the Legislature and local communities on the critical nature of Alabama’s transportation system and the immediate need to improve and invest in transportation infrastructure at the state and local levels,” Harrell said.

He also said, “I am honored to represent such a great group of business and community leaders from all across the state. This is an issue I am extremely passionate about because I have seen the infrastructure needs in Lowndes County all of my life and it’s imperative for rural counties such as it to enhance its infrastructure in order to grow economically.”

Harrell said, “I’m excited to be able to advocate for an issue that will directly benefit my hometown.”

Harrell came to the BCA in 2011 as exA LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

ecutive assistant to the president and later was given expanded duties as deputy chief of staff and strategic operations coordinator responsible for helping manage the daily activities of BCA including overseeing the operations of the BCA executive committee and the 100-plus member BCA board of directors consisting of the top business leaders in Alabama. He is also a member of BCA’s Advocacy Team and serves a key role in implementing BCA’s legislative agenda.

The Alliance for Alabama’s Infrastructure (AAI) is a grassroots advocacy coalition formed in December 2015 with the mission of uniting the business community and like-minded groups behind the common goal of properly investing in and enhancing Alabama’s transportation infrastructure in order to ensure that the safety and economic needs of Alabama’s citizens, businesses, and other organizations are properly met.

For more information regarding the Alliance for Alabama’s Infrastructure’s efforts, please visit the AAI website at www.alabamaroads.org.

Coleman Worldwide Moving CEO elected BCA Chairman Coleman Worldwide Moving President and CEO, Jeff Coleman, was recently hon-

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

ored at a reception presented by both the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce and the Business Council of Alabama (BCA). The reception was attended by many Dothan and Wiregrass Area community leaders along with leaders and staff for the BCA. The gathering was held at the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce and was held to recognize Coleman’s election as the 2017 Chairman for the Business Council of Alabama.

Coleman’s chairmanship Coleman honors him with another accolade as a community and industry leader.

In recent years, Jeff has served as Chairman for the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Alabama Commission on Higher Education (ACHE), Chairman of International Association of Movers, among other board and elected positions throughout the city, state, and industry. The chairmanship offers Coleman the chance to directly and aggressively influence the business culture in Alabama, which includes promoting improved infrastructure development throughout the state, advocating for afford-

able and adequate health care throughout the business community alongside Alabama citizens, and to increase support for better education pertaining to workforce development in hopes of creating skilled workers for all businesses within the state.

“I consider it a great honor to be elected to this position and to be honored at a venue where I served one of my first leadership positions for a larger business community,” stated Jeff Coleman. “With Coleman Worldwide Moving representing the trucking, transportation, and moving and storage industry, I feel presents me with a unique perspective for influencing Alabama leaders to grow and improve the state. I accept this honor with great humility and hope that we can make a meaningful impact for Alabama for 2017 and many years to come.” The Dothan Chamber of Commerce building also offers sentimental value for Coleman. It is the current home to the Dothan Business Hall of Fame where Jeff’s father, James F. Coleman, was inducted and honored in 2015.

Continued on page 26

25

ROUNDUP

Nearly 56,000 American bridges on structurally deficient list

T RU C K I N G I N D U S T RY

Chad Willoughby appointed president of Farris Evans Insurance

Stan Evans (left) and Chadwick Willoughby

Farris Evans Insurance Agency has restructured the ownership of the privately held firm to ensure future decades of success. Effective immediately Vice President Chadwick Willoughby becomes a major equity holder of the company and promoted to President & CEO. He is the third president of the agency in its sixty-two years of operation, and the first person outside the Evans family to have a position on the board of directors or to hold an official office.

The agency, which specializes in trucking and transportation insurance, has been driven for the past thirty-three years by Stan Evans leading a core group of devoted employees. Evans, the firm’s majority owner, has mentored Willoughby at FEIA for the past five years and is transitioning from being the firm’s President to taking on a new role as CEO.

26

Willoughby, a graduate of University of Memphis, brings fifteen years of commercial insurance experience to the position, and has earned four commercial insurance designations: CIC, TRS, CWCC, and CLCS. Building on the solid foundation established by the Evans family, this promotion of Willoughby brings new energy and ambition for future growth of the company, which is likely to see a continuation of rapid transitions in both technology and regulation.

Farris Evans, Sr. founded the firm in 1955 after serving in the Navy during World War II. The elder Evans passed died in 2006 knowing that the agency would continue to thrive with his son, Stan, as company president.

Today, the agency remains one of the last independently owned agencies in the transportation insurance business with a new generation of leadership taking the helm.

The length of the nation’s structurally deficient bridges if placed end-to-end would stretch 1,276 miles, half the distance from New York to Los Angeles, a new examination of federal government data shows. It’s a problem that hits close to home.

An analysis of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (U.S. DOT) recently-released 2016 National Bridge Inventory data finds cars, trucks and school buses cross the nation’s 55,710 structurally compromised bridges 185 million times daily. About 1,900 are on the Interstate Highway System. State transportation departments have identified 13,000 Interstate bridges that need replacement, widening or major reconstruction.

The inventory of structurally deficient bridges has declined 0.5 percent since the 2015 report. At that pace, it would take more than two decades to replace or repair all of them, according to American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) Chief Economist Dr. Alison Premo Black, who conducted the analysis.

Black says the data shows 28 percent of bridges (173,919) are over 50 years old and have never had any major reconstruction Continued on page 28

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

ROUNDUP T RU C K I N G I N D U S T RY

work in that time.

“America’s highway network is woefully underperforming. It is outdated, overused, underfunded and in desperate need of modernization,” Black says. “State and local transportation departments haven’t been provided the resources to keep pace with the nation’s bridge needs.”

To help ensure public safety, bridge decks and support structures are regularly inspected for deterioration and remedial action. They are rated on a scale of zero to nine—with nine meaning the bridge is in “excellent” condition. A bridge is classified as structurally deficient and in need of repair if its overall rating is four or below.

While these bridges may not be imminently unsafe, they are in need of attention.

Other key findings in the ARTBA analysis: Iowa (4,968), Pennsylvania (4,506), Oklahoma (3,460), Missouri (3,195), Nebraska (2,361), Illinois (2,243), Kansas (2,151), Mississippi (2,098), Ohio (1,942) and New York (1,928) have the most structurally deficient bridges. The District of Columbia (9), Nevada (31), Delaware (43), Hawaii (64) and

28

Utah (95) have the least.

At least 15 percent of the bridges in eight states—Rhode Island (25 percent), Iowa (21 percent), Pennsylvania (20 percent), South Dakota (20 percent), West Virginia (17 percent), Nebraska (15 percent), North Dakota (15 percent) and Oklahoma (15 percent)— fall in the structurally deficient category.

State—and congressional district—specific information from the analysis—including rankings and the locations of the 250 most heavily travelled structurally deficient bridges in the nation and top 25 most heavily traveled in each state—is available at www.artbabridgereport.org.

Mississippi, New Mexico advance bills to set stiff punishment for cargo theft

By Keith Goble, Land Line state legislative editor | Friday, February 17, 2017 Efforts in Mississippi and New Mexico, which are intended to deter the theft of truck, rail or container cargo through stiff punishment, have cleared hurdles.

According to FreightWatch International, Mississippi and New Mexico rank in the top half of states in the number of cargo thefts.

Florida, California, Texas, New Jersey and Georgia are in the top five.

Florida, Georgia, New Jersey and Texas are among the states with rules in place that make cargo theft a specific crime with stiff punishment for offenders.

Advocates say that cargo theft by organized crime rings has become a very serious problem across the nation. The FBI says cargo theft causes $15 billion to $30 billion in losses each year.

The Mississippi House voted 109-9 to advance a bill to establish cargo theft as a specific offense and impose felony charges with escalating fines and punishment based on the value of goods.

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, which has about 2,130 members residing in Mississippi, says the legislative effort to deter cargo theft is a reasonable and overdue deterrent intended to better protect the livelihood of the men and women that help drive the economy.

Mike Matousek, OOIDA director of state legislative affairs, said cargo theft is bad for everyone involved in the supply chain, especially truck drivers.

“When a trucker becomes the victim of theft, it can be financially devastating,” Matousek said. “Such an occurrence could effectively put our members, the majority of whom are single truck owner-operators, out of business.

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

“The same goes for those involved in seasonal operations as they miss out on a year’s income in a short period of time.”

In an effort to discourage thefts in Mississippi, HB722 calls for offenders to face prison in addition to monetary penalties. Specifically, thieves who steal cargo from trucks loaded with controlled substances, or pharmaceuticals, valued at less than $10,000 would face fines up to $100,000 and/or up to 10 years in prison.

Theft of controlled substances valued up to $1 million could result in as much as 25 years behind bars and/or fines up to $1 million.

Loads valued in excess of $1 million could result in prison terms as long as 30 years and/or fines up to $1 million.

Violators of other property heists valued as much as $1,000 would face misdemeanor charges. Theft of cargo valued as high as $10,000 would include fines up to $100,000 and/or 10 years behind bars. Stolen loads valued in excess of $10,000 could result in 20 years in prison and/or fines up to $1 million.

Another provision in the bill covers fifth wheels, and any antitheft locking device attached to the fifth wheel. Any attempt to alter, move or sell a fifth wheel could result in 10-year prison terms and/or $100,000 fines.

The bill awaits assignment to committee in the Senate.

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

In New Mexico, the Senate Public Affairs Committee has forwarded a bill to establish the theft of trailer or container cargo as a specific offense and impose significant punishment.

The bill, SB74, would authorize seconddegree felony charges. Offenders would face up to nine years in prison and fines up to the fair market value of the property stolen and the cost of recovering the property.

National ATA lends supports to new Atlanta truck show American Trucking Associations has announced its support of the North American Commercial Vehicle Show, a new biennial truck show to be held in Atlanta later this year.

“As the nation’s foremost trucking industry association, it only made sense for ATA to support our supplier community, many of whom have committed to this endeavor,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “The North American Commercial Vehicle Show promises to be an excellent event and we are pleased to be a part of it.”

The show is scheduled to take place Sept.

25-29 in Atlanta at the Georgia World Congress Center. The show is focused on fleet decision makers and influencers. Leading truck

and trailer manufacturers and commercial vehicle parts and components suppliers will demonstrate their latest product offerings on the show floor.

The show opens on Sept. 25 to attendees who have received an invitation from one of the show’s exhibitors and is open to all attendees from Sept. 26 to Sept. 28. The NACVS is a joint venture between Hannover Fairs USA and Newcom Media USA that will be held every two years starting this year.

“Commercial vehicle manufacturers and suppliers have eagerly embraced the North American Commercial Vehicle Show, which has almost sold out of exhibitor space for 2017,” said Larry Turner, president and CEO of Hannover Fairs USA. “We are proud of the progress we’ve made since announcing the show last year and appreciate ATA’s support.”

IRS Issues Notice Affecting Glider Kits A couple of years ago, the federal Internal Revenue Service issued guidance to its auditors concerning glider kits. Motor carriers had been using gliders to refurbish used trucks and tractors, and using a provision of the Internal Revenue Code (section 4052(f)(1)) to accomplish the changes without the imposition of the 12 percent federal

29

ROUNDUP T RU C K I N G I N D U S T RY

excise tax on the resulting vehicles.

The IRS guidance determined that several fact patterns constituted the “remanufacture” of a vehicle, rather than its “repair or modification,” meaning that IRS auditors would no longer qualify circumstances of that type as eligible for FET exemption.

It’s our understanding that far fewer glider kits have been sold tax-exempt since that time. IRS has now issued definitions of vehicle “body” and “chassis” for purposes of the FET exemption. The law had up until now provided no such definitions. In substance, the new definition of a “chassis” is “a vehicle’s frame and supporting structure,” including such elements as the engine, axles, transmission, drive train, suspension, and cab. A vehicle “body” is the “cargo or load carrying structure,” such as a flatbed, tanker, or box body.

IRS concludes the notice with the statement: “IRS will use the definitions … to determine the threshold issue of whether a [vehicle] has been repaired or modified. In other words, the [exemption from FET] may be applied … only if the chassis or body being repaired or modified is identifiable as such within the meaning of the [definitions].” It is not clear to us just what this may mean in practice, but we doubt that it’s good news for motor carriers. IRS Notice 2017-5, issued February 6, 2017 is available at www.irs.gov

Alabama and other states seek to limit trucks, others in left lanes State legislatures from coast to coast continue to sort through possible rule changes to left lane use by truck drivers and motorists, according to an overview report from Land Line magazine.

Here in Alabama, law on the books specify that vehicles traveling below the normal speed of traffic must stay to the right. One House bill, HB214, would go a step further to include a blanket requirement on interstates for all vehicles, regardless of speed, to stay right except to pass.

Passing vehicles would be permitted 1.5 miles to complete the maneuver.

A separate House bill targets truck travel in the far left-hand lane.

HB18 would prohibit vehicles with three or more axles from driving in the left lane on the state’s interstates and U.S. highways with at least two lanes of traffic in one direction. The ban would also apply along 30

roadways with at least three lanes of traffic in the same direction.

Certain exceptions would apply.

OOIDA says that truckers are firsthand observers of the negative consequences of misguided traffic laws, and while perhaps not intended, efforts to restrict trucks from certain lanes pose serious challenges for truckers and jeopardize the safety of the traveling public.

Mike Matousek, OOIDA director of state legislative affairs, said that truckers contribute a significant amount of money to federal, state and local transportation accounts and they have every right to use any available lane.

A similar effort is underway in the South Carolina statehouse.

Matousek says existing keep-right laws in both states are an appropriate policy to ensure safety and maximize capacity.

Another effort to get trucks out of the far left lane is underway in Nevada.

State law now authorizes the Nevada Department of Transportation to post advisory signs on highways with at least three lanes in one direction that vehicles in excess of 26,000 pounds should stay to the right.

AB208 would go a step further to outright ban large trucks from traveling in the left lane. Certain exceptions would apply.

Meanwhile, the Virginia General Assembly has advanced a bill to the governor’s desk that is intended to deter driving in the far lefthand lane.

Virginia law requires any vehicle moving at less than the normal speed of traffic to stay to the right. However, there is no penalty for failure to follow the rule.

Speaking on the Senate floor, Sen. Bill Carrico, R-Grayson, told lawmakers the bill addresses problems with motorists who fail to follow the lane-use rule.

“If you have ever driven down the interstate and you wonder why that person never will get over from the left-hand lane, and you are honking your horn, and you are blinking your lights, and they continue to stay in that lane, well right now if you receive a signal from a driver behind you with flashing lights you are supposed to move to the right, but as we all know that fails to happen,” Carrico said.

HB2201 would impose fines of $250 for driving too slowly in the left lane. Revenues would not be allotted for transportation purposes. Instead, the money would be deposited into the state’s Literary Fund.

Senate lawmakers voted 35-5 to send the bill to Gov. Terry McAuliffe. The House already approved the bill on a 66-31 vote.

In Mississippi, the state’s House voted 89-32 in favor of a bill to permit police to ticket drivers lingering in the far left lanes

of multilane highways.

The rule has been in place for the state’s interstate highways since 1972.

Sponsored by Rep. Charles Busby, RPascagoula, the bill would expand the state’s rule to require travelers on multilane roadways to stay to the right except when overtaking or passing another vehicle. Also, drivers would be exempt if they are in the left lane to turn or exit.

Supporters, including OOIDA and the National Motorists Association, say that blocking the left lane, whether intentional or not, results in reduced road safety and efficiency.

HB511 awaits further consideration in the Senate Highways and Transportation, and Judiciary Division B committees.

Michigan law already requires drivers on roadways with at least two lanes of traffic in one direction to stay to the far right unless traffic flow is “substantially continuous.” Left lane use is also permitted to overtake and pass another vehicle.

On highways with at least three lanes of traffic, a motorist is free to use any available lane. However, large trucks are limited to the far right lanes.

A bill from Rep. Robert Kosowski, DWestland, would require motorists on highways with at least two lanes of traffic in one direction to move to the right if they know, or “reasonably should know,” a faster-moving vehicle is trying to pass.

Exceptions would be provided for situations that include preparing to turn left, when construction vehicles are working on the roadway, or when directed by law enforcement to exit a lane.

HB4062 would not set penalties.

The effort comes on the heels of a new law increasing car speeds from 70 to 75 mph and truck speeds from 60 to 65 mph on about 600 miles of rural freeways in the state.

A similar effort to keep slow-moving vehicles to the right is moving through the Montana House. Rep. Shane Morigeau, DMissoula, said during a recent committee hearing on the bill it is intended to reduce road rage.

“Have you ever seen or heard from someone who’s got a little bit of road rage because they have been boxed in, or a vehicle won’t get over? I have,” Morigeau testified. “These are not just mere annoyances. These are dangerous events that are easily preventable with just a little bit of clarification in law. It will result in safer roads for all of us.”

Although existing state law addresses left lane use, Morigeau says that law enforcement in certain counties do not even ticket violators due to uncertainty about wording in the rule.

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

PO Box 242337 • Montgomery, AL 36124-2337 • Phone: (334)834-3983 • Fax: (334)262-6504

Application For Membership DIVISION Motor Carriers:

q Domiciled In Alabama

q Household Movers

Allied Industry:

q All other For-Hire

q Local and State Suppliers q Nat’l Concerns, small items

q Private Carriers

q Nat’l Concerns, major items

Your Dues Amount: $ __________________ (see schedule on reverse)

Firm Name:________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: (PO Box)____________________________________ (Street)__________________________________________________ City__________________________________________ State__________________________

Zip________________________

Telephone:__________________________________ Fax______________________________ 800/__________________________ Email address:________________________________________ Website Address:__________________________________________ Type of Business:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Official Representative :__________________________________________________ Title:__________________________________ Alternate Representative:__________________________________________________ Title:__________________________________ Signed:______________________________________ Date:____________ Referred by:____________________________________

CONTRIBUTIONS OR GIFTS TO THE ALABAMA TRUCKING ASSOCIATION, INC., ARE NOT DEDUCTIBLE AS CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS. HOWEVER, THEY MAY BE TAX DEDUCTIBLE AS ORDINARY AND NECESSARY BUSINESS EXPENSES. CODE # _________________

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Freq_____________________

ACT____________________

BC____________________

Check #__________________

Exp Date__________________

ATU____________________

DC____________________

Dues Amt ________________

Nxt Bill Date_______________

MAG__________________

400____________________

Mbr Class________________

AL Sen___________________

MC____________________

WCSIF__________________

GC____________________

CONTACT SHEET__________

Mbr Type _________________

AL Hse___________________

YR____________________

WINFAX________________

Dues Cat _________________

CG Dist__________________

Date_____________________

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

LTR/PLQ________________

31

Schedule of Membership Dues

A. Motor Carriers Domiciled in Alabama

1) Gross Annual Revenue Under and not over 1,000,000 and not over 5,000,000 and not over 10,000,000 and not over 15,000,000

$999,999 4,999,999 9,999,999 14,999,999 19,999,999

Annual Dues $500 600 900 1,200 1,500

2) Gross Annual Revenue 20,000,000 and not over 25,000,000 and not over 30,000,000 and not over 35,000,000 and not over 40,000,000 and over

B. All Other For-Hire and Private Carriers Schedule based on miles traveled in Alabama From 0 500,001 1,000,001 2,000,001 3,000,001 4,000,001 5,000,001 6,000,001 7,000,001 8,000,001 9,000,001

To 500,000 1,000,000 2,000,000 3,000,000 4,000,000 5,000,000 6,000,000 7,000,000 8,000,000 9,000,000 10,000,000

Annual $200 250 360 510 640 750 870 960 1,040 1,150 1,250

From 10,000,001 11,000,001 12,000,001 13,000,001 14,000,001 15,000,001 16,000,001 17,000,001 18,000,001 19,000,001 20,000,001

$24,999,999 29,999,999 34,999,999 39,999,999

To 11,000,000 12,000,000 13,000,000 14,000,000 15,000,000 16,000,000 17,000,000 18,000,000 19,000,000 20,000,000 25,000,000

Annual Dues $1,800 2,100 2,400 2,700 3,000 Annual $1,320 1,410 1,495 1,575 1,650 1,720 1,795 1,865 1,950 2,030 2,500

C. Allied Industry – Annual Dues • Local and State Suppliers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $300 • National Concerns (distributors or manufactuers of accessories, parts and small equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $400 • National Concerns (distributors or manufacturers of major equipment, integrated product lines, leasing companies and companies marketing statewide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $600

D. Household Movers Based on intrastate revenue only - includes tariff participation

1) Gross Annual Revenue Not Over 100,001 and not over 150,001 and not over 200,000 and not over

$100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000

Annual Dues $420 480 540 660

2) Gross Annual Revenue 250,001 and not over 300,001 and not over 400,001 and not over

Payment Schedule (Dues payable in advance)

Below $500...................................................................Annually $500 - $1,200......................................................Semi-Annually

$300,000 400,000 500,000

Annual Dues $780 900 1,200

Above $1,200................................................................ Monthly

CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT – The amount of dues paid by individual members of the Alabama Trucking Association is confidential information and is not subject to publication. Dues information can only be released by ATA to the principal representative of the member in question, and requests by other persons or parties will not be honored. Members are strongly urged to honor this privacy statement and to not share their confidential dues information with other ATA members or the general public.

32

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017

2017 ATA Buyer’s Guide

We make every effort to ensure this list is correct. For changes or corrections to your company’s listing, contact Jane Nixon at jnixon@alabamatrucking.org.

Alabama Trucking Assn.’s Buyer’s Guide lists those companies that have taken an active role in supporting Alabama’s trucking industry by becoming members of the Association. We ask that each time you plan a purchase that you consult this guide and give ATA members the opportunity to gain your business. These companies proudly support your association and deserve your support, as well.

ADVERTISING/PUBLISHING Daniel Signs (205) 229-3115 www.danielsignsinc.com

ENGINE MANUFACTURERS Cummins Sales & Service (901) 488-8033 www.salesandservice.cummins.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES BancorpSouth Equipment Finance (205) 422-7111 www.bxsequipmentfinance.com

Randall-Reilly (205) 349-2990 www.randallreilly.com

Thompson/Caterpillar (205) 849-4365 www.thompsontractor.com

BB & T Commercial Banking (205) 445-2464 www.bbt.com

BUS SALES & SERVICE Southland International Trucks, Inc. (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com

EQUIPMENT LEASING CB Repair & Trailer Maintenance, Inc. (205) 753-4495

Transportation South, Inc. (205) 663-2287 www.thebuscenter.com Ward International Trucks, LLC (251) 433-5616 www.wardintltrucks.com CHEMICAL PRODUCTS Rushing Enterprises, Inc. (334) 693-3318 www.rushingenterprises.com COMMUNICATIONS/ELECTRONICS AllCOMM Wireless (334) 264-4552 www.allcomm.com J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. (920) 722-2848 www.jjkellerservices.com Omnitracs, LLC (615) 594-7565 www.omnitracs.com Orbcomm, Inc. (703) 433-7763 www.orbcomm.com

KLLM/Equipment Solutions LLC (205) 515-1478 www.equipmentsolution.com Metro Trailer Rental (205) 985-8701 www.metrotrailer.com Southern Truck & Equipment, Inc. (251) 653-4716 www.southerntruck.net Southland International Trucks, Inc. (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com Star Leasing Co. (205) 763-1280 www.starleasing.com

Trans Con Assurance, LTD (205) 978-7070

Cottingham and Butler (563) 587-5521 www.cottinghambutler.com Crum & Forster (334) 313-1619 www.cfins.com Dozier Insurance Agency LLC (334) 420-3798 www.doziertrucking.com

Citizens Asset Finance, Inc. (407) 734-3746

Farris Evans Insurance Agency, Inc. (901) 274-5424 www.farrisevans.com

Comdata, Inc. 615-376-6917 www.comdata.com

Great West Casualty Co. (865) 392-3752 www.gwccnet.com

Commercial Credit Group, Inc. (704) 731-0031 www.commercialcreditgroup.com

Hudgens Insurance, Inc. (334) 289-2695

Crestmark Bank 615-620-3509 www.crestmark.com Electronic Funds Source, LLC (615) 777-4619 www.efsllc.com First Tennessee Bank (615) 734-6046

JH Berry Risk Services, LLC (205) 208-1238 www.jhbrisk.com Johnson-Locklin & Associates (205) 980-8008 www.johnson-locklin.com J.R. Prewitt & Associates, Inc. (205) 397-5118 www.jrprewitt.com

TransRisk, LLC (334) 403-4114 www.transriskllc.com Transure Services, Inc. (336) 584-9494 www.transure.com Turner & Hamrick L.L.C. (334) 566-7665 www.turnerhamrick.com York Risk Services Group (205) 581-9488 www.yorkrsg.com MEDICAL/DRUG & ALCOHOL SERVICES Alabama Specialty Clinic (256) 736-1460 www.ascoccupationalhealth.com Carlisle Medical, Inc. (251) 344-7988 www.carlislemedical.com ErgoScience, Inc. (205) 879-6447 www.ergoscience.com J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. (920) 722-2848 www.jjkellerservices.com Safety First-Div. of Behavioral Health Systems (205) 443-5450 www.bhs-inc.com

EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING Eaton Corp./Roadranger Field Marketing (334) 398-1410 www.roadranger.com

People’s United Equipment Finance Corp.

(205) 664-9374 www.puefc.com

Lyon Fry Cadden Insurance (251) 473-4600 www.lyonfrycaden.com

PNC Financial Services Group (205) 767-7235 www.pnc.com

McGriff, Siebels & Williams, Inc. (205) 252-9871 www.mcgriff.com

NON-PETROLEUM FUEL PRODUCTS GAIN Clean Fuel – Div. of US Oil (804) 291-7892 www.gainfuel.com

Renasant Bank (334) 301-5955 www.renasantbank.com

Joe Morten & Sons, Inc. (865) 392-3844 www.joemorten.com

Pivotal LNG (404) 783-3550 www.pivotallng.com

ServisFirst Bank (205) 949-3433 www.servisfirstbank.com

S. S. Nesbitt (205) 262-2620 www.ssnesbitt.com

Spire Natural Gas Fueling Solutions (314) 499-5682 www.spirenaturalgas.com

TAB Bank (404) 202-4870 www.tabbank.com

One Beacon (609) 613-0010 www.onebeacontransportation.com

Trucking Partners, LLC Sales Agency & Factoring (256) 737-8788 www.truckingpartners.com

Palomar Insurance Corp.

(334) 270-0105 www.palomarinsurance.com

Wells Fargo Equipment Finance (314) 374-2165 www.wellsfargo.com

Protective Insurance Co/Baldwin & Lyons, Inc. (317) 452-7413 www.protectiveinsurance.com

Rand McNally (865) 856-0584 www.randmcnally.com

Imperial Supplies LLC (920) 496-4334 www.imperialsupplies.com

SmartDrive Systems (858) 225-5551 www.smartdrive.net

Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems 334/798-0080 www.arvinmeritor.com

DRIVER STAFFING TransForce, Inc. (205) 916-0259 www.transforce.com

Metro Trailer Repair Co., Inc. (205) 323-2877 www.metrotrailer.net Paccar Parts/Kenworth (206) 898-5541 www.kenworth.com Southern Truck & Equipment, Inc. (251) 653-4716 www.southerntruck.net Star Truck Parts (205) 324-4681

JP Transportation Safety Consulting, LLC (205) 329-8182 (205) 945-8550 www.jptsc.com

Thermo King of B’ham-Dothan-MobileMontgomery (205) 591-2424 www.midstatetk.com

Transportation Safety Services (251) 661-9700 www.transportationsafetyservices.com

Thompson/Caterpillar (205) 849-4365 www.thompsontractor.com

USA Driver-s, Inc. (205) 661-0712 www.usadrivers.com

W.W. Williams (205) 252-9025 (334) 279-6083 www.wwwilliams.com

Vertical Alliance Group, Inc. (903) 792-3866 www.lmstrucking.com

Caribou Insurance Agency, Inc. (205) 822-7577 www.caribouins.com

People’s Capital & Leasing Corp.

(205) 856-9354 www.peoples.com

EQUIPMENT PARTS/ACCESSORIES Dothan Tarpaulin Products, Inc. (800) 844-8277 www.dothantarp.com

EDUCATION & TRAINING J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. (920) 722-2848 www.jjkellerservices.com

Sterling Risk Advisors (770) 710-3404 www.sterlingra.com

Trico Trailer Leasing & Sales (205) 759-2484 www.trico.com

PeopleNet (888) 346-3486 www.peoplenetonline.com

Transportation Support, Inc. (205) 833-6336 www.transportationsupport.com

BMO Transportation Finance (770) 960-6307 www.ge.com

Benton & Parker Insurance Services (770) 536-8340 www.bentonandparker.com

INSURANCE American Claims Service, Inc. (205) 669-1177 Aon Risk Solutions (501) 374-9300 www.aon.com/transportation Aronov Insurance, Inc. (205) 414-9575 www.aronovinsurance.com BancorpSouth Insurance Services (334) 272-1200 www.bxsi.com The Baxter Agency (334) 678-5900 www.baxteragency.com BB & T Insurance Services (912) 201-4706

Liberty Mutual Group (804) 380-5169 www.libertymutual,com

Regions Insurance, Inc. (501) 661-4880 www.regions.com Regions Insurance (334) 674-9810 www.regionsinsurance.com Reliance Partners, LLC (877) 668-1704 www.reliancepartners.com

Workforce QA dba EDPM (205) 326-3100 www.edpm.com

PETROLEUM PRODUCTS Davison Fuels & Oil (251) 544-4511 Jack Green Oil Co., Inc. (256) 831-1038 Kimbro Oil Company (615) 320-7484 www.kimbrooil.com Major Oil Company, Inc. (334) 263-9070 www.unitedfoodandfuel.com The McPherson Companies, Inc. (888) 802-7500 www.mcphersonoil.com W.H. Thomas Oil Co., Inc. (205) 755-2610 www.whthomasoil.com

Robinson Group LLC d/b/a Robinson Bryant Agency (334) 356-3665 www.robinsonbryant.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Accounting Firms: Aldridge, Borden & Co. (334) 834-6640 www.aldridgeborden.com

Stephens Insurance LLC (601) 605-5681 www.stephens.com

Katz, Sapper & Miller, LLP (317) 580-2068 www.ksmcpa.com

(Current as of 02/20/2017) Warren Averett (256) 739-0312 www.warrenaverett.com

Drivewyze (780) 461-3355 www.drivewyze.com

Attorneys: Adams and Reese LLP (205) 250-5091 www.adamsandreese.com

George L. Edwards & Associates (334) 745-5166

Austill, Lewis & Pipkin, P.C. (205) 870-3767 www.maplaw.com Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, P.C. (205) 328-0480 www.bakerdonelson.com Ball, Ball, Matthews & Novak, P.A. 334-387-7680 www.ball-ball.com Carr, Allison, Pugh, Howard, Oliver & Sisson, P.C. (251) 626-9340 www.carrallison.com DeLashmet & Marchand, P.C. (251) 433-1577 www.delmar-law.com Dodson Gregory, LLP (205) 834-9170 www.dodsongregory.com Ferguson, Frost, Moore & Young LLP (205) 879-8722 www.ffmylaw.com Fisher & Phillips, LLP (404) 231-1400 www.laborlawyers.com Friedman, Dazzio, Zulanas & Bowling, P.C. (205) 278-7000 www.friedman-lawyers.com Hand Arendall LLC (251) 432-5511 www.handarendall.com Hill, Hill, Carter, Franco, Cole & Black, P.C. (334) 834-7600 www.hillhillcarter.com James M. Sizemore, Jr. (256) 409-1985 McDowell Knight Roedder & Sledge, LLC (251) 432-5300 www.mcdowellknight.com Porterfield, Harper, Mills, Motlow, Ireland PA (205) 980-5000 www.phm-law.com Speegle, Hoffman, Holman & Holifield, LLC (251) 694-1700 www.speeglehoffman.com

HELP, Inc. Provider of PrePass (931) 520-7170 www.prepass.com J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. (920) 722-2848 www.jjkellerservices.com JP Transportation Safety Consulting, LLC (205) 329-8182 (205) 329-8183 www.jptsc.com

Delta Distributors, LLC (334) 222-3671

Carrier Transicold South (404) 968-3130 www.ctsouth.com Childersburg Truck Service, Inc. (256) 378-3101 www.childersburg-truck.com Coffman International Trucks (334) 794-4111 www.coffmaninternationaltrucks.com Eufaula Trucking Co., Inc. (334) 687-0391

McLeod Software (205) 823-5100 www.mcleodsoftware.com

Lazzari Truck Repair, Inc. (251) 626-5121 www.lazzaritruckrepair.com

Motor Carrier Safety Consulting (205) 871-4455

Metro Trailer Repair Co., Inc. (205) 323-2877 www.metrotrailer.net

North American Commercial Vehicle Show (416) 459-2365 www.nacvshow.com

Rowe Management Corp.

(205) 486-9235 www.rowemachinery.com

Porter Billing Services LLC (205) 322-5442 www.porterbillingservices.com

Southern Truck Center, Inc. (205) 226-0880 www.southerntruckcenter.com

Power South Energy Cooperative (334) 427-3207 www.powersouth.com

Star Leasing Co. (205) 763-1280 www.starleasing.com

Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers (678) 378-2740 www.rbauction.com

Thompson/Caterpillar (205) 849-4365 www.thompsontractor.com

Southeast Transportation Safety, LLC (334) 798-5806

W.W. Williams (205) 252-9025 (334) 279-6083 www.wwwilliams.com

Spectrum Environmental Services, Inc. (205) 664-2000 www.specenviro.com Spire Natural Gas Fueling Solutions (314) 499-5682 www.spirenaturalgas.com Tax2290.com/ThinkTrade Inc. (615) 942-6219 www.tax2290.com TMW Systems, Inc. (440) 721-2260 www.tmwsystems.com Transportation and Logistical Services, Inc (205) 226-5500 www.tlsincorp.com Transportation Billing Solutions, LLC (205) 788-4000

Transportation Compliance Services, USA (228) 872-7160 Webster, Henry, Lyons, White, Bradwell www.dottrucksafety.com & Black, P.C. (334) 264-9472 Transportation Safety Services www.websterhenry.com (251) 661-9700 www.transportationsafetyservices.com Other Services: Trico Trailer Leasing Agile Distribution, LLC (205) 242-6908 (334) 220-2621

AngelTrax (334) 692-4600 www.angeltrax.com

Birmingham Frame & Alignment, LLC (205) 322-4844 birminghamframeandalignment.com

Max Coating, Inc. (205) 849-2739 www.maxcoating.com

Starnes Davis Florie LLP (205) 868-6000 www.starneslaw.com

Allstate Beverage (251) 476-9600 Ext. 1231

Repairs: Big Moe Spring & Alignment of B’ham, Inc. (205) 780-0290 www.bigmoespring.com

Trucking Partners, LLC Sales Agency & Factoring (256) 737-8788 www.truckingpartners.com Real Estate: Mary Lou’s Team RE/MAX, Inc. (205) 566-5911 www.marylousteam.com

TIRE DEALERS & MANUFACTURERS Best One Tire & Service (615) 207-9079 www.bestonetire.com Bridgestone Commercial Solutions (334) 791-0045 www.trucktires.com Butler Industrial Tire Center, Inc. (334) 376-0178 Columbus Tire Co., Inc. (706) 321-8133 www.columbustireco.com GCR Tire Centers (407) 466-5907 www.gcrtires.com Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. (708) 557-3406 www.goodyeartrucktires.com McGriff Tire Co. (256) 739-0710 www.mcgrifftire.com McGriff Treading Co., Inc. (256) 734-4298 www.mcgriffindustries.com Michelin North America (256) 483-2291 www.michelintruck.com Wilks Tire & Battery Service, Inc. (256) 878-0211 www.wilkstire.com Yokohama Tire Corp.

(317) 385-2611 www.yokohamatire.com

TRAILER DEALERS/ MANUFACTURERS C & C Trailers, Inc. (334) 897-2202 Dorsey Trailer Company (334) 897-2525 www.dorseytrailer.net Empire Truck Sales, LLC (601) 939-1000 www.empiretruck.com

Navistar (813) 382-3113 www.internationaldelivers.com Neely Coble Co. (256) 350-1630 www.neelycoble.com Nextran Truck Corporation (205) 841-4450 www.nextrancorp.com

Equipment Logistics, Inc. (256) 739-9280

Performance Peterbilt of West Florida (850) 352-9901 www.performancepeterbilt.com

Fleetco, Inc. (615) 256-0600 www.fleetco.net

Rush Truck Center-Mobile (251) 459-7300 www.rushofmobile.com

Fontaine Fifth Wheel NA (205) 421-4300 www.fifthwheel.com

Southland International Trucks, Inc. (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com

Great Dane Trailers (205) 324-3491 www.greatdanetrailers.com

Taylor & Martin, Inc. (662) 262-4613 www.taylorandmartin.com

Gulf City Body & Trailer Works, Inc. (251) 438-5521 www.gulfcity.com

Thompson/Caterpillar (205) 849-4365 www.thompsontractor.com

Gulf Coast Truck & Equipment Co. (251) 476-2744 www.gulfcoasttruck.com

Truckworx Kenworth - Birmingham (205) 326-6170 www.TRUCKWORX.com

R C Trailer Sales & Service Co., Inc. (205) 680-0924 www.rctrailersales.net

Truckworx Kenworth – Dothan (334) 712-4900 www.TRUCKWORX.com

Southland International Trucks, Inc. (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com

Truckworx Kenworth – Montgomery (334) 263-3101 www.TRUCKWORX.com

Star Leasing Co. (205) 763-1280 www.starleasing.com

Truckworx Kenworth – Mobile (251) 957-4000 www.TRUCKWORX.com

Transport Trailer Center (334) 299-3573 www.transporttc.com

Truckworx Kenworth – Huntsville (256) 308-0162 www.TRUCKWORX.com

Utility Trailer Sales of Alabama LLC (334) 794-7345 www.utilityalabama.com

Truckworx Kenworth – Thomasville (334) 636-4380 www.TRUCKWORX.com

TRUCK DEALERS, MANUFACTURERS Volvo Trucks North America Action Truck Center (336) 210-3075 (334) 794-8505 www.volvotrucks.volvo.com www.actiontruckcenter.com Ward International Trucks, LLC Birmingham Freightliner (251) 433-5616 (205) 322-6695 www.wardintltrucks.com www.birminghamfreightliner.com TRUCK & EQUIPMENT AUCTIONEERS Taylor & Martin, Inc. Capital Volvo Truck & Trailer (662) 262-4613 (334) 262-8856 www.taylorandmartin.com www.capitalvolvo.com Coffman International Trucks (334) 794-4111 www.coffmaninternationaltrucks.com

TRUCKSTOPS Love’s Travel Stops, Inc. (405) 202-4451 www.loves.com

Daimler Trucks NA LLC (803) 207-4099 www.freightlinertrucks.com

Oasis Travel Center, LLC (251) 960-1148

Empire Truck Sales, LLC (601) 939-1000 www.empiretruck.com

Pilot Flying J Centers (865) 207-3219 www.pilotflyingj.com

Fitzgerald Peterbilt (205) 379-8300 www.fitzgeraldpeterbilt.com

TravelCenters of America/Petro Shopping Centers (678) 591-4675 www.Ta-Petro.com

Four Star Freightliner (334) 263-1085 (Montgomery) www.fourstarfreightliner.com Long Lewis Western Star (205) 428-6241 www.longlewistrucks.com Mack Trucks, Inc. (678) 201-4770 www.macktrucks.com

VEHICLE LEASING Southland International Trucks, Inc. (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com Ward International Trucks, LLC (251) 433-5616 www.wardintltrucks.com

ATA

NEW MEMBERS & EVENTS

Honest Movers and Junk Haulers LLC 237 Oxmoor Circle, Suite 109 Birmingham, AL 35209 256-665-7830 Connor Coyne

New Members (as of 3-1-2017) A Wise Move Inc. 4500 5th Ave South, Bldg D Birmingham, AL 35222 (205) 276-4416 David Chapman

CS Transport, Inc 164 Tallapoosa Street Wadley, AL 36276 256-618-1848 Ben Willis

ADS Transport, Inc. 2809 Eva Road Falkville, AL 35622 256-565-4236 Allen Livingston

David Davis Farms, Inc. P.O. Box 2795 Daphne, AL 36526 251-626-6366 David Davis

Agile Distribution, LLC 1723 Vaughn Lane Montgomery, AL 36106 334-220-2621 Robert Sasser Sr.

Dozier Insurance Agency, LLC 1514 Mulberry St Montgomery, AL 36106 334-420-3798 Woody Dozier

Charity Steel Corp 227 Limestone Pkwy Calera, AL 35040 205-668-2200 Reece Halyard

Gibson Powell Express, Inc P. O. Box 1368 Albertville, AL 35950 256-891-1857 Ms. Cindy Beck

J E Wheeler, Inc. 9112 Thoroughbred Run Fairhope, AL 36532 251-330-8984 Joseph Wheeler

McKinney and Sons Transfer, LLC 7001 Co Rd 89 Lexington, AL 35648 256-229-5697 David McKinney

M & M Transportation, LLC P.O. Box 67 Ashville, AL 35953 205-594-7706 Scott Mashburn

Premium Services, Inc 138 Sweetwater Drive Headland, AL 36345 334-333-7301 Earl O’Neal

MAF Properties, LLC 940 Pine Ave. Eufaula, AL 36027 334-695-2782 Mark A Finlayson

PTP Transport, LLC P. O. Box 1810 Auburn, AL 36831 334-539-5965 Mark Lovelace

Contact Ford Boswell at fboswell@alabamatrucking.org or 877-277-TRUK (8785) For More Information

36

Royal Lagoon Seafood, Inc. P. O. Box 190693 Mobile, AL 36691 251-653-1975 Val Hammond Tensaw Investment Group LLC dba Zippy Shell of Greater Mobile 126 McIntosh Bluff Rd Fairhope, AL 36532 251-270-0934 John Pearson Trailer Sales of Tennessee 414 Woodycrest Nashville, TN 37210 615-259-3301 Keith Rhodes

Reid State Technical College P.O. Box 588 Evergreen, AL 36401 251-578-1313 Ms. Coretta Boykin

A

Alabama Trucker (AT), the official publication of the Alabama Trucking Association (ATA), is an award-winning trade publication highlighting the Association's activities while documenting the business environment of the day.

AT is published quarterly and distributed to more than 2,500 trucking executives, regulatory officials, and political figures.

Want to reach decision makers at more than 1,500 Alabama-based trucking firms? Consider this: Advertising in AT reaches the most concentrated readership of trucking professionals in the state. Our rates are affordable, but on top of that, your helping ATA send positive messages about one of the state's largest employers.

Robinson Group LLC 334-356-3665 Otanaio Robinson

Max Coating, Inc 3653 Industrial Parkway Birmingham, AL 35217 205-849-2739 Chuck Gault

D V E R T I S I N G

I

N D E X

ADVERTISER

PG. NO.

PH. NO.

ATA WCSIF

BC

(334) 834-7911

www.atacompfund.org

The Baxter Agency

28

(800) 873-8494

www.baxteragency.com

Borg Warner

3

(800) 927-7811

www.Thermal.BorgWarner.com

R.E. Garrison

26

(800) 643-3472

www.regarrison.com

Great West Casualty

11

(800) 228-8053

www.gwccnet.com

International Trucks

IFC

(800) 844-4102

www.navistar.com

J.J. Keller

33

(888) 473-4638 ext. 7892

Johnson Locklin

29

(251) 947-3015

www.johnson-locklin.com

Nextran Truck Center

17

(800) 292-8685

www.nextrancorp.com

Palomar Insurance

20

(800) 489-0105

www.palomarins.com

Regions Insurance

25

(800) 807-1412

www.regionsinsurance.com

Southland Trailer Div.

23

(888) 844-1821

www.southlandtrucks.com

IBC

(205) 849-4288

www.thompsontractor.com

Truckworx Kenworth

7

(800) 444-6170

www.truckworx.com

Turner & Hamrick

21

(888) 385-0186

www.turnerhamrick.com

18-19

(205) 755-2610

www.thomasoil.com

Thompson Cat

WH Thomas Oil Co.

WEB ADDRESS

www.jjkellermobile.com

A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2017