New Mexico Trucking Magazine - Spring 2017 by Ryan Davis

New Mexico

Spring 2017

Peloton

The Future of Savings

NMTA

Annual Event is Coming

TAT

Introduces Window Decals

New Mexico New Mexico Trucking is the official publication of the New Mexico Trucking Association and published four times per year by RJ Five LLC. For subscription information, please contact RJ Five at (505) 407-2151 Contributing Writers

Publisher Ryan L. Davis RJ Five LLC rdavis@rjfive.com

Johnny Johnson Pelotron – Geoff Johnson Brian M. Creadur, DPS Franklin Garcia – Bureau Chief, NMDOT Lori Harris Stan Grant

Graphic Design RJ Five LLC.

Executive Editor Johnny R. Johnson New Mexico Trucking Association jrjohnson@nmtrucking.org Account Manager Jacob Olsen jolsen@nmtrucking.org

New Mexico Executive Director – Johnny R. Johnson jrjohnson@nmtrucking.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Secretary / Treasurer

President Stan Grant Holly Frontier, LLC Artesia, NM Stan.Grant@hollycorp.com

Raul Garcia Mesilla Valley Transportation Las Cruces, NM Raul@M-V-T.com

1st Vice President Sam Bagby Groendyke Transport Albuquerque, NM SBagby@groendyke.com

Chairman & Ex-Officio Wayne Sonchar B.T.U. Block & Concrete, Inc. Las Vegas, NM Wayne@btudoitcenter.com

2nd Vice President Larry Knippel Danlar Collision and Towing Albuquerque, NM Larry@danlar.com

ATA State Vice President Bruce MacRae United Parcel Service Laguna Hills, CA BMacrae@ups.com

Conference Chairs Allied Industry *Kevin Walker Rush Truck Centers, Inc. Albuquerque, NM Truckload Carriers Danny Crawford Wild West Express Las Cruces, NM LTL Carriers Todd Kellerstrass XPO Logistics Albuquerque, NM CDL Testing & Training TBA San Juan College Farmington, NM

Oilfield Haulers--South Robert Blevins Holly Frontier Transportation Artesia, NM Beverage Distributors Scott Long Premier Distributing Albuquerque, NM Heavy Haul & House Movers Henry Pacheco Pacheco Trucking Albuquerque, NM

Private Carriers Joshua Robertson US Food Service Albuquerque, NM Wrecker & Recovery Anthony VanderVossen Holmes Wrecker Service Espanola, NM Safety Management Council Lori Harris Western Assurance Albuquerque, NM Petroleum Jonas Armenta Western Refining Wholesale Albuquerque, NM

An Affiliate of the American Trucking Association NMTA is the voice of the commercial truck and bus operators in New Mexico. The NMTA represents member carriers in legislative and regulatory matter before local, state and federal government. The association works to ensure laws and regulations affecting the trucking industry are fair and balanced. The NMTA also educate members regarding laws and regulations and promotes safe operations and good practices to ensure members remain a healthy and viable par of New Mexico economy.

Find us Online! www.nmtrucking.org 1 / NEW MEXICO TRUCKING

We also sell Rent Trailers, Goosenecks and Flatbeds! Call for more Details!

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In This Issue

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Directors Desk

Presidents Podium

10-13

NMTA Annual Event

14-15

Peloton

Senate Bill 76

Great Western Leasing

ProDrivers

Behind the Lights

Enchanted Highways (DOT)

SMC Safety

NMTA Calendar

Advertising Index

SPRING 2017 / 5

Directors Desk

s a rookie by many standards, this being only my 4th session as representative of the trucking industry, the 2017 New Mexico legislative session closed with all of us in attendance having of the same thought; The session was not as productive as we felt it should have been Many in the roundhouse disagreed with how productive the session really was and how much was truly accomplished. If the elected official’s really do listen, which by the way I sincerely hope they do, we hope they have heard the discourse that is running through the state, as well as the nation on how failed the government seems to be.

effect not only New Mexico as a state but each small and large business, as well as each taxpayer. I can also assure you this is not in a positive way. We as a state are carrying financial burdens that are decades old and the debt service is huge and daunting to say the least. This must be dealt with regardless of political party fingerprints on each and every issue. So what is the solution? In my humble opinion raising taxes on an already seriously stressed economy is not the answer. For example; if you impose a tax anywhere inside the trucking industry it will not only ultimately be passed along to the end consumer, but it will also send more small companies out of the industry.

The trucking industry fully understands its obligation to the state as far as us paying our fair share to the road fund. However, what is the clear Speaking on behalf of the recent New understanding terminology of “fair Mexico session in the Round House in share?” It is defined and shared by all Santa Fe, the monetary decisions that are that utilize the highways and state roads. made each year in that building deeply The importance of the road fund is near

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and dear to this industry and each and every time the funds are re-directed it causes a certain amount of heartburn within the transportation community. This is due to the reality that it is where we do our business, “on the highway” so whenever an increase in tax is discussed we firmly believe it should be dedicated solely to the road fund. We have documented to the House transportation committee that the trucking Industry in New Mexico currently pays more in taxes than our three neighboring states and that’s not including excise, GRT and many other taxes. That did prompt the committee to include the industry in to the interim committee meetings in an attempt to find common ground on tax hikes and its effects on the industry. We are extremely grateful for the invite to the table and hope to be able to help future issues regarding the industry. Johnny Johnson New Mexico Trucking Association Managing Director

SPRING 2017 / 7

Presidents Podium

pring is upon us. The nice weather is a welcoming sight. Every year as the sun warms the New Mexico soil leaving the winter temperatures behind, the state seems to come alive with our desert blooms and enjoyable temperatures. No matter where you live in the state, there is always a new beginning so to speak as spring appears. However, I want to take this time to remind everyone of the dangers that come with our occupation. Even though the warmer weather

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means more time to enjoy getting out and enjoying the state, the dangers of distracted driving are behind every corner. New Mexico offers a beautiful place for people to visit, bringing in tourism from every corner of the world. In addition, more people are out shopping, getting their families from here to there and visiting friends and family. With more people on the road, there are plenty of distractions that come along with it. From our phones and distractions inside the cars to the beautiful landscape and the diversions outside the windows, the world is full of obstacles that can take our attention away from our driving. This is definitely a time of year for our drivers of commercial vehicles to be aware and take the course of defensive driving. Although it is a great time to be

a driver in New Mexico and to take in the great landscape of our state, and to enjoy the great weather, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let your guard down. Be a non-distracted driver and be sure to make it home safe to your families. In addition, I want to invite everyone to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s NM Trucking Annual Event! It will once again take place the first week of May. We hope more and more of our great trucking partners come to the event. We will once again showcase the annual Truck Driving Championships, host a great golf tournament and bring back for the second year the Trap Shooting event. There is always something for everyone to enjoy during the event. I hope to see you there. Stan Grant

SPRING 2017 / 9

NMTA Annual Event out more by logging into the New Mexico Trucking Association website. There will be guest speakers throughout the day including Albuquerque’s Mayoral candidate, Dan Lewis, as well as the possibility of New Mexico’s Lt. Governor, John Sanchez who may make an ell into the New Year, and with appearance and say a few words. Friday, longer days and warmer weather May 5th will also host the second annual creeping in, it means it is about time for New Mexico Trucking Association Trap Shoot. The day’s shooting event will be the New Mexico Trucking Association hosted at the Albuquerque Trap Club, Annual Event! Spring has sprung and just a skip north of the Isleta Casino and that means the first week of May will bring all the events that the NM trucking Resort. The shoot will begin at 2 p.m. and will hold prizes for the individual winners industry have come to love! From the golf course to the driving course, with a in several categories. bit of trap shooting, Supertech, Annual meetings, and a whole lot of fun mixed in, Saturday, May 6th will kick off the New Mexico Trucking Association is the weekend’s big event, the annual your industry’s biggest event of the year! New Mexico Safety Management Council Truck Driving and Step Van Championships! The 2017 TDC will This years event will once again kick off with the annual New Mexico Trucking present itself in the parking lot of the Association Golf Tournament. Always a Isleta Casino and Resort and include great time, the event sets the tone for the the following classes: Step Van, Straight days to follow. Hosted at the Isleta Eagle Axle, Three-Axle, Four-Axle Five-Axle, Tank Truck, Flatbed, Twin-Trailer and Golf Course just south of Albuquerque on Thursday, May 4th, the golf event will Sleeper Berth. Drivers are invited to test showcase a lot of goodies and chances to their skills for a chance to become one of win. Not only will the low scoring teams this year’s champions. Awards for this take home their share of the days game, year include, Grand Champion, Rookie but everyone will have a shot at the four of the Year and Team awards. There will be trophies for 1st through 3rd in each of great hole in one prizes that include, the driving classes. Winners will also be a brand new Semi sponsored by Rush Truck Centers, a 3-seater SUV sponsored invited to represent New Mexico at the ATA (American Trucking Association) by Wallwork Financial, a New F-150 National Truck Driving Championships sponsored by Rich Ford and a 6-seater SUV sponsored by Summit Truck Group. that will be held in Orlando, Florida later this year. There will also be the longest drive and closest to the pin contests, as well as Saturday will also host the third the ever famous Par-3 Poker that keeps annual SuperTech. This is a great event everyone testing their skills, or luck on the course. The tournament will begin at that tests the skills of those who keep our industry’s trucks on the road. This 1 pm and check in will start at noon. will be held alongside the TDC at Isleta Casino and Resort parking lot and will Friday will host the annual New begin at 2 p.m. There will be nine stations Mexico Trucking Association meetings to test this year technicians and like the held at Isleta Casino and Resort. Find

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TDC winners, the SuperTech champion will also be invited to head to Orlando, Florida to take part in the national competition. New to this year’s event will be the Light Duty Towing Course hosted during the day. This will be an informational course that the New Mexico Trucking Association hopes to grow in the future. The drivers of this event will showcase their towing skills and how they support the trucking industry and help get everyone home safely. Saturday evening will close out the three-day long event with the New Mexico Trucking Association annual banquet. This is where all of the competitors acknowledged of their hard work and the TDC championships will be rewarded. Again this year, New Mexico Trucking Association Director, Johnny Johnson will be co-hosting the event with New Mexico’s own, and everyone’s favorite meteorologist, Eric Green. The night will be entertaining to say the least. Isleta Casino and Resort ball room will be filled with the sights and sounds of the trucking industry’s finest as they prepare for a great evening of food and fun. The tension will be high as the evening plays out and champions are announced. This event is right around the corner and deadlines for entries in all of the events are coming fast. Be sure to contact the New Mexico Trucking Association or log into their website to find out more details. Also be sure to book your room at the Isleta Casino and Resort. They usually fill up fast! Be part of the excitement this year. Come out and enjoy the largest Trucking industry event in the state – The New Mexico Trucking Association Annual Event and the New Mexico Safety Management Council Truck Driving and Step Van Championships!

Dan Lewis Candidate For Mayor

Eric Green Meterologist

John Sanchez Lt. Governor

Dan Lewis is a proven job creator and entrepreneur. He is currently the Executive Vice President of Desert Fuels. Under his leadership, Desert Fuels was recognized as one of Albuquerque’s fastest growing companies in 2014, and one of New Mexico’s largest revenue companies in 2015. While serving as President of Desert Fuels in 2015 Dan was recognized by Business First as one of Albuquerque’s TOP CEOs. In the face of a tough economic climate, Dan’s executive experience and economic knowhow is already creating good-paying jobs for Albuquerque families.

“It may not rain much here in New Mexico, but we sure do have active weather!” Emmy-award winning certified broadcast meteorologist Eric Green says that’s his usual reply when people tell him how easy it must be being a meteorologist in a state where the sun is shining most of the time. A member of the KOAT meteorologist staff since January 2010, Eric says he loves our state’s diverse weather, especially during the winter.

John Sanchez has served as Lieutenant Governor since January 2011, and was reelected on November 4, 2014, by the citizens of the State of New Mexico. He was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and can trace his public service roots to his great, great grandfather, who was a territorial legislator from San Miguel County in 1860.

Eric received the official seal of approval from the American Meteorological Society (AMS) in 2004 and the AMS Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) designation in 2008, making the First Alert Weather team the only team of broadcast meteorologists in New Mexico to have all main meteorologists in possession of the prestigious designation.

Prior to being elected Lieutenant Governor, Sanchez was elected to the office of Councilman for the Village of Los Ranchos and also served in the New Mexico House of Representatives. In 2005, he was recognized as one of the Top 40 Most Influential Hispanics in the Country.

Previously, Eric served as weekend meteorologist at Hearst Television sister station WLWT-TV in Cincinnati. In the Ohio Valley, Eric tracked everything from major winter storms with heavy snow and ice to severe summer storms and even tornadoes. Before his time in Ohio, he served as meteorologist at WOWK-TV in Huntington, West Virginia, and KBJR-TV in Duluth, Minnesota.

Together with his wife, Debra, Sanchez built one of New Mexico’s most respected and successful small businesses in Albuquerque. The firm has operated continuously for over 30 years and was twice honored as Small Business of the Year.

Dan was elected to the Albuquerque City Council in 2009 and re-elected in 2013, representing the largest council district in our city. Councilor Lewis has fought for critical roadway improvements, championed common-sense solutions to help small businesses, and worked to implement reforms at every level of city government. While serving twice as President of the Council and twice as Chairman of the Budget Committee, Dan worked with City leaders to balance budgets every year, rooted out fraud and waste, and fought for the wise and efficient use of tax dollars. Dan and his wife Tracy have been married for 25 years. Tracy is a third-grade public school teacher. Their children, Madison and Jensen both attend the University of New Mexico. Dan was also the Founding Pastor of Soul Rio Community Church in Albuquerque where he served for over 15 years. He volunteers at community organizations such as LifeQuest, a juvenile justice mentoring program, where he serves as a member of the Board of Ambassadors. Dan is also a member of the National Kidney Foundation, and is a living kidney donor.

Eric earned his bachelor’s degree in atmospheric sciences at St. Cloud State University in St. Cloud, Minnesota. While a student, Eric researched tornados in the Northern Plains, and won an undergraduate award for his insight. Eric is married with a son and daughter, and he says he and his wife stay supremely busy chasing their kids around on the weekend, and when the kids rest, their cat and dog provide the laughter. When not forecasting the weather, Eric can be found coaching wrestling at La Cueva high school in Albuquerque where he’s been an assistant coach since 2011 and he’s also really plugged into the local car scene frequently hitting car shows and also the local racetracks, where he’s been known to race at times.

As Lieutenant Governor, Sanchez presides over the New Mexico State Senate, serves as the State’s Ombudsman, and sits on several boards and commissions. He is also an active member of the National Lieutenant Governors Association (NLGA) and currently serves as the association’s West Regional Chairman. Lieutenant Governor Sanchez is a strong advocate for job creation, economic development, and private sector growth in New Mexico, and recently accepted an appointment to the Innovate ABQ Board of Directors. He and his wife are the proud parents of two grown daughters, and reside in Albuquerque.

SPRING 2017 / 11

NMTA Annual Event Highlights from 2016

Who will b r of t e he Ye ar fo r 201

Drive

Come o ut and enjoy t he fun!

2016 Driver of the Year James Kontny (Groendyke)

r u o y t e G ! n i s e i r t en

12 / NEW MEXICO TRUCKING

Be par excitem t of the ent this year!

SPRING 2017 / 13

New Mexico Industry Is T

rucking fleets operating on major freight lanes in New Mexico are well-suited to recognize the benefits of driver-assistive truck platooning. The length, terrain and typically low traffic density of I-25, I-10, I-40 and other key corridors in the state are right for fleets to maximize platooning mileage and fuel savings. Peloton Technology is a leading developer of connected and automated vehicle systems for the U.S. trucking industry. In 2017, we are commercially deploying our flagship truck platooning system for twotruck platoons. The Peloton System coordinates speed and headway between pairs of tractor-trailers using wireless vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications, enabling the trucks to travel safely at aerodynamic following distances of 30-80 feet. In February at a meeting of the American Trucking Association’s Technology & Maintenance Council, ATA President Chris Spear said that “it is really going to be about ‘driver-assist’ and not ‘driverless’ when we discuss [truck automation] technology.” The Peloton System is a clear example of that truth about truck automation technology today. The driver of each truck in a platoon maintains continuous steering control and the ability to disengage a platoon if he or she sees fit. For the driver of the following truck, the Peloton System works a lot like adaptive cruise control, with a significant added feature of wireless Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC) between trucks. Using DSRC, sensors and safety-validated software, trucks rapidly exchange data about braking, following distance and other parameters important to platooning. When the lead truck changes speed, the follow truck adjusts its speed in coordination with the lead truck

1 / NEW MEXICO TRUCKING 14 / NEW MEXICO TRUCKING

automatically within approximately 0.03 seconds. In the event of hard braking by the lead truck, the System’s automated, low-latency V2V response time corresponds to just a few feet of brake lag by the follow truck at highway speeds. Connected braking helps the follow truck to brake faster than it could using a radar-based automated emergency braking (AEB) system alone. WiFi and cellular connections link Peloton-equipped trucks with a cloudbased Network Operations Center (NOC) that provides continuous remote management of platoons. Peloton’s NOC enforces geofenced boundaries and other rules to limit truck platoons to specified roadways in safe driving conditions, accounting for weather, road, vehicle and driver factors. The NOC also determines the order and following distance of the Trucks based on real-time safety assessments and rules of the road which can vary by state. The Peloton System is designed to enhance truck safety. We have worked with truck OEMs and Tier 1 brake suppliers to design and validate the System’s integration with commercial forward collision avoidance and mitigation (FCAM) products including Bendix Wingman® Fusion™ and WABCO OnGuard ACTIVE™, which are required equipment on every truck using the Peloton System. Since the economics of FCAM from the fleet perspective are sometimes hard to assess, the added value of using FCAM as a foundation to enable fuel-efficient platooning could make the difference for fleets in deciding to adopt best-in-class technology for crash prevention. In 2013, independent trials of the Peloton System by the North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE) using the J1321 Type II fuel economy testing protocol showed fuel savings of 4.5% for the lead truck and

Perfect for Platooning

10% for the following truck -- a twotruck average fuel savings of 7.25% at a 36-ft headway. Real-world fuel savings will vary based partly on the share of mileage that a truck spends in platoons. While carriers with concentrated routes may be able to find reliable platooning partners within their own fleets, interfleet platooning is possible as well. A new partnership between Peloton and Omnitracs has created a large potential pool of inter-fleet platooning partners and the ability to co-optimize routing, scheduling and other fleet management decisions for platooning. Today, the regulatory landscape affects where fleets can platoon. Twenty-two states in the U.S. -including New Mexico -- have a numerical minimum following distance that applies to tractor-tractors, ranging anywhere from 100 ft to 500 ft depending on the state. Written before the onset of automated emergency braking, V2V and other vehicle technologies, that type of rule is a lingering obstacle to truck platooning. In December 2016, Michigan, a 500ft state (by law if not in practice!), became the first state to enact a bill specifically authorizing truck platooning, by exempting platoons from the numerical distance standard. At the time that this is being written, another 10 or so states are considering similar legislation. Looking ahead to 2017 and 2018, Peloton and our initial fleet customers along with state officials are exploring near-term opportunities for interstate platooning including on I-10. As a new allied member of the New Mexico Trucking Association, we appreciate this opportunity to communicate with members. We look forward to continued work with the NMTA to inform interested New Mexico motor carriers about platooning.

SPRING 2017 / 2 SPRING 2017 / 15

SENATE BILL 76

<<<<INTRO>>>> At theAttime print, Bill Bill 76 76 hashas been MexicoSenate Senate and House is waiting to be the of time of print, beenpassed passedby byboth both the the New New Mexico and House and and is waiting to signed by Governor Suzanna Martinez. The New Mexico Trucking Association has been told by those close be signed by Governor Suzanna Martinez. The New Mexico Trucking Association has been told by those to the Governor that it will be signed. close to the Governor that it will be signed. SENATE BILL 76 53RD LEGISLATURE - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - FIRST SESSION, 2017 Introduced By James P. White and Roberto "Bobby" J. Gonzales AN ACT RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES; REQUIRING THAT DRIVERS MOVE OVER OR SLOW DOWN FOR ALL STATIONARY VEHICLES DISPLAYING FLASHING EMERGENCY OR HAZARD LIGHTS. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO: SECTION 1. Section 66-7-332 NMSA 1978 (being Laws 1978, Chapter 35, Section 436, as amended) is amended to read: "66-7-332. OPERATION OF VEHICLES ON APPROACH OF MOVING AUTHORIZED EMERGENCY VEHICLES-OPERATION OF VEHICLES ON APPROACH OF STATIONARY VEHICLES. A - Upon the immediate approach of an authorized emergency vehicle displaying flashing emergency lights or when the driver is giving audible signal by siren, [exhaust whistle or bell] the driver of every other vehicle shall yield the right of way and shall immediately drive to a position parallel to, and as close as possible to, the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway clear of any intersection and shall stop and remain in that position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer. B - Upon approaching a stationary [authorized emergency] vehicle, including a recovery or repair vehicle, displaying flashing emergency or hazard lights, unless otherwise directed, the driver of a vehicle shall: (1) if reasonably safe to do so, drive in a lane not adjacent to [where] the [authorized emergency] stationary vehicle [is stopped], decrease the speed of the vehicle to a speed that is reasonable and prudent under the circumstances and proceed with caution; or (2) if it is not reasonably safe to drive in a lane not adjacent to [where] the [authorized emergency] stationary vehicle [is stopped], decrease the speed of the vehicle to a speed that is reasonable and prudent under the circumstances, proceed with caution and be prepared to stop. C - This section shall not operate to relieve the driver of an authorized emergency vehicle or the driver of any other vehicle from the duty to drive and park with due regard for the safety of all persons using the highway."

In Remembrance of tow truck driver, Robert “Bobby” Unruh of Pinky’s / Allrite Towing in Tucumcari, New Mexico who recently lost his life while working alongside I-40. 16 / NEW MEXICO TRUCKING

SPRING 2017 / 17

GREAT WESTERN LEASING ACQUIRES QUALITY TRAILER SALES

reat Western Leasing and Sales, LLC, recently acquired Quality Trailer Sales, expanding its network into the southwest U.S. As part of this acquisition, Great Western Leasing has now added Heil Trailer to its product line. Great Western Leasing has been a leading distributor of high-quality trailers since 1997. With the acquisition of Quality Trailer Sales, the company adds Albuquerque, New Mexico, to its previous 4 locations in California, Texas, Utah, and Oregon. “We are excited to expand our network and provide trailer solutions, parts and service to a greater number of customers,” stated Sean Norton, CEO of Great Western Leasing. “Additionally, we can now offer the complete line of Heil Trailer products, from stainless to dry bulk trailers and everything in between.” “We’re excited to welcome Great Western Leasing to the Heil Trailer family,” said Ryan Rockafellow, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Heil

Trailer. “We look forward to helping them grow throughout the Southwest region.” About Great Western Leasing and Sales, LLC Great Western Leasing and Sales, LLC, based in Irvine, CA, is a leading full-service, integrated solutions provider to the flatbed and specialized trailer industry. The Company operates a network of strategically located facilities in the Western United States which offer customers a broad range of sales, financing, leasing and rental options for new and used trailers, as well as after-market trailer repair and maintenance. The Company distributes trailers for a broad range of manufacturers including Fontaine Trailer Company, Transcraft Corporation, Wilson Trailer Company, East Manufacturing Corporation, Manac Trailers USA, Heil Trailer, XL Specialized Trailers, Doonan Specialized Trailers and Side Dump Industries. Visit www.greatwesternleasing.com. About Heil Trailer International,Co. Established in 1901, Heil Trailer International, Co. is the leading brand

of durable tank trailers and is known for the enduring performance of its products, industry-leading support and solutionsdriven customer service. A manufacturer of liquid, dry bulk, oilfield, construction, platform, specialized, towing and defense trailers, Heil designs its products to meet the most stringent region- and load-specific requirements in 85 countries around the globe. Heil Trailer International, Co. is owned by American Industrial Partners, an operationally oriented middle-market private equity firm that makes control investments in North American-based industrial businesses serving domestic and global markets. Heil Trailer International, Co., Kalyn Siebert and SERVA are part of EnTrans International, LLC, a leading manufacturer of tank trailers, oilfield capital equipment and related components used in the oil & gas industry. Heil Trailer International, Co. is headquartered in Cleveland, Tennessee. For more information about Heil Trailer, visit www.heiltrailer.com.

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1/18/16 9:43 AM 3/23/2017 4:57:27 PM

SPRING 2017 / 19

We now offer free defensive driver training for young drivers. Pro Drivers is commited to the safety of our drivers, the monitoring public, and teen drivers that are just venturing onto our nation’s highways. This commitment has been demonstrating by our ongoing dedication to training drivers by partnering with a world class training organization that provides short, interactive modules that sharpen the skills of professional drivers.

ProDrivers partners with Ryder to bring a brand new 18-wheeler to schools all over the nation, allowing high school students this unique opportunity to observe the blind spots around a big rig. We are sure that this opportunity is changing driving habits of young drivers nationwide.

In an effort to further educate students and better support the Drivers that work for us, ProDrivers has partnered with Further evidence of this commitment is ProDriver’ dedication to the Teens & Truck ProTREAD to bring training to our driver’s program. This program has conducted live families! Effective immediately, the driving presentations in 21 high schools in 9 states age students in the ProDrivers family may during the past 6 years. These presentations access a free training module on Defensive Driving. The short training module will provide opportunities for young drivers focus on some of the fundamental aspects of to sit in the seat of a big truck to see what driving. a driver can see on the road, but more importantly, what a professional driver Defensive Driving training will provide cannot see in his or her blind spot.

Drivers, Please share this opportunity with your driving age students and know that ProDrivers is dedicated to not only the drivers that make us who we are, but your families as well. Stay Safe!

ProDrivers – Transportation Workforce Specialists (505-341-3500) (www.ProDrivers.com)

We got beyond standard screening to ensure you receive the best driver fit - every time.

Truly Professional

Safest Drivers in the Business

ProDrivers hove an occident rote of .26, versus .725 per million miles for the industry. Plus our industry leading safety training program keeps drivers current CSA and Pre & Post trip inspections to further help eliminate fines and promote a safe workplace.

Only the best can be called a "ProDriver."

With our exclusive selection process, we hire only 11 of every 1 00 drivers who apply. This, combined with a focus on maximizing the fit between you and a ProDriver, does more than assure you of getting the most qualified, reliable drivers. It also increases your speed to productivity.

DOT Recordable Accidents per million miles

Source: FMCSA

Unparalleled Service Area

All size fleets in 33 states, coast-to-coast to fit your service needs

-0.31 ProDrivers 0.725 Audited Carriers

ProDrivers serves all size fleets in 33 states, coast-tocoast. With a service network of highly trained driver experts readily available 24/7, we’re able to create a driver resource solution customized to your needs. When and whenever you need it . States Serviced www.ProDrivers.com For more information contact: A Team Member 505-341-3500 20 / NEW MEXICO TRUCKING

MAKE THE CALL. SAVE LIVES.

techniques to improve situational awareness that could save a young driver’s life. Young drivers may print their certificate of completion once finished and some insurance companies or student education programs may even give credit for completing this training.

ProDrivers® knows the art and science of matching the right Driver to the right iob.

The incredibly low ProDrivers accident rate speaks for itself.

TRUCKERS AGAINST TRAFFICKING Get Your TAT Sticker! 1-888-373-7888 “Having a TAT decal on my tractor window is a priority for me, and this is why: Last year, I was on a ten hur break and had parked my truck at the Pilot in Mahwah, NJ. I was coming out of the store, when I noticed a young lady near my truck, I hung back to see what she was doing. She looked around nervously, then quickly copied down the number on my door sticker. I started to approach her, but she spooked and took off. I’ll never know whether she called or not, but maybe it gave her the strength she needed to get help.” Ken Whitesell, driver NFI Transportation

Finding qualified drivers is only port of the job. Making sure they’ re the right fit is what we do best and our clients value most. Let’s talk. SPRING 2017 / 21

22 / NEW MEXICO TRUCKING

SPRING 2017 / 23

Behind The Lights By Bryan M. Credeur, DPS New Mexico State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement

hen I was first asked to write an article for this magazine from my perspective I was at a loss to find a particular topic or message to write about. I have never written an article before for any publication and I was a little apprehensive at first about the idea. Instinctively, I reached out to our field personnel for ideas that were important to them. My reason for doing that was quite frankly because I have not been “in the field” for several years now. I wanted to make sure that whatever I decided to write about had some meaning and significance. I hope this effort achieved this. I started my law enforcement career in 1992 and began my commercial vehicle enforcement career in 1999. In was quite an eye opening experience to say the least. I remember taking the required classes in order to become certified in the inspection process of commercial vehicles and I was caught completely off-guard by how technically proficient an individual had to be to pass the class. I remember too how after one course of instruction and testing I had the biggest headache and had to drive back to Las Cruces from Santa Fe feeling as though I had failed the test. Fortunately, I passed. From a law enforcement standpoint, this was some of the hardest classroom trainings I had experienced up to that point in my law enforcement career and I had a new found respect for the job the men and women do every day in this specialized field of law enforcement. I also had a new respect for how difficult it was and continues to be for companies and drivers to constantly maintain a high degree of professionalism, service and dependability in an ever changing world of rules, regulations and laws governing their day to day operations. However, today more than ever, there are more companies and drivers “getting it right” than ever before. Recently, New Mexico has been 24 / NEW MEXICO TRUCKING

identified in some circles as a “bridge state”. This means New Mexico is a major conduit for commercial traffic and the transportation of goods and services between the East and West coasts. New Mexico has three interstates traversing the state which helps facilitate that commerce. Commercial traffic continues to increase in New Mexico and with that comes the additional challenges of enforcing the rules, regulations and laws on those drivers, vehicles and companies needing attention. The Officers and Transportation Inspectors tasked with the enforcement component of the big picture of transporting products and people do so with a clear understanding of the ramifications and implications of their actions on each inspection they conduct. It is for this reason and the fact that the public has entrusted us with ensuring the roadways are as safe as we can make them that we take our jobs seriously and we respect the responsibilities and obstacles that the trucking industry faces every day. It has been my experience over the years that a large majority of crashes involving commercial motor vehicles occur for one main reason. That reason is driver behavior. Whether it be on the part of the commercial driver or the driver of the car in the vicinity of the commercial vehicle, an overwhelming majority of all crashes is due to human error. There are four areas I would like to address regarding driver inattention and behavior. First, I cannot over-emphasize the importance of not texting while operating your vehicle. Crashes are on the rise because of this behavior. Studies have shown our brains miss things while taking in too much information requiring attention to what is being said (on the phone), what is being displayed (road signs) and/or what is taking place around us (traffic). Simply stated, most people do not perform well when their attention is divided. Secondly, the number of tired or fatigued drivers is another significant contributing factor. Drivers and companies alike should take every conceivable pre-caution to eliminate, as much as possible, the possibility of tired/fatigued operators. Next, crashes occurring in work/construction zones

is increasing. As traffic is forced to condense their proximity to one another there is less margin for error. Drivers should heed the construction signs well in advance of entering the zone. Lastly, DON”T TAILGATE. There is nothing more nerve-racking, frustrating, infuriating and unprofessional than a semi-driver who does this. It shows a blatant disregard for the lives of the people in the vehicle in front of him/her as well as for all lives on the roadway. Just because you may be in one of the largest vehicles on the roadway doesn’t mean you have the right to intimidate other drivers. Remember, you are supposed to be a professional driver. It’s your chosen profession whether it be for a short time or a lifetime. I am pretty sure none of what I have said thus far is new news to you, but because we in Law Enforcement continue to see the same things happening concerning crashes we feel it is important to continue to talk about them and the preventive measures that should be taken. All drivers, but especially and most importantly commercial vehicle drivers, should possess the ability to anticipate, to see around corners, so to speak, with regards to what is taking place or will take place based on their actions and behaviors behind the wheel and to take the necessary steps needed to assure themselves of an incident free trip. I am convinced that by focusing on these four areas every day and for every trip more lives can be saved, fewer injuries will occur and less property damage will be experienced. There simply can be no other acceptable course of action. The New Mexico State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Bureau will continue to work in stride with the facilitation of commerce all the while maintaining public safety for all motorists on our roadways. We look forward to our continued partnership with the New Mexico Trucking Association and the companies and drivers it represents in creating better, safer and more efficient means of moving goods and people across our state through the safe use of commercial motor vehicles. Please DRIVE FRIENDLY, STAY SAFE & STAY PROFESSIONAL.

Service & Parts Manager: Mike Myers Sales & Iceberg Rental Manager: Alex Juarez 505-235-7114 Operating Hours Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Office Phone: 505-833-0267 Office Fax: 505-833-0276 *AFTER HOURS CALL OUT SERVICE AVAILABLE 24/7 365 DAYS A YEAR

SPRING 2017 / 25

Enchanted Highways Franklin Garcia Bureau Chief, NMDOT

New Payment Process at New Mexico Ports Of Entry

tarting July 1, 2017, cash payments will no longer be accepted at New Mexico Ports of Entry as a form of payment for permits and fees. The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) and the Department of Public Safety (DPS) will continue to accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover credit cards and is working on adding additional credit card options. The Department will also continue to accept checks, T-Checks and EFS check payments. The Department will be phasing out the acceptance of checks at a later date. The NMDOT and DPS are directing all operators to purchase permits online through the New Mexico Operating Permit System https://mtdpermits.dps.state.nm.us/. An oversize or overweight vehicle, combination or load shall have a special permit issued before entry into the state. Operators may pay trip tax, caravan and special fuel fees at the ports of entry using a credit card as payment. In order to assist with the transition to eliminate the acceptance of cash, the NMDOT will purchase credit card terminals and place additional items in the Ports for those operators that need to purchase on-site. Since 2014, the Department of Transportation has been staffing personnel at the New Mexico Ports of Entry to process permit sales. This transition from DPS staff allows for the Transportation Inspectors and New Mexico State Police officers to focus on the enforcement and inspection requirements. As a result of partnerships between agencies, vehicle safety inspections have increased from 51,905 in 2014 to 61,188 in 2016. The NM DOT will also be staffing the Santa Teresa Port of entry in order to ensure that the required special fuel tax is collected by all operators.

For questions regarding the changes, please contact Franklin Garcia at (505) 827-3200.

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SPRING 2017 / 27

SMC

Bulletin

Trucker’s Health…

here’s “tons” of truck driver health advice floating around out there…In fact, I’m sure most truckers have had way to many “Gurus” giving their two cents worth about what drivers SHOULD be doing to stay healthy. Everything from lack of exercise, cramped work space to lung disease from diesel fumes are now proven to be connected to the lifestyle of a trucker contributing to shorter life spans than people in other careers. On the CDC’s Truck Driver Safety and Health page, they have stated, “Truck drivers face a disproportionately high risk for fatal crash-related injuries and for serious health disorders. ... Some research associates the risk of crash-related deaths with job-related fatigue. Other studies suggest that the risks of cancer, heart attacks, and other disorders may be associated with aspects of long-haul driving such as loading and unloading cargo, irregular schedules, long hours of driving, a sedentary lifestyle, and the nature of drivers’ food choices on the road.” Now that research has confirmed the health hazards of a trucking career it’s

time to start taking preventative steps to keep you healthy! In order for the change to be permanent, the ‘new habits’ must be formed slowly, within your comfort range….for long term, permanent results, pick 1 or 2 things about your habits, lifestyle or diet that you’d like to change, and START! The following health tips are practical and easy to implement. Read each tip and think about a way to get as close to your goal as you can. Be creative! 1. Drink water. So many health issues come from dehydration. The body doesn’t give signals to ‘drink’ until it’s already in a state of ‘dehydration’… that’s when you are thirsty. Try to sip water all day long, rather than just drinking when you are thirsty. (Goal Amount: ½ of your body weight in ounces) 2. Fruits & Vegetables. Eat as many as you’re able throughout the course of EVERY day. They contain lots of great vitamins and minerals for overall health and they help digestion, too. (Goal: 5-10 per day is good, more is better) 3. Avoid Stimulants. Use of stimulants in the industry was once

wide spread and commonplace. Time revealed stimulants took their toll on the health of drivers. Stimulants can range from coffee to energy drinks to drugs. Avoid these substances. They give your mind and body short term artifical boosts of energy and alertness. Your body knows when it needs rest…. give it the real thing. 4. Eat ‘Fewer Fatty Foods’. Ease up on the ‘junk’ like potato chips, chocolate bars, fries, burgers etc. They’ll plug up your arteries and cause lots of other problems too…. fatty foods are a big reason for poor truck driver health. Find other healthy things to snack on. (Walnuts, almonds, apples, whole grain crackers are decent snacks). 5. De-stress, Relaxation. Find ways to really relax and ‘de stress’ each day. This could be some favorite exercise or reading….. find things you can do to really let your brain “rest’…. and block out the world! Get out of the truck for breaks at least a few times each day, to avoid what the old timer’s called ‘white line fever’.

DO NOT GIVE UP and DO NOT GET FRUSTRATED….Be proud of your health accomplishments, no matter how small they might seem and of course…..

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF SO YOU COME HOME SAFE! 28 / NEW MEXICO TRUCKING

Join the NMTA -Much Depends Upon Us Your membership helps the trucking industry in New Mexico by promoting a good business environment with fair balance for all parties. NMTA is a lobbying organization designed to make sure your voice is heard by State legislatures and Federal Regulators. Beyond that NMTA provides a wide range of useful member services. NMTA also makes sure the public knows of the good deeds and benefits of having a strong trucking industry in the State. If you are thinking of joining NMTA, consider it an outstanding investment in the success of your business. Go to www.nmtrucking.org to join today! SPRING 2017 / 29

New Mexico CALENDAR

Upcoming Industry News and Events!

March 14-17 - HELP Board Meeting - Phoenix, AZ 22 - New Mexico TDC Meeting-NMTA Training Room 27 - DATA Q Meeting - Phoenix, AZ 27-29 - ATA SMC & TSC’S Annual Policy Conference-Alexandria, VA 28 - Sustainable Infrastructure Campaign Board of Advisors MeetingNMTA Training Room April 5 - SMC Monthly Meeting (Countdow to TDC!)-Location TBD 7 - NM Legislation not acted upon by Governor is Pocket Vetoed 16 - Easter Sunday May

NMTA Annual Event:

4 - New Mexico Trucking Highway Safety Alliance Annual Golf Tournament-Isleta Eagle Golf Course, Albuquerque,NM 5 - Member Breakfast Meeting-Isleta Casino & Resort Albuquerque, NM 5 - Break out Rooms and Informational Sessions-Isleta Casino & Resort Albuquerque, NM 5 - Trap Shoot @ AbqTrapshoot, Albuquerque, NM 5 - Friday Night Law Enforement Cocktail Hour-Isleta Casiono & Resort, Albuquerque,NM 6 - TDC (Truck Driving & Step Van Competition)-Isleta Casiono & Resort, Albuquerque,NM 6 - Supertech (Elite Technician Competition)-Isleta Casiono & Resort, Albuquerque,NM 6 - Light Duty Towing Course-Isleta Casiono & Resort, Albuquerque,NM 6 - Annual Awards Banquet @ Isleta Resort & Casino, Albuquerque, NM 7-10 - ATA Leadership Meeting-San Antonio, TX 14 - Mother’s Day 21 - NM Trucking Day @ Albuquerque Isotopes StadiumAlbuquerque, NM 29 - Memorial Day - Closed August 9-12 - National Truck Driving Championships-Orlando, FL September 8-10 - NMTA Call on Washington 10-16 - National Truck Driver Appreciation Week 16-19 - National SuperTech Competition-Orlando, FL 19-21 - TMC Fall Meeting-Orlando, FL

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WHOS’S SUPPORTING THE TRUCKING INDUSTRY IN THE STATE! Brewer Oil..........................................7, 23 CT Power ...............................................25 Cummins Rocky Mountain ....................7 Custom Health/Dr. Silverman ..............31 Great West Casualty Company ...........32 Great Western Leasing & Sales ..........18 JJ Keller (NMTA) ...................................25 Legal Shield ..........................................25 Meritor Drive force................................23 NY Life ...................................................29 Pro Drivers ............................................20 Purcell Tire ............................................27 Rush Truck Center.................................. 2 Summit .................................................... 6 TRSC ........................................................ 3 Truckers Against Trafficking ............... 21 Walwork Financial ................................ 25 Wells Fargo ........................................... 23 Western Assurance ................................ 8 NMTA Membership ................................. 4 NMT Magazine....................................... 29 NMTA Golf ............................................... 9 NMTA SuperTech .................................. 19 NMTA TDC ............................................. 17 NMTA Trap Shoot .................................. 22

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