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Officers Chairman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Wayne Watkins Vice Chairman . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Greg Brown Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bruce MacDonald Immediate Past Chairman . . . . .Kevin Savoy
ATA Board of Directors Steve Aronhalt, Dennis Bailey, Robert Barnett, Aubrey Baugh, Rhonda Bees, Joe Black, Gary Bond, Jack Brim, Ray Brock, Will Bruser, Mike Callahan, Dan Carmichael, Fenn Church, Mark Coffman, Jeff Coleman, John Collier, Rodger Collins, Driscoll Colquett, Brent Cook, Gail Cooper, Al Cox, Jerry Davis, Ranny Davis, Joe Donald, Edmund Doss, Mack Dove, Russ Elrod, Dean Flint, Jack Fricks, Terry Kilpatrick, Susan Kirkpatrick, Jason King, Mark Knotts, Jerry Kocan, Drew Linn, Hunter Lyons, Bart McCrory, Jeff McGrady, Barry McGriff, Tom McLeod, Buck Moore, E.H. Moore, Jr., Ross Neely, Jr., Tommy Neely, George Overstreet, Butch Owens, Clay Palm, Jim Pickens, Mike Pursley, David Rouse, Bill Scruggs, Danny Smith, Harold Sorrells, Ronnie Stephenson, Paul Storey, John Summerford, James Suttles, Bill Ward, Scott White, David Wildberger, Skip Williams, T.J. Willings, Keith Wise.
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Association officials have added three new drivers to its Alabama Road Team, a public outreach program designed to educate the public on how to drive near large commercial vehicles. After careful consideration, the panel chose Rodney Cosper, a driver for UPS Freight based in Trussville, Ala.; Rusty Holmes, also of UPS Freight and based in Odenville, Ala.; and Daniel Thompson, a driver for FedEx Freight based in Spanish Fort, Ala.
Trucker’s Trucker
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Chairman Wayne Watkins recently took control of the Association reins, bringing with him a trucker’s point-of-view, and the integrity, drive and practicality of someone who knows exactly the many obstacles average fleet owners face. Watkins was officially installed as the Association’s top elected official during a ceremony at the group’s headquarters in Montgomery on June 24. He’ll serve a one-year term through June 30, 2015.
J. Frank Filgo, CAE, President & CEO Tim Frazier, CDS, Director of Safety & Member Services Jane Nixon, Executive Assistant Lynn Thornton, Bookkeeper Ford Boswell, Director of Communications Brandie Norcross, Administrative Assistant
Kimble Coaker, CEO & Fund Administrator Don Boatright, COO Don Anchors, Director of Loss Control & Safety Todd Hager, Director of Claims Debra Calhoun, Office Manager Scott Hunter, MS, CDS, Loss Control Engineer Duane Calhoun, CDS, Loss Control Engineer Kimberly Best, Payroll/Audit Coordinator Kim Campbell, Underwriting Coordinator Katie Edwards, Accounting Specialist Kim Sims, Administrative Assistant
H I S
Rebuilding the Road Team
ATA Staff
ATA WCSIF Staff
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President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Safety Insights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 SMMC Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Trucking News Roundup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 ATA Events and New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Buyers’ Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Published quarterly by the Alabama Trucking Assn., P.O. Box 242337, Montgomery, AL 36124-2337. ADVERTISING RATES: Quoted upon request.
Alabama Trucking Association
Alabama Trucking Association 334-834-3983 • A LABAMA T RUCKER • 3 RD Q UARTER 2014
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From the President
The Perfect Board
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Frank Filgo, CAE President and CEO Alabama Trucking Association
‘Strong leadership propels us to achieve great things for our industry.’
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recently came across a book entitled The Perfect Board by Calvin K. Clemons that caught my eye. To be honest, I haven’t completed reading it, but as a student of association management, the book’s title certainly intrigued me. It reminds me of our ATA Board of Directors, and the leadership it provides this Association. I must admit, being “perfect” is a lofty accomplishment, but our Association is fortunate to have an active and engaged Board. I surmise that it’s the Association’s greatest strength – and strong leadership propels us to achieve great things for our industry Our Board of Directors is comprised of representatives of 57 member companies, including motor carrier and allied members. Our Board member firms represent only 8 percent of ATA’s total membership, but these elite members are the most supportive and loyal to the Association. Years ago, ATA began asking our Board members to sign a pledge of participation and support. In short order, Board members are asked to support Association events, regularly attend its meetings, and aggressively support the Association’s goals and objectives. The Alabama Trucking Association’s Annual Convention is one of the best financed annual conventions in comparison to those of other state trucking associations. That’s according to a recent survey by the American Trucking Research Institute (ATRI). Why? For starters, our Board member firms finance more than half of all event sponsorships — not just every now and then, but year- in and year-out. Another example of the Board’s exceptionalism is its support of ATA’s annual Golf Classic. On September 30, we play our 2014 event. As of this printing, the Board’s support represents 70 percent of its total sponsorships, a total of $193,000. The net from the event helps fund TRUK PAC, our Association’s political action committee. This support is the reason why ATA’s political action committee generates more state political funds that any other state trucking association. This 2014 election year, TRUK PAC will spend in excess of $1 million in support of pro-truck candidates. In addition to the Board’s financial support, ATA’s governing body makes all policy decisions. I’m reminded of the Board’s finest hour, in my opinion, recalling its decision to sup-
port the Metal Coil Act of Alabama of 2009. ATA Board members emphatically believed that a rash of metal coil spills in and around the Birmingham area was an industry problem and should be resolved by the industry. ATA fought hard to preserve the federal freight securement regulations, because they were proven to work if properly applied. Our stance took courage in the face of strong opposition from industry stakeholders beyond our borders. We made a decision to make our industry accountable for safety, and we made a difference. I still believe the fact that there have been no metal coil spills since enactment of the state law is proof that we did the right thing. The industry made it through that crisis because of the Board’s courageous decision to act responsively. More recently, the Association won a legal suit whereby Alabama’s motor carriers involved in interstate commerce could apportion their property taxes on tractors and trailers. The result was a major tax decrease for Alabama motor carriers. That, too, came as a result of a Board decision. There’s so much more, and I could go on and on about the accomplishments of the ATA Board of Directors, but I would be remiss if I did not mention the ATA Nominating Committee’s resolve to strengthen the Board on a year-to-year basis. That committee, consisting of all active past chairmen, reviews the contributions of existing Board members and makes recommendations to strengthen the Board. This year, the Board added five new members, including: Steve Aronhalt of AAA Cooper Transportation (Dothan), Susan Kirkpatrick of Buddy Moore Trucking (Birmingham), Hunter Lyons of Gulf City Trailer and Body Works (Mobile), Bart McCrory of Baldwin Transfer Co. (Mobile), and John Summerford of Summerford Truck Line (Ashford). The addition of these new Board members serves to strengthen an already accomplished governing body. In closing, I’m confident that the Board’s leadership will continue to serve this Association well. The structure is in place to ensure that it will always deliver exceptional member services. Thank you ATA Board Directors for your dedication and devotion to Alabama’s trucking industry. A LABAMA T RUCKER • 3 RD Q UARTER 2014
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Rebuilding the Association adds three drivers to its popular highway safety and public outreach program.
Alabama Road Team, from left, Rodney Cosper, Wayne Smith, Rusty Holmes, and Daniel Thompson
By Ford Boswell ore than a decade ago the Alabama Trucking Association created a public speaking program that sends professional truck drivers to high school driver’s education classes across Alabama to inform young people about the proper ways to drivc near large commercial trucks. Since its inception, more than a dozen drivers from ATA member firms has served on the Alabama Road Team visiting hundreds of high schools, churches and civic organizations to spread the message that Alabama’s trucking industry does care about safety and that trucking is a proud contributor to the state’s vast economy, providing tax revenue for local governments and jobs for its citizens. According to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration statis-
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tics for fatal accidents involving large commercial trucks and passenger cars in the U.S. have declined since 2000. Deadly crash rates for truck-car accidents here in Alabama have mirrored that trend, according the feds. Fatal accidents in the state involving trucks dropped from 153 in 2000 to 111 in 2012 (the most current figures available). Further examined, those statistics show that more than 75 percent of fatal crashes are determined to be the fault of a passenger car driver. Those numbers stress that the public is unaware of the best practices needed when driving near large trucks to avoid causing an accident. Clearly, that is not an excuse for the industry’s own problems. Truck drivers are professionals trained to predict and avoid situations that can lead to deadly accidents. Being alert and prepared for situations also includes being aware that most private drivers who may not realize the potential for danger when driving near large trucks.
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Road Team National safety awareness campaigns like the Share the Road, a program that seeks to alert drivers to the dangers of driving near large trucks, were created to inform the and train public drivers. The Alabama Road Team was the brainchild of former ATA safety director Gene Vonderau who modeled the program after America’s Road Team – a national public outreach program from the American Trucking Associations since 1986. That program is led by professional truck drivers who share superior driving skills, remarkable safety records and a strong desire to spread the word about safety on the highway. Early on, the Alabama Road Team’s main intent was to deliver safety presentations and driving tips at high school driver’s education classes. However, Vonderau’s vision was a more localized Road Team that focused on young drivers, figuring that the earlier a driver is exposed to the dangers and best practices of driving near large commercial vehicles the sooner he or she will adopt and use them. Another aspect was using professional truck drivers from a cross section of the state to serve their own local communities. That idea would give Team members’ message more substance and credibility – in essence these drivers would be more in tune with their target audience. Association leaders asked the membership for support, secured funding, and then embarked on recruiting veteran drivers who possess the leadership and communications skills needed as ambassadors for the state’s trucking industry. After a lengthy search process, the first class of the Alabama Road Team was selected. That first group included Roy Evans of the former Suttles Truck Leasing; Howard Kuykendall of former Whatley Contract Carriers; and Don Bowling of Wal-Mart Transportation. At the time, the men offered a combined century of experience behind the wheel of a truck and millions of accident-free miles between them. Nancy Hudson state director for Opera-
Members of the Road Team in training.
Daniel Thompson receives instruction on public speaking from Nancy Hudson of Operation Lifesaver.
To schedule a Road Team presentation for your business or group, contact Tim Frazier at tfrazier@alabamatrucking.org or call 334-834-3983
Continued on page 6
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tion Lifesaver trained team members for presentation and public speaking skills (She has trained every team member since), and soon each began scheduling and giving presentations on their own. Within months, as word spread of the Road Team’s mission, message, and effectiveness, all three men were booked solid with speaking engagements at area schools. Soon, requests came from trucking companies, churches, private clubs and civic organization. Through the years more than a dozen drivers have joined the team, typically serving for 2-3 year intervals and cycling off so others can serve. ATA’s current safety director Tim Frazier has expanded the team to include four drivers and has overseen two classes of team members. His vision remains one of safety and service. Last fall three of the four Road Team members announced plans to step down. A search to replace them began, and ATA received several qualified candidates. In March, Association officials chose five drivers to interview for the spots. Candidates delivered a five minute speech on a topic of their choice before an independent panel of judges that included Gene Vonderau; Nancy Hudson; Lt. Chris Brown from the Alabama Dept. Public Safety Motor Carrier Safety Unit; Theresa Jones, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Alabama Division Administrator; and Wayne Smith, a current Alabama Road Team member. After careful consideration, the panel chose Rodney Cosper, a driver for UPS Freight based in Trussville, Ala.; Rusty Holmes, also of UPS Freight and based in Odenville, Ala.; and Daniel Thompson, a driver for FedEx Freight based in Spanish Fort, Ala.
Meet the Road Team Rodney Cosper UPS Freight Trussville, Ala. UPS Freight driver Rodney Cosper began driving trucks in 1990, and has received numerous awards and recognitions for professionalism from his employer and other industry organizations. He joined the Road Team in April 2014. His passion for workplace and highway safety is infectious, says his supervisor Pat LaRock, who nominated him for the Team. “Rodney is very knowledgeable of the rules and regulations of the road and is energetic in passing on the message of safety to all his peers,” LaRock says. 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 that he can continue to teach other youths about responsible driving. “I take a lot of pride
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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 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. Another new Team member, Rusty Holmes has worked with UPS for more than 25 years, logging more than 1.5 million miles for the company’s facility in 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 represent the state at the National Trucking 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.”
Wayne Smith AAA Cooper Transportation Mobile, Ala. Wayne Smith is the Road Team’s most senior member, joining the Team in 2010 because he felt an urge to give back to a profession he loves. A veteran driver for AAA Cooper Transportation’s terminal near Mobile for more than 36 years, Smith has logged nearly 4 million miles with no accident, earning him numerous accolades from his employer and the Alabama Trucking Association. Smith is a smooth operator. His calm demeanor is an accurate reflection of his usual control of a situation. He has earned quite a following from local groups that request his appearance year-after-year. With Wayne what you see is what you get — and his audiences love him for it. He’s become one the more prolific presenters in recent years
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scheduling 2-3 engagements a month. That’s not always an easy task considering he drives evenings from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. “Wayne has an excellent reputation with many of our schools and civic organizations,” says ATA Director of Safety Tim Frazier. “With his dedication and passion for highway safety, he has been able to share these qualities with thousands of young people. His honest delivery and caring nature makes him a favorite.” Smith says he loves being a part of the Road Team. “For me there is no greater satisfaction with my job than when I show those kids my truck and trailer,” he says. “I love the look on their faces, answering their questions, and teaching them good, responsible driving habits — it’s a responsibility I take very seriously.”
Daniel Thompson FedEx Freight Mobile, Ala. Daniel (Dan) Thompson is a 35 year veteran truck driver based in Spanish Fort, Ala. He drives for FedEx Freight’s terminal in Theodore, Ala., which is located a few miles south of Mobile.
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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, 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 is a regular winner at the Alabama TDC where he won his division in 2011 and 2013. 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 fly fishing. “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.”
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Wayne Watkins, center, with his brothers and business partners, Randy Watkins (left) and David Watkins
Chairman of the Board Wayne Watkins brings a hard-working real-world approach to the helm of Alabama’s trucking industry.
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By Ford Boswell ith more than 40 years in trucking, the Alabama Trucking Association’s newest Chairman of the Board Wayne Watkins knows his industry from shop floor to boardroom — and all points in between. The 61-year-old co-owner of Watkins Trucking Co., a flatbed hauler based in Birmingham, Ala., is as comfortable sitting down with other executives for discussions on lofty topics affecting the industry as he is tearing down and rebuilding a diesel engine for one his operation’s trucks. Like most in trucking, he grew up around the business. His entire family going back three generations has worked in trucking. He even recalls his first paying gig at the age of
Safety Director Heather Darnell
six bumping truck tires for his grandfather’s small fleet of trucks. As he grew older, he took on more responsibility for the operation and continued to work part time throughout high school and during his studies at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he earned a degree in Business Administration in 1975. Today, the operation he manages with his brothers Randy, vice president, and David, secretary/treasurer, has been in business in one form or another for nearly 70 years. First, as a rural passenger bus operation, then later as a lease operator with some of the area’s most storied trucking firms, and eventually obtaining its own authority in 1989. Watkins has been a fixture on ATA’s executive board for more than a decade. He takes control of the Association reins, bringing
with him a trucker’s point-of-view and the integrity, drive and practicality of someone who knows exactly the many obstacles average fleet owners face. Watkins was officially installed as the Association’s top elected official during a ceremony at the group’s headquarters in Montgomery on June 24. He’ll serve a one-year term through June 30, 2015 (ATA operates on July 1 fiscal year). “It is with great honor and anticipation that I begin my service as the Chairman of the Alabama Trucking Association,” he says. “This association is truly a backbone of support for trucking in Alabama, and has been for nearly 80 years. We have a great membership base, strong leadership, and a terrific staff that looks after the current and future needs of the industry. I just
Rick Davis, operations
Rose D’Ambrose, billing
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hope that in retrospect I will see that I took full advantage of opportunities to help move trucking forward as a safe, innovative, and contributing sector to the progress of our state and nation’s economies.”
Trucking Roots The family’s roots in trucking stretch deep to the early part of the last century when the brother’s grandfather Irvin Watkins operated passenger busses that served farming communities in north Alabama. Irvin (or Pops, as he was known) added a few over-the-roadtrucks and moved his operation to Decatur, where he branched steadily into Company founder Irvin “Pops” trucking. By Watkins the mid1940s, he was leasing several tractors with another long-time Association member, Baggett Transportation of Birmingham. Over time, Irvin continued to add equipment and improve operations under Baggett’s authority. By mid-century, he’d moved his operation from Decatur to Birmingham to be closer to Baggett’s customer base. Also during this time, Irvin’s son Jerry had completed a stint in the Navy and began working at Baggett in sales and later as the firm’s safety director. Jerry worked for Baggett for more than 25 years, but as the industry began to change, and trucking faced uncertainty toward the end of the 1970s, he eventually joined the family business. (An interesting side note: During his later years with Baggett, Jerry served as a Chairman of the Association’s Safety Council, now known as the Safety & Maintenance Management Council.)
Growing Independence By the early 1980s, industry consolidation and acquisitions amongst carriers and manufacturers became more prevalent. But even with the industry experiencing sharp growing pains from deregulation, the Watkins’ operation remained profitable. By now Pops had retired, and each remaining family member assumed more responsibility managing the business. On top of that, a severe global recession wreaked havoc among manufacturing causing turbu10
Service techs, left to right Jeremy Evans, Randy Gardner and Ryan Holtsbrooks
“At first we operated about 20 trucks of our own and a few owner-operators,” Wayne says. “Randy, David and I all had to take on different roles with the new company. Up until then the three of us worked mostly in the shop, keeping trucks going – of course we all did a lot of operations work, too – but working in the shop was where we were needed most. Because we were working with someone else’s authority we didn’t have to go out and get freight – it more or less came to us – and we all concentrated more on operations.” But that all changed once the family obtained its own authority. “I moved to outside sales,” Wayne says. “That meant that for the first time in my career I had to wear a suit every day and worked mostly outside the office finding freight. Randy and David concentrated more on the overall fleet management, including equipment maintenance, dispatching, bookkeeping, etc. It was a change for all of us.”
Steady Growth Watkins Trucking has a long history for solid maintenance regimens.
lence throughout the trucking industry. Uncertainty and continual upheaval hamstrung the Watkins’s business, which was now supporting four separate families. “We’d be leased to somebody one day, and then that company would sell or fold and we’d be leased to someone else the next – it was crazy,” Wayne recalls. “We went on like that all through the late ’70s and early ’80s until finally my brothers and I convinced our dad to apply for our own authority. Our families were growing, which meant we needed to grow the business to support us all.” The process took a year or two, but the business finally received its authority in 1989 hauling its first load as Watkins Trucking Co. for McWayne Cast Iron Pipe Co. to Mobile, Ala. going to the export market. Wayne admits the operation grew slowly, and occasionally struggled with cash flow the first year or two, but the family watched closely every penny and continued working long, hard hours, doing whatever was needed.
Carol Alston (payroll) and Colleen Whitaker (bookkeeper)
Wayne says it took the business five years to settle into a routine with a few solid customers and also to adjust to the new roles the family had in the daily operations. As the 1990s progressed, and the nation’s economy improved, Watkins Trucking increased profits each year, allowing it to grow and strengthen operations. By the end of the decade, the business increased capacity from 20 trucks to more than 80. “It was the first time since going independent that we all felt really optimistic about things,” Wayne says. “We still kept a close eye on expenses. We bought good used trucks, did most of the engine work ourselves, and concentrated on comfortably maintaining what we had.” However, markets soured by 2001, and several of the operation’s large manufacturing accounts filed for bankruptcy, causing a little restructuring of accounts. Wayne says the turbulence in the economy slowed growth a bit, but they held on and the ensuing five years were some of the best the company has seen. It wouldn’t last. “As 2007 approached, I could just feel something wasn’t right.” Wayne recalls. “Flatbed is a good leading indicator of the economy because we are hauling raw materials such as steel and rebar to all types of manufacturers,” Wayne says. “If those businesses are doing well, then the economy is also doing well. I was seeing freight turn down, and I didn’t really know why.” Also during this time, fuel price were spiking across the country. “Like a lot of A LABAMA T RUCKER • 3 RD Q UARTER 2014
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others out there, we were blessed to have some really good fuel surcharges in place, but it was still difficult staying ahead of the curve,” he says. “(Cash flow) is always difficult for an operation of our size. We circled the wagons, restructured some things, and continued to keep operational costs low. Fortunately, we didn’t have to let go of any full-time staff. Since then, we’ve worked hard and have done quite well for ourselves. Today, Watkins Trucking hauls a variety of lengthy building products such as rebar castiron pipes, structural steel, coils, plates, bricks and lumber on flatbed and drop-deck trailers. Because of the length of those loads, Watkins needs trucks that can provide flexibility and reliability with difficult loads. “We have even started buying more new trucks – something we rarely did early on,” he says. “We have replaced all of our trailers; now
Industry Leader
Watkins considers his appointment to Chairman of the Board for ATA among his greatest career achievements. What he brings to the Association is honesty, tenacity, and sense of pride for his trucking roots. Even to this day, he still maintains a valid Alabama commercial driver license. The truth is: He represents an everyman in trucking, and that’s how he plans to lead. He also understands the importance of his position as head of the state’s trucking industry. He knows what he and his executive board accomplish during the next year will impact Alabama trucking businesses for many years to come. That ideal clearly energizes him. “I consider my participation and leadership in the Alabama Trucking Association as my contribution to support not only my family but the many other trucking families out there,” he says. “My father served the Association as chairman of our safety council, and I feel blessed to have this opportunity to serve, too.” Watkins has developed a 10-Point Plan for his tenure with goals he plans to acWayne with children (from left) Reilly Armstrong, Bo Watkins and Katie Watkins complish. “This Association has been blessed through the years with most are less than three years old.” many talented leaders who really care about Officially the operation has 85 trucks and trucking,” Watkins says. “I plan to continue 120 trailers. The company maintains 50 their work to improve the business climate full-time drivers, 35 owner-operators, three in Alabama and beyond. I want to address full-time service techs and a small staff of pressing issues like highway funding and inoffice personnel. dustry safety.” For its customers, the company offers He says he also wants to increase public dedicated and irregular routes, over dimenawareness of the many measures our industry sion freight, truckload, less-than-truckload, takes toward highway and workplace safety. and heavy haul. The company hauls to and “We’ve all seen those local (plaintiff ’s atfrom 35 states within a 1,000-mile radius of torney) commercials that continuously call Birmingham. There are a lot 200- and 300into questions our commitment to safety,” he mile runs, Wayne adds. says. “The American Trucking Associations Wayne’s adult children are also involved. recently unveiled its public awareness camOldest daughter Reilly Armstrong has been paign to showcase trucking’s strongpoints. I with the company for more than 15 years in want to piggy back on that and also impleoperations and accounting; middle child ment some of the ideas previous Chairman Kati Watkins also works in operations; and Kevin Savoy has for a state-level PR camyoungest son Bo works in operations and paign. We are working on that now with outside sales. Wayne’s wife of 38 years, Jane, plans to put that campaign to work soon. I has also worked for the company in years want to do all I can to improve our Associapast as a bookkeeper, but is now a school tion, and with the help of the Board, and the counselor for the Jefferson County School ATA membership at large, we will.” System. A LABAMA T RUCKER • 3 RD Q UARTER 2014
Chairman Watkins’ Ten Point Plan 1. Present a legal challenge to the Alabama Department of Revenue’s practice of appraising motor vehicle equipment, for property tax purposes, based on the MSRP. 2. Assist and support Alabama motor carriers in obtaining their property tax refunds resulting from the B-H Transfer Co. vs. Magee suit. 3. Advocate practical, working solutions to our state’s highway funding needs; defeat efforts to toll “existing” roads. 4. Improve member participation in all ATA sponsored programs and events including the Annual Convention, the Golf Classic, the Truck Driving Championships, SMMC educational programs, the SMMC Fleet Safety Awards, among others. 5. Expand ATA’s educational and public relations efforts-including its image campaign to meet members’ needs. 6. Reduce the number of ATA member motor carriers with high CSA scores and work diligently to improve the overall safety performance of the industry. 7. Schedule visitations with ATA new member firms, and others, for the purpose of improving membership services. 8. Fund TRUK-PAC at an annual rate of $250,000 per year. 9. Through its political action arm, TRUK PAC, win the critical November contests to elect additional probusiness state legislators. 10. Improve ATA’s legislative advocacy program by increasing member participation in its grassroots contact program.
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SAFETY & MAINTENANCE Safety Insights
Tim Frazier, CDS ATA Director of Safety and Member Services
NOTE: In taking calls from our members, there seems to be a lot of confusion, misunderstanding and over reaction to recent regulation changes, especially those with regard to implementation of the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) and regulation (or lack thereof) of drivers with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Many carriers report they are facing obstacles when certifying drivers. Further, many medical providers have made the decision to no longer provide services that include performing physicals for CMV drivers. Two major areas of concern are 1) Motor Carriers need to verify through the national registry that their medical provider has completed the necessary certification to conduct commercial driver physicals, and 2) Should Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and the commercial driver issue arise, carriers need to be familiar with the regulations that are (and are not) required regarding this matter. The following information comes from the American Trucking Associations. I hope it will assist you to better understand these issues. —Tim Frazier
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isinformation and the misapplication of federal standards have caused widespread concern over the inconsistent practices of certified medical examiners. Moreover, motor carriers are 14
Clarification on Driver Medical Qualification & Sleep Apnea experiencing drivers within their fleet being held to different medical standards for testing and treatment of OSA. FMCSA has clearly divided the medical criteria for commercial motor vehicles into two categories: Physical Qualification Standards and Advisory Criteria/Guidance. Physical qualifications standards refer to requirements delineated in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. These are legal requirements for interstate commercial motor vehicle drivers, vehicles and motor carriers. The Medical Examiner’s Handbook, the primary reference tool for certified medical examiners highlights the difference between the two: “As a medical examiner, it is important for you to distinguish between medical standards and medical guidelines. Regulations/standards are laws and must be followed; whereas, guidelines such as advisory criteria and medical conference reports are recommendations. While not law, the guidelines are intended as best practices for medical examiners.” (p. 51) It goes on to indicate that “this Medical Examiner Handbook will be updated as new standards and guidelines are approved by FMCSA.” (p. 52) The regulation that addresses obstructive sleep apnea is found in 49 C.F.R. 391.41(b)(5) and reads: “[A person is physically qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle if that person] has no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of respiratory dysfunction likely to interfere with his/her ability to control and drive a commercial motor vehicle safely.” Meanwhile, the Medical Examiner’s Handbook provides a detailed overview of respiratory conditions that may interfere with oxygen exchange and pose a potential safety risk and the medical examiners responsibility to assess respiratory function. “As the medical examiner, your fundamental obligation during the respiratory assessment is to establish whether a driver has a respiratory disease or disorder that increases the risk for sudden death or incapacitation, thus endangering public safety” (p. 118). The medical examiner handbook does list obstructive sleep apnea as an example of res-
piratory condition that may inhibit oxygen exchange. However, the health history portion of the required Medical Examination Report contains a question seeking to uncover sleep disorders. What the Medical Examiner’s Handbook does not state: As referenced earlier, the Medical Examiner’s Handbook is appropriately divided into sections outlining medical standards and others detailing advisory criteria/guidance. Each of the twelve physical qualification standards outlined in the regulations (49 C.F.R 391.41(b)(1-12)) contain comprehensive discussions of the appropriate standards and detailed treatment of the associated advisory criteria/guidance. The advisory criteria/guidance sections highlight specific medical conditions, as approved by FMCSA, to be considered. The advisory criteria/guidance portion provides a thorough review of relevant medical conditions and discusses applicable waiting periods, and recommendations of whether or not to certify a driver and for how long. There are no advisory criteria specifically for OSA. There are misconceptions. Many certified medical examiners are operating under the false pretense that drivers who exhibit specific risk factors (e.g. BMI >35kg/m2 or large neck circumference) must undergo a sleep study for OSA before they can be certified. While BMI and neck size may be indicators, there are many factors that may put a driver at risk for OSA and they should be viewed collectively. There are several organizations misleading medical examiners by contending that sleep testing of all drivers is a regulatory requirement. The American Trucking Associations has fielded many inquiries from concerned individuals and organizations seeking clarification about what they understand to be new Department of Transportation regulations. To be clear, no such regulations or even advisory criteria specifically on OSA exist. It is the responsibility of the certified medical examiner to use his or her best judgment to certify that a driver is medically qualified to perform the functions of a professional truck driver. An examiner may be, at times, A LABAMA T RUCKER • 3 RD Q UARTER 2014
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MANAGEMENT COUNCIL NEWS justified in requiring additional testing to rule out sleep disorders. It is not however, a regulatory requirement to test every driver who exhibits a single risk fact (e.g. high BMI).
Medical Examiner Registry With the recent implementation of the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME), motor carriers are discovering that many of the medical examiners that were performing physicals on their drivers have decided not to continue providing that service. As a result, trucking companies and their drivers are forging new relationships with the medical community to ensure compliance. Medical examiners wishing to be listed on the NRCME must now undergo extensive training and testing before being registered and every five years thereafter. The training ensures doctors have a thorough understanding of the life of a truck driver and the unique operating environment associated with it. Medical examiners are also given detailed explanations of twelve physical qualification categories listed in the federal regulations (49 CFR 391.41(b)). They are also provided with FMCSA approved medical guidance and medical advisories they are encouraged to follow. With this additional training comes heightened awareness of potential liability concerns medical examiners face when determining if a driver is qualified. As a result, many drivers are facing more scrutiny during examination than they have in the past – particularly to obstructive sleep apnea. Also, because the pool of available medical examiners has contracted and doctors are forced to bear the additional cost in terms of training and administrative overhead, many motor carriers and drivers are reported significant increases in the cost of a medical qualification physical. When forging new relationships with medical examiners, it is increasingly important to engage potential medical examiners in thoughtful conversation before committing to their services. Trucking companies and drivers should ask questions when seeking out a new medical examiner. Find out if the examiner screens for OSA and what their screening criteria are. Ask about what happens after a driver has been diagnosed and what tests are required. Ask when the driver will be released to drive again and what monitoring will in entail after diagnosis. These are only suggested conversation topics. The key to this issue is to make sure you have an agreement in place with your medical provider on how your drivers will be treated. You want to make sure you get most of the unknown elements discussed so you can plan your costs in terms of time, number of drivers off-duty and insurance plan coverage. A LABAMA T RUCKER • 3 RD Q UARTER 2014
Wisconsin driver wins National TDC A Con-way Freight driver from Plover, Wis., Jeffrey Langenhahn, won the Bendix 2014 grand championship at the National Truck Driving Championships Aug. 16. Langenhahn, a father of five, also won first place in the Twins division at the 77th annual NTDC, which this year drew 426 drivers who competed in nine divisions. Christopher Shaw, a FedEx Express driver from Albuquerque, New Mexico, took the top honors in the sixth annual National Step Van Driving Championships, which are held at the same time each year at the NTDC. Both Shaw and Langenhahn were marking their fifth year of national competition. “I feel like I’m in a dream,” Langenhahn told Transport Topics as a crush of well-wishers pressed to shake his hand at the awards banquet. “I always wanted to be able to get into the drive-off just to get a chance to win,” he said of the final competition in the Twins division Saturday. “And I’m so happy to finally bring one home and to win grand champion, I’m just so excited,” he said. Langenhahn has logged 28 years as a driver, with over 1.9 million miles behind the wheel, according to American Trucking Associations, which founded the national event. The grand championship award is sponsored by Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems. Shaw, a father of two who drives a FedEx route in Albuquerque, called his win “amazing, just amazing.” Shaw said that after competing against four other finalists on Saturday he thought he had scored well. “I thought I had a chance, however, you never know how the other guys did and we had a gal in my class this year.” Christy Tolbert of Richland Hills, Texas, was the only woman finalist this year. The awards were presented after a week of competition in nine divisions, with written testing, a pre-trip check contest and a driving competition. First-place winners in the seven
other divisions were: Brendan Sharp, Straight Truck, FedEx Freight, Henderson, Colo.; Basher Pierce, 3-Axle, FedEx Freight, Sophia, NC; James Quarles, 4-Axle Wal-Mart Transportation, Laurens, South Carolina; Wayne Gootee, 5-Axle, Wal-Mart Transportation, Brooklyn, Mich.; Matt Awbrey, Sleeper, Wal-Mart Transportation, Franklin, Ga. Paul Brandon, Flatbed, FedEx Freight, Oxford, Conn.; and Christopher Miller, Tanker, United Petroleum Transportation, Cowetta, Okla. David Guinn of Mulberry, Florida, a driver for Publix Super Markets Inc., was named 2014 Rookie of the Year after competing in the five-axle division. To qualify as a rookie a driver must be competing for the first time at the state and national levels.
Trucking groups push to hide CSA data from public view Concerned that inaccurate data will scar undeserving fleets’ reputations, a coalition of industry groups is putting pressure on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to remove Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) safety scores from public view. In an August 22 letter to Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx, American Trucking Associations and 10 other groups said the scores are not likely to provide an accurate assessment of a carrier’s safety. They also asked Foxx to tell FMCSA to make CSA improvements a high priority. CSA uses data from crashes and roadside inspections to flag carriers for enforcement action. The industry generally supports the aims of CSA but has repeatedly said that the program’s Safety Measurement System posts data that is neither consistent nor accurate. In their letter, the groups cited a February 2014 study by the Government Accountability Office that said shortcomings in the data means CSA is not as strong a predictor of crash risk as it could be. GAO did not look specifically at the question of public access in its study. Continued on page 16 15
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News “Due to ongoing litigation related to CSA and the publication of SMS scores, we did not assess the potential effects or tradeoffs resulting from the display or any public use of these scores,” GAO said in its report. FMCSA has opposed removing the data from public view in the past, and the carriers told Foxx they expect the agency to repeat its contention that other research shows carriers with high scores in some SMS categories are more likely to be involved in a crash. But this argument ignores that these analyses are focused on industry-wide averages, they said. “In contrast, GAO’s analysis found scores to be unreliable predictors of individual fleet crash performance,” the carriers said. The solution, the carriers said, is to remove the scores from public view. “Doing so will not only spare motor carriers harm from erroneous scores, but will also reduce the possibility that the marketplace will drive business to potentially risky carriers that are erroneously being painted as more safe.” Joining ATA are the American Bus Association, American Moving & Storage Association, Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, National School Transportation Association, National Tank Truck Carriers, Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association, Truckload Carriers Association and United Motorcoach Association.
Richardson to lead Public Safety Gov. Robert Bentley has appointed John Richardson to serve as acting Director of the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS). “For nearly three decades, John Richardson has been a dedi- John Richardson cated law enforcement officer,” Governor Robert Bentley said. “He is a strong leader and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the 16
Alabama Department of Public Safety. I appreciate his willingness to serve and continue our efforts to streamline Alabama’s law enforcement agencies into one efficient department.” In 1988, Richardson began his career in state law enforcement as an agent with the ABC Enforcement Division where he was assigned to the Narcotics Bureau. As an undercover narcotics agent, he worked with other state and federal law enforcement agencies resulting in hundreds of arrests and convictions. Most recently, Richardson served as the Assistant Director of ABC’s Enforcement Division. During Richardson’s tenure at ABC he was responsible for strategic oversight, daily operations of the division including implementing and maintaining organizational goals and objectives established by the executive and legislative branches. In addition to his extensive law enforcement career in Alabama, Richardson served in the United States Marine Corps from 1981-1985. “I want to express my sincere appreciation to Governor Bentley for his confidence in me and for affording me the opportunity to lead the Department of Public Safety,” Richardson said. “Since 1935, the department has played a pivotal role in state law enforcement and the protection of Alabama citizens. As we move forward with the consolidation of state law enforcement in the coming months, I pledge to continue this longstanding commitment to the citizens of Alabama, while working toward providing a more effective and efficient department.” The Department of Public Safety will become a part of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency January 1, 2015. Prior to being appointed Colonel of the Alabama Department of Public Safety, John E. Richardson served as assistant director of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board’s Enforcement Division. Richardson, working in conjunction with the director, was responsible for strategic oversight as well as the daily operations of the division including implementing and maintaining organizational goals and objectives established by the Alabama Legislature and the Administration. A veteran law enforcement officer, Richardson has forged positive relationships with local, state and federal agencies. Richardson began his law enforcement career in 1985 as a patrol officer, subsequently earning a position as an investigator. With DPS, Richardson subsequently advanced in rank to sergeant, assistant district supervisor, lieutenant, captain, assistant administrator and assistant director.
In addition to his extensive law enforcement career in Alabama, Richardson served in the United States Marine Corps from 1981 to 1985. Richardson is married to the former DeWanda Jackson, and they have one son, Jaron.
Dealership offers young service techs a head start With a shortage of well-trained diesel service techs to man its five locations, Four Star Freightliner, Inc. has started a training program for promising, young techs from an area community college and giving them a chance to learn on the job while work alongside seasoned technicians. Four Star president Jerry Kocan says he created the program to fill a void and to secure future technicians for his five dealerships across the Southeast. “We’ve had to go out and find young men and groom them through our own internal systems,” Kocan said. He appointed service training manager David Carroll to lead the program from the dealership’s Dothan location. Four Star partnered with the Diesel and Heavy Equipment Mechanics program at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College in Opp, Ala. Program director Eddie Spann recommended three students for the pilot program. Students work in the shop on a parttime basis while they complete their formal training at LBW. “They teach me something every day,” said trainee Blake Flowers of Jack, Ala. “As soon as you think you know a good bit, you’re wrong. There’s always something causing problems that you’ve never seen.” Flowers’ classmate John Matthew of Sampson, Ala. agrees. “This is an once-in-alifetime opportunity to come here and do this, then to take what I learned here and go back to school,” he said. Carroll calls the program a “win-win situation” for the trainees and Four Star Freightliner. “We want to develop these guys, bring them along and help them any way we can,” said Carroll. “They love it. They can’t wait to get to work. It has really motivated them to do better.” For some of the trainees it’s a perfect situation of training and an opportunity to maybe land a great job after graduation. “I grew up around cars,” said Cory Anderson from Opp, Ala. “My daddy was in the body business. I always like traveling, watching the 18-wheelers roll by. I always thought that was cool.” After graduating from LBW, the students will be offered positions at a Four Star dealContinued on page 18 A LABAMA T RUCKER • 3 RD Q UARTER 2014
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News ership. Once they’re employed, the dealership will also offer each tech a tool allowance. Carroll said he believes the program will continue to expand and catch on at other places. He said the students have a great opportunity to make a good living and be close to home.
Bills would adjust truck weight limit for natural gas The House and Senate have bills that would raise federal truck weight limits to accommodate the heavier fuel systems of natural gas vehicles. Natural gas trucks can weigh as much as 2,000 pounds more than equivalent diesel trucks, due to their heavier fuel tanks and other equipment. This puts these trucks at a competitive disadvantage, say legislators who have proposed bills to ease the weight restrictions.
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Sens. James Inhofe, R-Okla., and Joe Donnelly, D-Ind., recently introduced the Natural Gas Long Haul Truck Competitiveness Act, complementing a similar measure introduced in the House in January by Rep. Sam Graves, R-Mo. The bills would let the Department of Transportation permit natural gas trucks to exceed the 80,000-pound Interstate limit by the weight of their tank and fueling system. “Natural gas is a clean and affordable domestic energy resource that has the potential to drive American energy independence to reality,” Inhofe said in a statement. “This legislation brings the federal regulation for long-haul trucks into the 21st century by giving natural gas powered trucks the ability to compete on the same playing field in the amount of freight it can transport.” Trucking and natural gas interests applauded the move. “Natural gas holds great promise for our industry and our economy,” said American Trucking Associations President and CEO Bill Graves in a statement. “While there are still many details and specifications to address on this complex issue, we look forward to working with [Sens. Inhofe and Donnelly] on this important energy and transportation matter,” he said.
Rich Kolodziej, president of NGVAmerica, said the extra weight of the gear causes a 2-to-3% revenue loss due to reduced payload. “Legislation such as this will help accelerate the growth of the NGV market and provide our country with the environmental benefits and greater energy independence that comes with using clean domestic natural gas as a vehicle fuel,” he said. Dave Crompton, president of Cummins Engine Business, said the legislation would eliminate a disincentive for use of natural gas in heavy-duty trucks. “We continue to look for different ways to help our customers be as successful as possible, and natural gas provides an additional cost-effective alternative for some of them,” he said in a statement. —Heavy Duty Trucking
Feds greenlight truck drivers with diabetes Certain truck drivers who suffer from diabetes will be allowed to operate commercial motor vehicles in spite of their health conditions. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is exempting dozens of truck drivers who use insulin to treat Continued on page 22
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Same-Sex trucking trainer ruled discriminatory By Tommy Eden
News their diabetes from rules that would otherwise prohibit them from operating a truck. “FMCSA evaluated the eligibility of the drivers and determined that granting the exemptions to these individuals would achieve a level of safety equivalent to or greater than the level that would be achieved by complying with the current regulation,” the agency wrote in the Federal Register. The rules are intended to prevent truck drivers from endangering other drivers on the road. Federal regulators have begun cracking down on truckers who violate these and other safety regulations, particularly in the wake of the crash that nearly killed comedian Tracy Morgan. The FMCSA said Tuesday that these 72 drivers who use insulin to treat their diabetes have it reasonably under control and do not pose any additional danger to other drivers on the road. They will receive a twoyear exemption from the rules. The FMCSA is not exempting all drivers who use insulin from the rules, however — only those that it believes do not pose a risk on the roads. Furthermore, truck drivers that no longer need insulin to treat their diabetes are also exempt from the rules.
St. Louis-based New Prime Inc. implemented a same-sex trainer policy in 2004. Prime is an interstate trucking company with over 4,000 trucks and about 6,700 drivers, both independent contractors and employees. It required all applicants who do not meet Prime’s driver experience requirements to receive over-the-road training by an instructor and/or trainer who is the same gender as the applicant unless there is some preexisting relationship between the female applicant and male instructor/trainer. The over the road training could take up to one year depending on the trainee’s level of past experience. Prior to the adoption of this policy, women were put on trucks with the first available instructor/trainer regardless of their gender. The same-sex trainer policy was adopted after Prime was involved in a sexual harassment case brought by three female truck driver trainees. The effect of this policy was that when a female applicant was ready to be assigned to a trainer or instructor a female driver had to be available and or was placed on a “female waiting list”. Prime only had 5 female trainers and hundreds of female applicants. Prime did not have a male waiting list. The female waiting list could be longer than a year. Deanna Clouse, a female, applied for enrollment with Prime’s driver training program. In January 2009, Clouse was told Prime would call her when they had a female trainer available but “not to hold her breath.” She informed Prime that she was willing to be trained by a man in order to enter the training program but was told that was not allowed. After 6 months with no call, Clouse filed an EEOC charge. The EEOC then took on Clouse’s case and converted it into a class investigation, and later filed suit in Federal Court. In August, a Federal District Judge ruled that the Prime Same-Sex Training Policy was unlawfully discriminatory under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. There is a class of 675 females who will most likely participate in the damage stage of the case. Common Sense Counsel: The only thing worse than not reacting to complaints of harassment is over reacting. This week the Office of Federal Complaint Compliance issued directives on gender-identity discrimination. So when you do your next respectful workplace training consider including sexual orientation and gender identification and follow these seven tips: 1) include all protected classifications; 2) provide “suitable for work” examples; 3) explain various reporting channels; 4) make sure you are using a legally compliant policy; 5) avoid legalese; 6) do it regularly; and 7) get a signed policy receipt. Tommy Eden is a partner working out of the Constangy, Brooks & Smith, LLP offices in Opelika, Ala. and West Point, Ga. He can be contacted at teden@constangy.com or 334246-2901.
TACT program gets “Rave” review
In August, the Alabama Dept. of Public Safety and the Alabama Trucking Association held another TACT operation on I-59 near Tuscaloosa. TACT stands for Ticketing Aggressive Cars and Trucks and targets bad driving of both private and commercial vehicles. State troopers ride with truck drivers (for this operation supplied by ATA member Century Dedicated of Cottondale, Ala.) allowing them to identify dangerous driving and radio ahead for other troopers to pull over the offending motorists. State news media was invited this time around, and the operation was given considerable media coverage. The Montgomery Advertiser even gave DPS and ATA a “Rave” in its regular “Rants and Raves” commentary section. “The idea is not to write a lot of tickets, but to change driver behavior. That is certainly needed,” stated the Advertiser. 22
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ROUNDUP T RU C K I N G I N D U S T RY
Former ATA Chairman Bill Watson dies
Former Alabama Trucking Association Chairman of the Board William (Bill) Watson of Anniston, Ala. died August 3 after a brief illness at his home in Anniston, Ala. He was 85. Watson was a Bill Watson beloved and respected member of the Association who served as its Chairman in 2005, sitting on numerous committees and task forces. He also received ATA’s lifetime achievement honor, the H.
Chester Webb Award for Distinguished Service in 2000. He was known in trucking circles for his good-nature and warm demeanor, but also as a solid businessman who had a knack for building great trucking operations. He retired from B.R. Williams Trucking in Oxford, Ala. in 2009 after 38 years with the company. All total, he spent nearly 50 years in the trucking business. Watson joined the Association in 1961 and was an ardent supporter his entire career. Under his leadership, B.R. Williams and its employees received numerous awards for safety, including Alabama Driver of the Year Awards in 1973 and 1989; and Safety Professional of the Year Awards in 1989 and 2001. Likewise, the company’s
American Trucking Associations Donates $100,000 to Trucking Moves America Forward The American Trucking Associations announced a $100,000 commitment to help Trucking Moves America Forward – the growing industry-wide movement – tell the positive stories of the trucking industry and its essentiality to America’s economy and communities. With ATA’s donation, TMAF stands at $700,000 towards its goal to raise one million dollars by the end of the year. TMAF – launched in March at the Mid-America Trucking Show – is an industry-wide image and internal education initiative informing policy makers, motorists and the public about the benefits of the trucking industry to help build a groundswell of political and grassroots support necessary to strengthen and grow the industry. “One of our most important jobs is to tell the trucking industry’s story,” said ATA President and CEO Bill Graves. “There’s so much to know about the safety, the essentiality and the sustainability efforts of this industry and Trucking Moves America Forward has been designed to do just that.” “We have come a long way in almost two years of planning and preparation, and now ATA is proud to announce we’re taking our support to a higher level today announcing a contribution of $100,000 to Trucking Moves America Forward,” Graves said. ATA’s contribution brings TMAF closer to its goal of raising $1 million to fund its educational and outreach mission. “It is not surprising that the industry’s vendors and suppliers are embracing the movement, as well as other industry organizations like National Tank Truck Carriers and the Truck Dealers Association,” said Kevin Burch, president of Jet Express and vice chairman of ATA. “Associations like OOIDA, the Truckload Carriers Association and Specialized Carriers and Rigging Association all are spreading the message.” “As an industry-wide image campaign, we’re happy that such a prominent industry association as American Trucking Associations is now combining its in-kind contributions with financial ones,” said Mike Card, Chairman of the TMAF Fundraising Committee and president of Combined Transport. “TMAF has been overwhelmed with the support we’ve received from all corners of the industry and look to continue this momentum this year and beyond.” To join the movement, go to www.truckingmovesamerica.com 24
insurance carrier, Liberty Mutual, also presented it with several Silver and Gold Awards for exceptional safety record while under Mr. Watson’s leadership. He was also a highly respected community leader in Calhoun County where he was active with the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce, serving many years as a board member. He worked tirelessly on behalf of the Chamber to keep Fort McClellan open when it was announced in the mid-1990s that the Army had plans to close it. He fought valiantly to save thousands of civilian jobs at the Fort and millions in local revenue. However, those efforts failed in 1999 when the base was closed permanently. He then focused attention on the proper reuse of that important property and recruiting new businesses to the area. For his efforts, he was awarded the 1995 Chairman’s Cup, an award presented to a Chamber of Commerce Board Member who has gone above and beyond the call of duty in making significant contributions on behalf of the Chamber. Mr. Watson attended Jacksonville State University where he played football until a knee injury ended his career. After college, he married and began working in trucking managing a small fleet of over-the-road trucks for a grocery store supplier. As that operation grew, he leased trucks to Georgia Highway Express in 1957. Following that, he led the transportation department at Alabama Pipe Co. Then in 1971, he received a call from Ruth Williams, a recently widowed, former schoolteacher who was looking for an experienced manager to help with her trucking company. Williams’ husband B.R. (or Bill, as he was known) had recently died from severe burns he received in a shop accident. Mrs. Williams had always been involved with the business as a bookkeeper, but was overwhelmed with the idea of running a trucking business on her own, especially as a young widow with several small children. At the time, the company was operating nine trucks for one main customer. Williams wanted to bring someone with more experience on the trucking side into the fold to share the workload and to help lay a foundation for expansion and growth. Continued on page 26 A LABAMA T RUCKER • 3 RD Q UARTER 2014
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ROUNDUP T RU C K I N G I N D U S T RY
Under Watson, the company grew not only in operations and size, but also in stature within the trucking industry. Today, the company is among the largest and most respected trucking operations in the state. Several of its fleet managers serve on ATA’s leadership board, including Jack Brim, who also served as ATA Chairman in 2013, and current company president Greg Brown. Brown said Watson was responsible for much of the company’s early success. “He always exemplified integrity, honesty, and tireless dedication to enhance the operations for B.R. Williams,” he said. “This included filling a driver’s seat whenever the need became necessary.” Watson touched many lives throughout his life. Those who knew him best say he never met a stranger and enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved the trucking business, his Honda Goldwing motorcycle, University of Alabama football, NASCAR, pontoon boating on the river, his old Ford truck and his dog Daisy. At 75, he even fulfilled a life-long dream of motorcycling up the West Coast from California to Canada and along the Ice Highway. He was preceded in death by his parents,
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Herman and Ellie Mae Watson; his first wife, Carol Tanner Watson; son, William Lee Watson; and brother, Herman Watson Jr. He is survived by his wife, Minnie L. Watson; son, Brain K. Watson, daughter-in-law, Sally Minshew Watson; and grandchildren, Will and Sarah Watson, of Greenville, S.C. Memorials can be made to the Presbyterian Children’s Home in Talladega or the Cerebral Palsy Center of East Central Alabama.
ATA Workers’ Comp Fund hires new loss control director The Alabama Trucking Association Workers’ Comp Fund has hired Don Anchors to head its loss control and safety department. Anchors assumes the position of Director of Loss Control & Safety, Don Anchors bringing with him more than 23 years of experience in loss control, marketing and underwriting. He holds a finance degree from Auburn University and maintains several professional designations. Anchors began his career with Liberty Mutual Insurance in 1991 in its loss prevention department where he served mid-to-
large market accounts with primary focus on workers’ compensation exposures. He spent 10 years there and has since made stops at WorkCare Southeast and Strategic Comp, Inc. where he improved and bolstered loss control programs for both operations. Fund Chief Operating Officer Don Boatright says Anchors will have an immediate impact on the ATA Comp Fund’s loss control programs. “I’ve known and worked with Don for about 10 years,” stated Boatright in a letter to Fund Members. “With his high degree of loss control expertise and lengthy experience, he will be an asset to the Fund.”
Alabama to receive $2 million from the feds to fix roadways Alabama will receive nearly $2 million in federal emergency funds to fix roadways damaged by severe storms and other weather-related events, the Department of Transportation recently announced. Nearly two dozen states will receive cash to fix roadways damaged by storms and other natural events. All total, DOT will dole out more than $333 million. The emergency funds from the Federal Highway Administration will go toward rebuilding bridges, key corridors and other
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transportation infrastructure. Colorado will receive the most aid — more than $130 million — to rebuild roads damaged by floods over the past two years. Washington will be given $35 million to fix state Route 530, a major road damaged by mudslides in March. Delaware will receive $33 million to help rebuild a pier that was damaged in May along Interstate 495. “These funds are part of our ongoing commitment to Americans all across the country to make sure that the damaged roads and bridges they depend on to get to work or deliver goods are restored as quickly as possible,” Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said Aug. 6. “Getting life back to normal in these areas is our top priority, and safe, functional transportation is at the heart of that,” added Gregory Nadeau, acting chief of the Federal Highway Administration.
State unemployed rate reaches 7 percent Alabama’s official unemployment rate for July 2014 was 7 percent, the first time it’s been that high since October 2012. But the number of jobs supported by the economy grew by more than 1 percent, the first time that’s happened since January.
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JP Transportation Safety Consulting hires former FMCSA agent Price Former Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration special agent investigator Kenny Price has joined JP Transportation Safety Consulting, LLC as a fleet safety consultant specializing in federal regulatory compliance, training and legal advisement. Price spent six years with the agency, working closely with state fleet owners and managers performing safety audits and other procedures. Prior to that, he served as a trooper sergeant with the Alabama Kenny Price Dept. of Public Safety’s Motor Carrier Safety Unit for 27 years. Company president and co-founder Paul Dillard says Price’s vast experience gives clients the best information and guidance possible to keep their transportation operations compliant and operating efficiently. “I am absolutely excited about joining JPTSC’s outstanding team of fleet safety consultants,” Price said. “I look forward to working with our clients old and new. I also look forward to sharing what I’ve learned from my years at FMCSA and Public Safety.” JP Transportation Safety Consulting offers more than 100 years of combined experience serving the shipping and transportation industry with regard to workplace safety and regulatory compliance. The Birmingham-based group provides comprehensive consulting services to companies with safety performance problems or those seeking to enhance existing programs and policies. It provides recommendations and guidance according to best safety practices. For more information, visit jptsc.com or contact Price at 256-282-3728. The government measures the strength of the job market in two ways. It contacts residents directly in their homes to ask about their employment status (called the household survey), and it collects information from businesses to see how many workers they em-
ploy (called the establishment survey). These numbers could tell different stories when, for example, someone that already had a job got an additional part-time position. In July, about 149,000 Alabamians that Continued on page 28
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ROUNDUP T RU C K I N G I N D U S T RY
wanted work could not find it and are thus unemployed, according to the Department of Labor’s household survey. That’s up by about 10,000 over the past year, which increased the unemployment rate from 6.5 percent a year ago to 7 percent last month. But while more Alabamians failed to find work, the numbers from businesses told a different story. Employers added nearly 20,000 jobs in July, according to the DOL, good for growth of 1 percent. Private-sector growth was even stronger, at nearly 1.7 percent, according to the latest report. Jobs numbers were especially positive with respect to Alabama’s construction industry, considering recent trends. In July, Alabama construction supported more than 82,000 jobs — the highest that number has been since December 2010. Professional and business services, another key industry, grew by about 1.5 percent over the past year. “An increase of nearly 20,000 jobs since last July is something that we are proud of,” Governor Robert Bentley said in a statement.
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IRS to allow TTINs The Internal Revenue Service has issued final regulations to the effect that those issuing information returns to taxpayers may use on those returns what IRS calls truncated taxpayer identification number (TTINs), in place of the taxpayers’ full tax ID numbers. Those full numbers are, for individuals, their Social Security numbers, and IRS has feared it might be abetting identity theft by requiring their appearance on so many documents. Interim regulations issued some time ago had allowed the use of TTINs on certain forms, such as the Forms 1099 that motor carriers issue to independent contractors. These new regulations, however, go farther, and allow their use on most payee forms, with a few exceptions. It should be noted, however, that on forms payors submit to the IRS itself, the full ID number of a payee must appear.
U.S. tax court rules on deductions The United States Tax Court has allowed some federal tax deductions for operating expenses claimed by an owner-operator, even though he had scant records to support them. For the year in question, the
taxpayer deducted $64,000 in expenses for his one truck, including fuel, maintenance, and other costs. The court believed the taxpayer’s testimony to the extent that he did in fact operate his truck during the year, and incurred expenses, but noted that he had no records at all to back them up. The court then cited Cohan v. Comm’r, 39 F.2d 540 (CA 2 1930) for the proposition that in such a case—that is, where the fact of business expenses has been established—the court may estimate, if there is some basis on which to do it. However, it also cautioned that any estimates must bear heavily against a taxpayer, lest there be “unguided largess.” The upshot was that the court allowed somewhat less than half the taxpayer’s deductions, and upheld the penalties applied by the Internal Revenue Service. Baker v. Comm’r, T.C. Memo 2014-122, decided June 18, 2014
IRS to allow HVUT credits and refunds The federal Internal Revenue Service has released a memorandum from the its Office of Chief Counsel to the effect that the owner of a vehicle that is turned in to be scrapped under a state vehicle replacement incentive program will be deemed to have
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sold the vehicle, and will therefore be eligible for a credit or refund of the federal heavy vehicle use tax paid on the vehicle for the remainder of the tax year. The memo appears to be directed primarily at California’s vehicle replacement program, but other states may have similar programs under which vehicles may qualify for this tax treatment. IRS made the ruling to eliminate perplexity over the statutory requirement that in order to receive a credit or refund, either the operator of a vehicle that has paid the HVUT in a given year must sell the vehicle or it must be destroyed. In a replacement program, however, the vehicle is not sold, per se, nor is it scrapped until well after it has left the taxpayer’s ownership.
FMCSA proposes to negotiate driver training rule The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is taking another swing at a driver training rule, this time suggesting negotiations to resolve details that sidelined an earlier proposal. At issue is the agency’s seven-year effort to come up with standards for entry-level driver training. A year ago the agency pulled its proposal because of disagreements over how it should work, even though there
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Trucking opportunities abound on state job boards According to Al.com, there were more than 53,000 total online job ads in Alabama in July, but that figure fell about 0.32 percent from June, the Alabama Department of Labor reported. Although the statewide joblessness rate in July climbed to 7 percent, the number of jobs supported by the economy grew by more than 1 percent. Help Wanted Online (HWOL) data from the state shows there were 165,476 unemployed workers, 53,321 total online job ads and 28,140 new online job ads in July. There were three unemployed workers for every online job ad posted. Heavy/tractor-trailer truck driver was the No. 1 most-wanted occupation with 4,096 job ads. Other in-demand careers include retail sales, insurance sales, registered nurses and maintenance and repair workers. was general agreement with the concept. Now the agency is proposing a negotiated rulemaking. It has hired a “convener,”
Richard Parker of the University of Connecticut’s School of Law, to see if agreement is possible among carriers, driver groups, trainers, state agencies, safety advocates and insurance companies. Parker will interview the interested parties and assess the possibility of agreement. The agency will use his report to determine whether or not to proceed with negotiations. If the agency decides to go forward, it will invite representatives of these interests to collaborate on a draft of a proposed rule. If they can do that, the draft would be posted for public comment. The negotiation will have to resolve differences over basic details such as whether training should be measured by hours or by performance. Other issues are how driver training schools should be accredited, if there should be a graduated licensing program and how the behind-the-wheel portion of the training would be conducted. In addition, the 2012 highway bill, MAP21, requires the agency to establish a training regime that addresses safety performance and hazmat operations, and it must certify that applicants and trainers meet federal standards. Comments on the negotiated rulemaking approach are due by September 18. Continued on page 30
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ROUNDUP T RU C K I N G I N D U S T RY
Distressed infrastructure costs Alabama motorists 3.1 billion
A recent report from TRIP, a Washington, DC-based transportation organization, Alabama roads and bridges that are deficient, congested or lack desirable safety features cost Alabama motorists $3.1 billion annually. The report states that increased investment in transportation improvements at the local, state and federal levels could relieve traffic congestion, improve road and bridge conditions, boost safety, and support longterm economic growth in Alabama. The study also found that 15 percent of the state’s major urban roads and highways are in poor condition, and nearly a quarter of Alabama’s bridges are structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. The state’s roads are becoming increasingly congested, with drivers wasting significant amounts of time and fuel each year. And Alabama’s rural non-interstate traffic fatality rate is nearly double the fatality rate on all other roads in the state. For instance driving on deficient roads costs Birmingham area drivers on average
30
$1,562 per year in the form of extra vehicle operating costs (VOC) as a result of driving on roads in need of repair, lost time and fuel due to congestion-related delays, and the cost of traffic crashes in which roadway features likely were a contributing factor. The TRIP report also calculated the cost to motorists of insufficient roads in Huntsville at $1,226 per motorist; Mobile $1,195; and Montgomery $1,218. There are safety concerns, too. A total of 23 percent of Alabama’s bridges show significant deterioration or do not meet modern design standards. Nine percent of Alabama’s bridges are structurally deficient, with significant deterioration to the bridge deck, supports or other major components. An additional 14 percent of the state’s bridges are functionally obsolete, which means they no longer meet modern design standards, often because of narrow lanes, inadequate clearances or poor alignment. Traffic crashes in Alabama claimed the lives of 4,435 people between 2008 and 2012. Alabama’s traffic fatality rate of 1.33 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles of travel is significantly higher than the national average of 1.13. The traffic fatality rate on Alabama’s non-Interstate rural roads in 2012 was 1.92 traffic fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles of travel, nearly dou-
ble the 0.99 traffic fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles of travel on all other roads and highways in the state. The efficiency of Alabama’s transportation system, particularly its highways, is critical to the health of the state’s economy. A 2007 analysis by the Federal Highway Administration found that every $1 billion invested in highway construction would support approximately 27,800 jobs. “The importance of a long-term sustainable highway construction program is critical to the future of Alabama’s continued economic health. The safety of the traveling public is just one part of the need for such a program,” said Billy Norrell, CEO of the Alabama Associated General Contractors. “As our state highways and bridges continue to be strained by increased traffic and wear and tear, there is no choice but to inject additional resources into the system. Current funding levels are restricting the department into more of a maintenance only organization, capable of less and less new capacity work. We are confident our elected officials will make the difficult but proper choices when it comes to the future of Alabama’s infrastructure.” Currently, the Federal surface transportation program is a critical source of funding in Alabama. From 2008 to 2012, the feder-
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al government provided $1.32 for road improvements in Alabama for every dollar the state paid in federal motor fees. Congress recently approved an eight-month extension of the federal surface transportation program, which will now run through May 31, 2015. The recent legislation will also transfer nearly $11 billion into the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) to preserve existing levels of highway and public transportation investment through the end of May 2015. The following projects would require significant federal funding to proceed prior to 2019: the construction of several new routes in Montgomery, Birmingham, Anniston and Auburn to relieve congestion and provide for future growth, widening portions of US-80 in Sumter and resurfacing a portion of I-10 in Mobile. Alabama Trucking Association president and CEO Frank Filgo said his group has advocated for an increase in the state fuel taxes for years. “In the two decades, I’ve been involved with this Association there have been all kinds of proposals to better fund and maintain Alabama roads and bridges, everything from a usage tax to public-private partnerships that would use tolls to fund construction and maintenance,” he said. “Raising the fuel tax is the best way to fairly fund our state’s aging infrastructure.”
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Boyd Bros. honors 3 million-mile driver Willie Brown Willie Brown, an over-the-road driver for Boyd Bros. Transportation recently reached 3 million accident-free miles. Brown, 61, began his trucking career with Boyd in 1990, after working in local coal mines for most of his adult life. While at Boyd he became a star employee, earning numerous safety awards and the fleet’s Driver of the Year distinction twice. Boyd officials recently honored Brown’s accomplishment with a luncheon at the fleet’s Birmingham, Ala. terminal. Brown was presented with numerous awards and Willie Brown, left, with ATA’s Safety Director Tim Frazier. gifts from various presenters and well-wishers, including Boyd CEO Gail Cooper, Tim Frazier from the Alabama Trucking Association and Kyle Stewart from Truckworx Kenworth. “I was just an old lamp head when I got into trucking,” joked Brown, referring to his years working in the coal industry. “I choose to work for Boyd because I believed it was the best company for me and my family. I’m proud to say I was right. Everyone here is committed to doing everything they can to improve the safety of the operation, and that’s something I respect. It’s how I want to handle my work as a truck driver. You can never take things for granted in trucking, and you must always do things the right way no matter the circumstances.” Cooper described how proud she is of drivers like Brown. “We have some the best drivers in the business,” she said. “They are truly the backbone of our industry, and I’m so happy for Willie, and his family. He really is one of the best.” Boyd officials also presented Brown with a check for $6,000 and a signed certificate of recognition from Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley.
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Drivewyze Offers Cost-Effective Solution to Vehicle Inspection Quandary
Many fleets that operate trucks with few if any maintenance issues are taking advantage of their good safety scores by using technology to get weigh station bypasses, said Brian Heath, Drivewyze president and CEO. The Drivewyze PreClear weigh station bypass service provides drivers with bypasses right on their mobile phones and tablets, or on in-cab devices. Unlike other bypass programs, no additional transponder is required. In the span of 18 months, the Drivewyze network of active locations has grown to 378 locations in 26 states. A map with all of the currently active weigh stations across the country is available on the Drivewyze web site: http://drivewyze.com/coveragemap/. What exactly is Drivewyze and how does it work? Heath offers some answers to those questions and others to provide a better look under the Drivewyze hood:
Q
How does the Drivewyze bypass application work? Who makes the decision whether I get a bypass and how is it determined?
A
Each state’s law enforcement agency selects pre-clearance screening rules on a site-by-site basis to determine whether a bypass is granted. As their primary screening rule, most states look at a carrier’s Inspection Selection
System (ISS) score, which is established by the U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under the CSA initiative. The FMCSA calculates the ISS score by measuring the carrier’s scores in the Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories or “BASICs” and compiling them into a single ISS score. The score operates on a 0 to 100 scale with lower scores reflecting a better safety record. The score changes over time based on the results of vehicle and driver log inspections, plus maintenance record inspections. States also frequently consider IFTA and proper license plate registration compliance as part of their screening rules. To learn how the Drivewyze app works, watch the short video posted on the Drivewyze web site: http://drivewyze.com/howit-works/
Q A
On which devices does Drivewyze work?
Drivewyze PreClear can be used on Android and iOS-based tablets or smartphones, and is integrated into PeopleNet Blu.2 and Tablet devices, as well as the Zonar 2020. This fall, Drivewyze will be available on the Rand McNally 760 fleet management device.
Q
If I sign up for the service on my own, whose authority and ISS score are used for determining bypasses for my truck?
A
If you’re a company driver operating a carrier-owned vehicle or an owner-operator who’s driving for a carrier under its USDOT number, the carrier’s authority and ISS score determines bypass rates. If you’re an owner-operator operating under your own U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number, your ISS score determines your bypass rate.
Q A
What kind of bypass rate could I expect with Drivewyze?
Bypass rates are based on carrier registration, tax compliance and, most importantly ISS safety score – and most carriers in the U.S. maintain good to excellent safety scores. Based on the national average for ISS scores, this means that provided registration and taxes are in order, most fleets and operators can expect to receive bypasses around 75 percent of the time. Barring a 2 percent random inspection rate, those with the strongest, hard-earned ISS scores can earn bypasses up to 98 percent of the time.
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Q A
How much does PreClear cost?
Q A
Why should I choose Drivewyze PreClear over other bypass services?
The subscription-based Drivewyze PreClear bypass service costs $15.75 per month, with fleet discounts available. Truck operators can start an optional 30-day free trial of the subscription-based Drivewyze PreClear weigh station bypass service. The 30day free trial allows Android and iOS users to see if it’s right for them before they subscribe.
With 378 locations in 26 states as of Aug. 1, 2014, Drivewyze offers more bypass opportunities for drivers than anyone else - saving drivers more time and money. Drivewyze doesn’t require a dedicated transponder. It works on equipment you already have, such as your smartphone, tablet, or from many in-cab ELDs.
Q
What if I used PreClear and another service to cover more states? How would the weigh station know which system to use?
A
We have designed Drivewyze to work together with transponder-based bypass
systems. To avoid driver distraction and ensure safety, Drivewyze will yield to your other bypass services in operation at that site. In these cases, drivers will see on-screen instructions to “Follow Transponder,” and follow whatever instructions it provides. For more information, visit the Drivewyze web site - http://drivewyze.com
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A LABAMA T RUCKER • 3 RD Q UARTER 2014
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Nashville, TN Sean Dickerson 800-600-0991 33
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“Trucking’s Voice in Alabama”
PO Box 242337 •
Montgomery, AL 36124-2337 •
Phone: (334)834-3983 •
Fax: (334)262-6504
Application For Membership DIVISION Motor Carriers: ❑ Domiciled In Alabama ❑ All other For-Hire ❑ Household Movers ❑ Private Carriers
Allied Industry: ❑ Local and State Suppliers ❑ Nat’l Concerns, small items ❑ 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. FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY CODE # _________________ Date_____________________
Freq_____________________
ACT ____________________
BC ____________________
Check # __________________
Exp Date__________________
ATU ____________________
DC ____________________
Dues Amt ________________
Nxt Bill Date _______________
MAG __________________
400 ____________________
MC ____________________
WCSIF __________________
GC ____________________
CONTACT SHEET __________
YR ____________________
WINFAX ________________
Mbr Class ________________
AL Sen___________________
Mbr Type _________________
AL Hse___________________
Dues Cat _________________
CG Dist __________________
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LTR/PLQ ________________
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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 and not over 20,000,000 and not over 25,000,000 and not over 30,000,000 and not over 35,000,000 and over 40,000,000
$24,999,999 29,999,999 34,999,999 39,999,999
Annual Dues $1,800 2,100 2,400 2,700 3,000
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
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 $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
Annual Dues $780 $300,000 900 400,000 1,200 500,000
Payment Schedule (Dues payable in advance) Below $500...................................................................Annually $500 - $1,200 ......................................................Semi-Annually
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. 36
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ATA
NEW MEMBERS & EVENTS
New Members (as of 9-12-2014) AM Hotshot Express LLC 8957 Three Notch Road Theodore, AL 36582 Phone (251) 666-7088 Ms. Diane Houston Baldwin & Lyons, Inc. 111 Congressional Blvd. Suite 500 Carmel, IN 46032 Phone (317) 452-7413 jsilvey@baldwinandlyons.com Mr. Jeffrey Silvey BTI Transportation Services Inc. P. O. Box 2468 Tuscaloose, AL 35403-2468 Phone (205) 242-6908 drouse6415@aol.com Mr. David Rouse Compton Transport, LLC 760 Compton Acres Drive Demopolis, AL 36732 Phone (334) 289-2031 mikecompton588@gmail.com Mr. Mike Compton
First Guard Insurance Co. 200 Nokomis Ave S. 4th Floor Venice, FL 34285 Phone (941) 485-6210 ed@1stguard.com Mr. Ed Campbell
J. Brandt Recognition 2816 W. Lancaster Ave Fort Worth, TX 76107 Phone (800) 435-5749 alicia.brandt@jbrandt.com Ms. Alicia Brandt
Highly Trusted Transport, Inc 321 Meridian Ridge Ct Tallahassee, FL 32312 Phone (850) 597-8148 highlytrusted78@gmail.com Mr. Zack Howard
Labor Pain 501 East Mann Ave Boaz, AL 35957 Phone (256) 298-2442 Mr. Jimmy H. Beck
Hill, Hill, Carter, Franco, Cole&Black P.C. P. O. Box 116 Montgomery, AL 36101 Phone (334) 834-7600 dwhenderson@hillhillcarter.com Mr. David W. Henderson
Contact Ford Boswell at fboswell@alabamatrucking.org or 877-277-TRUK (8785) For More Information A LABAMA T RUCKER • 3 RD Q UARTER 2014
Office Movers, Inc. P. O. Box 43468 Birmingham, AL 35243 Phone (205) 927-2222 Mr. Richard Mcbee Robertson Trucking 57 Hatley Detroit Rd Detroit, AL 35552 Phone (205) 273-4277 brent@rbuc.net Mr. Brent Robertson
Lights On, Inc 179 AL Hwy 223 Banks, AL 36005 Phone (770) 240-9987 dburnette.lightson@gmail.com Mr. Darryl Burnette
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.
MMT Logistics, LLC 1810 Avenue C Birmingham, AL 35218 Phone (205) 788-4000 Mr. Brian Barze
D V E R T I S I N G
I
N D E X
ADVERTISER
PG. NO.
PH. NO.
Pivotal LNG
17
(713) 300-5116
ATA WCSIF BC (334) 834-7911 The Baxter Agency 7 (800) 873-8494 Bell & Co. 26 (501) 753-9700 Great West Casualty Co. 28 (800) 228-8053 Greenbush Logistics 30 (877) 585-4749 Infiniti-i 34 (205) 585-3895 International Trucks IFC (800) 844-4102 Ira Phillips 29 (800) 673-6256 Johnson Locklin 34 (251) 947-3015 J.J. Keller 25 (888) 473-4638 ext. 7892 JP Transportation Safety Consulting 31 (205) 329-8183 Nextran Truck Center 3 (800) 292-8685 Palomar Insurance 18 (800) 489-0105 Regions Insurance 33 (800) 807-1412 Thompson Cat 40-41 (205) 849-4288 Truckworx Kenworth 13 (800) 444-6170 Turner & Hamrick 27 (888) 385-0186 WH Thomas Oil Co. 20-21 (205) 755-2610 Wallace State Hanceville 23 (256) 352-8126 W.W. Williams 19 (800) 365-3780
WEB ADDRESS www.pivotallng.com www.atacompfund.org www.baxteragency.com bellandcompany.net www.gwccnet.com www.greenbushlogistics.com Ahicks0604@bellsouth.net www.navistar.com www.iraphillips.com www.johnson-locklin.com www.jjkellermobile.com www.jptsc.com www.nextrancorp.com www.palomarins.com www.regionsinsurance.com www.thompsontractor.com www.truckworx.com www.turnerhamrick.com www.thomasoil.com www.wallacestate.edu www.wwwilliams.com 37
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2014 ATA Buyer’s Guide We make every effort to ensure this list is correct. For changes or corrections to your companyʼs listing, contact Jane Nixon at jnixon@alabamatrucking.org.
Caribou Insurance Agency, Inc. (205) 822-7577 www.caribouins.com
Alabama Trucking Assn.’s Buyer’s Guide lists those companies that have taking an active role in supportCottingham and Butler ing Alabama’s trucking industry by becoming members of the Association. We ask that each time you (563) 587-5521 plan a purchase that you consult this guide and give ATA members the opportunity to gain your business. www.cottinghambutler.com These companies proudly support your association and deserve your support, as well. ADVERTISING/PUBLISHING Randall-Reilly Business Media & Information (205) 349-2990 www.rrpub.com The Trucking Summit (917) 502-0139 www.truckingsummit.com
BUS SALES & SERVICE Southland International Trucks, Inc. (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com 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 CarrierWeb LLC (770) 289-8005 www.carrierweb.com J.J. Keller & Assoc., Inc. (920) 722-2848 www.jjkellerservices.com Omnitracs, Inc. (770) 232-9541 www.omnitracs.com PeopleNet (888) 346-3486 www.peoplenetonline.com Rand McNally (501) 835-1585 www.randmcnally.com SmartDrive Systems (858) 225-5550 www.smartdrive.net
DRIVER STAFFING TransForce, Inc. (205) 916-0259 www.transforce.com Transportation Support, Inc. (205) 833-5855 www.transportationsupport.com
EDUCATION & TRAINING J.J. Keller & Assoc., Inc. (920) 722-2848 www.jjkellerservices.com JP Transportation Safety Consulting, LLC (205) 329-8182 (205) 945-8550 www.jptsc.com Transportation Safety Services (251) 661-9700 www.transportationsafetyservices.com Trucking Partners, LLC (256) 737-8788 www.truckingpartners.com USA Driver-s, Inc. (205) 661-0712 www.usadrivers.com Vertical Alliance Group, Inc. (903) 792-3866 www.lmstrucking.com
ENGINE MANUFACTURERS Cummins Mid-South, LLC (901) 488-8033 www.cumminsmidsouth.com
Thermo King of B’ham-DothanMobile-Montgomery (205) 591-2424 www.midstatetk.com
Thompson/Caterpillar (205) 849-4365 www.thompsontractor.com
Thompson/Caterpillar (205) 849-4365 www.thompsontractor.com
EQUIPMENT LEASING H.E.C. Leasing, LLC (615) 471-9300 www.hecleasing.com
W.W. Williams (205) 252-9025 (334) 279-6083 www.wwwilliams.com
KLLM/Equipment Solutions LLC (205) 515-1478 www.kllm.com
ESTATE AND BUSINESS PLANNING Christian & Small LLP (205) 795-6588 www.csattorneys.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 Transport Enterprise Leasing LLC (423) 463-3390 www.transportenterpriseleasing.com
EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING BigBee Steel (256) 383-7322 www.bigbee.com
FINANCIAL SERVICES BancorpSouth Equipment Finance (205) 422-7111 www.bxsequipmentfinance.com Comdata 615-376-6917 www.comdata.com Electronic Funds Source LLC (615) 777-4619 www.efsllc.com Freight Capital (800) 775-0391 www.freightcapital.com GE Capital (770) 960-6307 www.ge.com
Eaton Corp./Roadranger Field Marketing (334) 398-1410 People’s Capital & Leasing Corp. www.roadranger.com (205) 856-9354 www.peoples.com Phillips Industries (706) 202-5348 People’s United Equipment www.phillipsind.com Finance Corp. (205) 664-9374 EQUIPMENT PARTS/ACCESSORIES www.financialfederal.com Dana (734) 516-8032 PNC Financial Services Group www.dana.com (251) 441-7286 www.pnc.com Delco Remy (205) 515-7330 Renasant Bank (334) 301-5955 Dothan Tarpaulin Products, Inc. www.renasantbank.com (800) 844-8277 www.dothantarp.com ServisFirst Bank (205) 949-3433 Imperial Supplies LLC www.servisfirstbank.com (800) 558-2808 www.imperialsupplies.com Wells Fargo Equipment Finance (314) 374-2165 Kinedyne Corp. www.wellsfargo.com (334) 365-2919 INSURANCE www.kinedyne.com American Claims Service, Inc. (205) 669-1177 Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems 334/798-0080 Aon Risk Solutions www.arvinmeritor.com (501) 374-9300 www.aon.com Metro Trailer Repair Co., Inc. (205) 323-2877 Aronov Insurance, Inc. www.metrotrailer.net (205) 414-9575 www.aronovinsurance.com NAPA Auto Parts (205) 510-2900 The Baxter Agency (334) 678-5900 Paccar Parts/Kenworth www.baxteragency.com (205) 679-7925 www.kenworth.com BB & T Insurance Services (912) 201-4706 Southern Truck & Equipment, Inc. (251) 653-4716 Benton & Parker Insurance Services www.southerntruck.net (770) 536-8340 www.bentonandparker.com Star Truck Parts (205) 324-4681
Farris Evans Insurance Agency, Inc. (901) 274-5424 www.farrisevans.com First Guard Insurance Company (941) 485-6210 www.1stguard.com Great West Casualty Co. (865) 670-6573 www.gwccnet.com Hudgens Insurance, Inc. (334) 289-2695
MEDICAL/DRUG & ALCOHOL SERVICES Alabama Specialty Clinic (256) 736-1460 www.ascoccupationalhealth.com Carlisle Medical, Inc. (251) 344-7988 www.carlislemedical.com Employers Drug Program Mgmt., Inc. (205) 326-3100 www.edpm.com ErgoScience, Inc. (205) 879-6447 www.ergoscience.com J.J. Keller & Assoc., Inc. (920) 722-2848 www.jjkellerservices.com
Interstate Motor Carriers/Capacity Agency, LLC (251) 490-3190
Safety First-Div. of Behavioral Health Systems (205) 443-5450 www.bhs-inc.com
Johnson-Locklin & Associates (205) 980-8008 www.johnson-locklin.com
PETROLEUM PRODUCTS Blu (Transfuels LLC) (251) 421-5757 www.blulng.com
J.R. Prewitt & Associates, Inc. (205) 397-5118 www.jrprewitt.com
Clean Energy Fuels (423) 341-1779
The Kennion Group, Inc. (205) 969-1155 www.kennion.com
Corridor Clean Fuels, LLC (256) 894-0098
Liberty Mutual Group (804) 380-5169 www.libertymutual,com Liberty Truck Insurance (205) 352-2598 Lyon Fry Cadden Insurance Agency, Inc. (251) 473-4600 www.lyonfrycaden.com
Davison Fuels & Oil (251) 544-4511 GAIN Clean Fuel – Div. of US Oil (804) 291-7892 www.gainfuel.com Green Buffalo Fuel (716) 768-0611 Jack Green Oil Co., Inc. (256) 831-1038
Marvin Johnson & Associates, Inc. (812) 372-0841 www.mjai.com
Kimbro Oil Company (615) 320-7484 www.kimbrooil.com
McGriff, Siebels & Williams, Inc. (205) 252-9871 www.mcgriff.com
Major Oil Company, Inc. (334) 263-9070 www.unitedfoodandfuel.com
Joe Morten & Sons, Inc. (865) 392-3800 www.joemorten.com
Pivotal LNG (404) 783-3550 www.pivotallng.com
S. S. Nesbitt (205) 262-2620 www.ssnesbitt.com
Slidell Oil (334) 262-7301 www.slidelloil.com
Palomar Insurance Corp. (334) 270-0105 www.palomarinsurance.com
The McPherson Companies, Inc. (888) 802-7500 www.mcphersonoil.com
Regions Insurance, Inc. (501) 661-4880 www.regions.com
Trillium CNG (678) 358-1365 www.trilliumcng.com
Regions Insurance (334) 808-9441 www.regionsinsurance.com
W.H. Thomas Oil Co., Inc. (205) 755-2610 www.whthomasoil.com
Reliance Partners, Inc. (877) 668-1704 www.reliancepartners.com
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Accounting Firms: Aldridge, Borden & Co. (334) 834-6640 www.aldridgeborden.com
Trans Con Assurance, LTD (205) 978-7070 Turner & Hamrick L.L.C. (334) 566-7665 www.turnerhamrick.com
Katz, Sapper & Miller, LLP (317) 580-2068 www.ksmcpa.com
York Risk Services Group (205) 581-9283 www.yorkrsg.com
Attorneys: Adams and Reese LLP (205) 250-5091 www.adamsandreese.com
Zurich (704) 506-1951 www.zurichna.com/zdu
Austill, Lewis & Pipkin, P.C. (205) 870-3767 www.maplaw.com
ATA_3Q14_11751 ATA 9/17/14 4:20 PM Page 39
(as of 09/10/2014) 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. (205) 822-2006 www.carrallison.com Christian & Small, LLP (205) 795-6588 www.csattorneys.com DeLashmet & Marchand, P.C. (251) 433-1577 www.delmar-law.com Ferguson, Frost & Dodson, LLP (205) 879-8722 www.ffdlaw.com Fisher & Phillips, LLP (404) 231-1400 www.laborlawyers.com Friedman, Dazzio, Zulanas & Bowling, P.C. (205) 278-7000 www.friedman-lawyers.com
George L. Edwards & Associates (334) 745-5166
Childersburg Truck Service, Inc. (256) 378-3101 www.childersburg-truck.com
Fontaine Fifth Wheel NA (205) 421-4300 www.fifthwheel.com
Coffman International Trucks (334) 794-4111 www.coffmaninternationaltrucks.com
Great Dane Trailers (205) 324-3491 www.greatdanetrailers.com
J.J. Keller & Assoc., Inc. (920) 722-2848 www.jjkellerservices.com
Eufaula Trucking Co., Inc. (334) 687-0391
Gulf City Body & Trailer Works, Inc. (251) 438-5521 www.gulfcity.com
Jeffers Trucking, Inc. (205) 808-1112
H & M Trailer Repair, Inc. (334) 262-0692
JP Transportation Safety Consulting, LLC (205) 329-8182 (205) 329-8183 www.jptsc.com
Lazzari Truck Repair, Inc. (251) 626-5121 www.lazzaritruckrepair.com
Help, Inc. Provider of PrePass (931) 520-7170 www.prepass.com
McLeod Software (205) 823-5100 www.mcleodsoftware.com Motor Carrier Safety Consulting (205) 871-4455 Power South Energy Cooperative (334) 427-3207 www.powersouth.com Preferred Risk Services (334) 836-0358 www.premployerinc.com
Hand Arendall LLC (251) 432-5511 www.handarendall.com
Spectrum Environmental Services, Inc. (205) 664-2000 www.specenviro.com
Hill, Hill, Carter, Franco, Cole & Black, P.C. (334) 834-7600 www.hillhillcarter.com
Tax2290.com/ThinkTrade Inc. (866) 245-3918 www.tax2290.com
James M. Sizemore, Jr. (256) 409-1985
TMW Systems, Inc. (216) 831-6606 www.tmwsystems.com
McDowell Knight Roedder & Sledge, LLC (251) 432-5300 www.mcdowellknight.com Porterfield, Harper, Mills,Motlow & Ireland PA (205) 980-5000 www.phm-law.com
Todd & Sons (334) 794-0111 Transportation and Logistical Services, Inc (205) 226-5500 www.tlsincorp.com Transportation Billing Solutions, LLC (205) 788-4000
Starnes Davis Florie LLP (205) 868-6000 www.starneslaw.com
Transportation Compliance Services, USA (228) 872-7160 Webster, Henry, Lyons, White, Bradwell www.dottrucksafety.com & Black, P.C. Transportation Safety Services (334) 264-9472 (251) 661-9700 www.websterhenry.com www.transportationsafetyservices.com Zieman, Speegle, Jackson & TripPak SERVICES & ACS Advertising Hoffman LLC (801) 349-2433 (251) 694-1700 www.acsexpeditedsolutions.com www.ziemanspeegle.com
Metro Trailer Repair Co., Inc. (205) 323-2877 www.metrotrailer.net Rowe Management Corp. (205) 486-9235 www.rowemachinery.com Star Leasing Co. (205) 763-1280 www.starleasing.com Thompson/Caterpillar (205) 849-4365 www.thompsontractor.com W.W. Williams (205) 252-9025 (334) 279-6083 www.wwwilliams.com
TIRE DEALERS & MANUFACTURERS Best One Tire & Service (615) 207-9079 www.bestonetire.com Bridgestone Commercial Solutions (770) 317-5777 www.trucktires.com Butler Industrial Tire Center, Inc. (334) 376-0178 Columbus Tire Co., Inc. (706) 321-8133 www.columbustireco.com McGriff Tire Co. (256) 739-0710 www.mcgrifftire.com McGriff Treading Co., Inc. (256) 734-4298 www.mcgriffindustries.com Michelin North America (864) 201-6177 www.michelintruck.com Snider Fleet Solutions (404) 361-0130 www.snidertire.com
Other Services: Ahern & Associates LTD (602) 242-1030 www.ahern-LTD.com
Trucking Partners, LLC (256) 737-8788 www.truckingpartners.com
Alaplex Management, Inc./APLS, LLC (205) 871-0230
Real Estate: Mary Lou’s Team RE/MAX, Inc. (205) 566-5911 www.marylousteam.com
Wilks Tire & Battery Service, Inc. (256) 878-0211 www.wilkstire.com
Repairs: Big Moe Spring & Alignment of B’ham, Inc. (205) 780-0290
Yokohama Tire Corp. (317) 385-2611 www.yokohamatire.com
C & C Graphics (256) 727-5049
Birmingham Frame & Alignment, LLC (205) 322-4844 birminghamframeandalignment.com
TRAILER DEALERS/ MANUFACTURERS C & C Trailers, Inc. (334) 897-2202
Delta Distributors, LLC (334) 222-3671
Carl Carson Truck Center, Inc. (205) 592-9966 www.carlcarson.com
Dorsey Trailer (334) 897-2525 www.dorseytrailer.net
Carrier Transicold South (404) 968-3130 www.ctsouth.com
Empire Truck Sales, LLC (601) 939-1000 www.empiretruck.com
Carroll Truck Repair, Inc. (205) 983-3375
Equipment Logistics, Inc. (256) 739-9280
BancorpSouth Insurance Services (334) 272-1200 www.bxsi.com BTI Transportation Services, Inc. (205) 242-6908
Direct Chassislink (704) 571-5408 www.chassislink.com Drivewyze (780) 461-3355 www.drivewyze.com
Tire Centers, LLC (205) 252-3150 www.tirecenters.com
Gulf Coast Truck & Equipment Co. (251) 476-2744 www.gulfcoasttruck.com R C Trailer Sales & Service Co., Inc. (205) 680-0924 www.rctrailersales.net Southland International Trucks, Inc. (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com Star Leasing Co. (205) 763-1280 www.starleasing.com Tennessee Valley Recycling LLC (256) 353-6351 www.tvrllc.com Transport Trailer Center (334) 299-3573 www.transporttc.com Utility Trailer Sales of Alabama LLC (334) 794-7345 www.utilityalabama.com
TRUCK DEALERS, MANUFACTURERS Action Truck Center (334) 794-8505 www.actiontruckcenter.com Birmingham Freightliner (205) 322-6695 www.birminghamfreightliner.com Capital Volvo Truck & Trailer (334) 262-8856 www.capitalvolvo.com Coffman International Trucks (334) 794-4111 www.coffmaninternationaltrucks.com
Peterbilt of Montgomery & Birmingham LLC (800) 264-4555 www.peterbilttruckcenters.com Rush Truck Center-Mobile (251) 459-7300 www.rushofmobile.com Southland International Trucks, Inc. (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com Taylor & Martin, Inc. (662) 262-4613 www.taylorandmartin.com Thompson/Caterpillar (205) 849-4365 www.thompsontractor.com Truckworx Kenworth - Birmingham (205) 326-6170 www.TRUCKWORX.com Truckworx Kenworth – Dothan (334) 712-4900 www.TRUCKWORX.com Truckworx Kenworth – Montgomery (334) 263-3101 www.TRUCKWORX.com Truckworx Kenworth – Mobile (251) 957-4000 www.TRUCKWORX.com Truckworx Kenworth – Huntsville (256) 308-0162 www.TRUCKWORX.com Truckworx Kenworth – Thomasville (334) 636-4380 www.TRUCKWORX.com Truckworx Kenworth – Tuscaloosa (205) 752-2886 www.TRUCKWORX.com Volvo Trucks North America (336) 393-2975 www.volvotrucks.volvo.com Ward International Trucks, LLC (251) 433-5616 www.wardintltrucks.com
Daimler Trucks NA LLC (404) 368-6860 www.freightlinertrucks.com
TRUCK & EQUIPMENT AUCTIONEERS Taylor & Martin, Inc. (662) 262-4613 www.taylorandmartin.com
Empire Truck Sales, LLC (601) 939-1000 www.empiretruck.com
TRUCKSTOPS Love’s Travel Stops, Inc. (405) 202-4451 www.loves.com
Fleetco, Inc. (615) 256-0600 www.fleetco.net
Oasis Travel Center, LLC (251) 960-1148
Four Star Freightliner (334) 263-1085 (Montgomery) www.fourstarfreightliner.com
Pilot Flying J Centers (865) 207-3219 www.pilotflyingj.com
Long Lewis Western Star (205) 428-6241 www.longlewistrucks.com
TravelCenters of America/Petro Shopping Centers (404) 231-4142 www.tatravelcenters.com
Mack Trucks, Inc. (678) 201-4770 www.macktrucks.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 Peterbilt Motors Co. (615) 208-1800 www.peterbilt.com
VEHICLE LEASING Southland International Trucks, Inc. (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com Ward International Trucks, LLC (251) 433-5616 www.wardintltrucks.com
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