2020 OMC Q4 by Oklahoma Motor Carrier

2021 1st Quarter oktrucking.org

Winter Issue Volume 30

FALL CLAY SHOOT

CARRIER SPOTLIGHT: LuGreg Trucking LLC

FALL GOLF CLASSIC

ALLIED INDUSTRY: EROAD, Inc.

2020 4th Quarter | Fall Issue Oklahoma Trucking Association 3909 North Lindsay Avenue Oklahoma City, OK, 73105 (405) 525-9488 www.oktrucking.org

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The Oklahoma Motor Carrier (OMC) is published after each quarter recapping current national, state and membership issues. Office of publication, Southwestern Stationary, OKC, OK. Bulk Rate postage paid at OKC, OK. Please address all correspondance to 3909 N. Lindsay Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73105.

FROM THE CEO

CHAIRMAN’S CORNER

NATIONAL NEWS

INDUSTRY & FEDERAL NEWS

STATE NEWS

CARRIER SPOTLIGHT – LUGREG TRUCKING, LLC

SAFETY ZONE

FALL GOLF CLASSIC

FALL CLAY SHOOT

ALLIED INDUSTRY – EROAD, INC.

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

GEARING UP FOR THE FUTURE

PLANS FOR A NEW TULSA DEALERSHIP In the meantime, Bruckner’s of Tulsa East has moved to the Tulsa West location. Greater Uptime Support

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ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP ASSOCIATION MEET THE STAFF

ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairman of Board | Adam Dye Southwest Trailers & Equipment

CEO | Jim Newport (P) 405.525.9488 x3 jimnewport@oktrucking.org Director of Events | Rebecca Chappell (P) 405.525.9488 x1 rebeccachappell@oktrucking.org

THANK YOU SPONSORS Throughout the year the OTA turns to our partners to work toward successful events, programs and operations! We are thankful for each of our sponsors and would like to highlight our top donors. Without each of our members and investors the OTA would not be able to achieve its mission!

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

FROM THE CEO

The fourth quarter of 2020 will end a year that a lot of folks will not be sorry to see go. Early in the year, your OTA scored victories at the state capitol. We defeated a bill mandating side guard rails that would have only applied to Oklahoma truckers and would have cost them millions of dollars. While helping our partners at Trucker’s Against Trafficking (TAT), we passed a bill to require CDL instruction to include a component of anti-human traffic education. We also help streamline trucking companies annual truck registrations by creating the ability to prorate and register all CMV vehicles in the same month rather than doing several each and every month. This can help save time and money in the back office. March introduced COVID-19 to all of us. The physical and emotional toll from the pandemic as well as the strain of the financial upheaval in the economy has been challenging for everyone. In the spring, the OTA made our importance known to the Governor by ensuring trucking was essential and needed to operate with fewer encumbrances. We made it known a one size health policy did not fit everyone. Early mandates of two weeks of quarantine when crossing state lines could not work for trucking and had to be explained. The same went for restrictions put on restaurants that temporarily closed truck stop eateries, restroom, and shower facilities. Rank and file Oklahomans realized trucking’s importance when their bare shelves were replenished after panicked shoppers had emptied them. In the summer and early fall, we were back in front of legislators pitching the need for lawmakers to throw out the 1.25% tax they placed on CMV trailers a few years ago. It has sent Oklahoma tax dollars to other states by pushing trailer sales and registrations into states who do not have this exorbitant fee. We have been assured the issue will be brought up next session. Be ready to tell your legislators to vote in favor of correcting this harmful tax. It has helped no one and hurt everyone. We will also push next year for lawsuit reforms and the addition of more Third Party CDL examiners to help more qualified drivers enter trucking careers. This is also a good place to remind you of the importance of committing any dollar amount to your OK TruckPAC. Whether you contribute once annually or monthly, those dollars will go to financially supporting pro-trucking legislators. You and the OTA have mattered greatly in 2020. Because of your support, the Oklahoma Trucking Association is strong. Our membership remains stable and we have seen our members engaged in positive ways more than ever. Our Technology & Maintenance Council and our OK Safety & Security Council continue to do a tremendous job for OTA’s members. This December, millions of Americans will watch the Christmas movie classic “It’s a Wonderful Life.” For those who might not have seen it, they should. There are many important life lessons there to be appreciated. The central character in the movie, George Bailey gets the chance to see what life would have been like if he had never been born. Turns out, the world would have been much worse off without him. To him his life appeared routine and boring, but his seemingly ordinary contributions significantly improved the lives of so many around him. The same could be said for you and the importance of trucking. While you are important and literally keep America moving, know your OTA is supporting the trucking industry every mile.

Jim Newport CEO/President Oklahoma Trucking Association

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

CHAIRMAN’S CORNER Hello friends and Members of OTA, I hope everyone is staying healthy and doing their part to put the COVID-19 pandemic completely behind us. The past year has certainly tested us in a multitude of ways. The trucking industry however, responded in a way like it always does. It is our industry’s “can do” attitude that helped gain us a lot of respect from the public. We have grown accustomed to saying: “if you use it, consume it, or wear it – a truck brought it!” Never has that statement been more felt and appreciated than during the pandemic. I am proud of the way many of you have transitioned your business in response! As we move into 2021 there are many things to be optimistic about. Vaccines will soon be available to citizens that choose to take them. Proudly some members of OTA have had key roles in distributing the vaccine while keeping them at the extremely cold temperatures they require. My hope is that truck drivers and other essential logistics personnel will be included in those first rounds of vaccinations. ATA Executive Vice President for Advocacy Bill Sullivan said recently in a letter, “As the trucking industry is called upon to deliver vaccines across the country, it is imperative that truck drivers have prioritized access to the vaccine to minimize the potential for supply chain delays and disruptions,” he said. “Our nation’s efforts to successfully confront the COVID-19 pandemic depends on the resilience and integrity of the transportation network. As we saw at the outset of the pandemic, when supply chains are disrupted, consequences are fast to follow.” This once again reiterates how vital trucking truly is to our state and our nation. The OTA Board of Directors has continued to meet quarterly via Zoom, and we have made the decision to transition our MidWinter Conference into a virtual event for Wednesday, March 3rd. Unfortunately, other upcoming events may have to be altered this year as well. We will continue to monitor the situation to keep all of you up to date. I hope to see you all in person again real soon! Finally, as the “Voice of Trucking” in Oklahoma and at the State Capitol I want everyone to consider making contributions to our OK TruckPAC or our Legislative Success Fund (LSF). We will soon be sending out these donation forms. Please consider sending a donation in personally (OK TruckPAC) or by having your company send one in (LSF). Our industry and voice benefit greatly when we have a healthy Political Action Committee. Thousands of bills will be filed in 2021 and we want to ensure that they promote and benefit our trucking industry. We can align our values with legislators who are supportive and friendly to trucking. Please consider a contribution, no matter the size! I appreciate all of you for your support and participation with OTA despite a tough year. Better days are just ahead – let’s keep on trucking! Many thanks to all of you, Adam Dye

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

NATIONAL NEWS

AMERICA’S TRUCKING INDUSTRY ANSWERED THE CALL IN 2020, SAYS ATA PRESIDENT October 26 | ATA | Sean McNally

Arlington, Virginia – American Trucking of who voters elect next week,” he said. Associations President and CEO Chris Spear Success, Spear said, depends on funding that addressed the federation’s 2020 Management “cannot and will not be done via truck-only tolls,” Conference, highlighting the industry’s response emphasizing the paramount importance of ATA’s suit to the COVID-19 pandemic and detailing ATA’s against Rhode Island to block the state’s truck-only successful efforts to keep trucks moving throughout toll scheme. the national crisis. Spear also said expanding the industry’s workforce “While others in DC panicked, the ATA led, remains a top priority. This includes continued support giving direction and certainty to our members when for the Drive SAFE Act and the FMCSA pilot program it mattered most,” Spear for drivers under the age said in his annual State of “Together, we inspire others. Together, we will of 21, but also a new focus the Industry address, citing on expanded outreach to win and grow. And we’ll always answer the ATA’s successful efforts in call when our country needs us most. Trucking minority communities. securing federal “essential” “2020 opened our isn’t just the backbone of our economy – it’s the status for carriers and eyes to the importance of heartbeat of this nation.” keeping facilities open for diversity, and the trucking ATA President and CEO Chris Spear industry is no exception. To drivers—both of which were critical to maintaining the that end, ATA established flow of interstate commerce while the county locked a diversity working group in direct support of the down. Workforce Development Policy Committee,” he said. “Our combined efforts have helped put America “This group will shine a brighter light on our efforts on a path to full recovery,” he said. to expand urban hiring, including people of color Spear said the challenges of 2020 have served and women; and, look at initiatives that increase the to strengthen the ATA Federation, calling it “battlenumber of minorities in our executive ranks, including hardened” as it looks to tackle a number of priority partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and issues in the consequential year ahead. Among Universities.” them, he said ATA will continue pursuing tort and In closing, Spear said because of the the industry’s legal reform, addressing the shortage of drivers and response to 2020’s challenges, it is “no surprise that technicians and fighting for long-term funding for our America has awakened to the trucking industry.” national infrastructure. “Together, we inspire others. Together, we will “Our efforts this year on infrastructure win and grow. And we’ll always answer the call when produced a comprehensive bill in the House of our country needs us most. Trucking isn’t just the Representatives--movement that paves way for backbone of our economy – it’s the heartbeat of this passing comprehensive reform next year, regardless nation,” he said. Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

INDUSTRY AND FEDERAL NEWS DRIVER CONCERNS, INSURANCE TOP ATRI’S ANNUAL LIST OF TOP TRUCKING INDUSTRY ISSUES October 27 | NATMI

rlington, Virginia – The American Transportation Research Institute, the trucking industry’s not-for-profit research organization, released its 16th Top Industry Issues report, which identifies a number of the industry’s key concerns including the driver shortage, truck parking, driver compensation and retention and for the first time since 2005, insurance costs. “For a number of reasons, 2020 has been a tremendously challenging one for our industry and our country, but as ATRI’s survey lays out, there are a number of issues we must address in addition to the ones put in front of us by this pandemic,” said ATA Chairman Randy Guillot, president and CEO of Southeastern Motor Freight and Triple G Express Inc. “From finding and keeping qualified drivers to the increased costs of insurance and burdens imposed on our industry by unwarranted lawsuits, ATRI has identified the issues our industry cares most about and outlines plans for how we can solve them.” For the fourth year in a row, the driver shortage was the top industry issue overall, as well as topping the motor carrier list of concerns, highlighting the challenges fleets face in recruiting new talent and keeping their current drivers. In fact, driver retention was carriers’ number two issue, and sixth on the combined list. Among the 1,000+ truck drivers who responded to the survey, truck parking, driver compensation and detention issues were their top concerns. In all, ATRI received responses from 3,122 truck drivers, motor carriers, and other industry stakeholders – an all-time record for the 16-year-old survey.

“Having such a robust sample gives us a very accurate picture of what issues are of most concern to the trucking industry,” said ATRI President and COO Rebecca Brewster. “With this information, the industry can best target its resources to address trucking’s concerns.” This year, for the first time since 2005, insurance cost and availability appeared in the top concerns – hitting fifth in the combined top 10 and fourth in the carrier concern list. In addition, tort reform appeared in the survey’s top 10 for the first time since 2011 – hitting seventh in the combined list and fifth in the carrier list. “The impacts of litigation and growth of nuclear verdicts in the trucking industry was really apparent in this year’s list of concerns,” Brewster said. “Earlier this year, ATRI quantified the growth in nuclear verdicts in the trucking industry, but even without that critical research, the fact that tort reform and insurance issues have resurfaced in the survey are a clear sign the industry is being impacted by rising costs related to litigation and insurance.” The complete results of the annual survey were released as part of 2020 American Trucking Associations’ Management Conference and Exhibition. The full report can be found at ATRI’s website – https://truckingresearch.org/2020/10/27/driver-concernsinsurance-top-atris-annual-list-of-top-trucking-industry-issues/ ATRI is the trucking industry’s 501(c)(3) not-for-profit research organization. It is engaged in critical research relating to freight transportation’s essential role in maintaining a safe, secure and efficient transportation system.

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

INDUSTRY AND FEDERAL NEWS

ATRI’S NEWEST OPERATIONAL COSTS OF TRUCKING DETAILS DECREASES IN INDUSTRY COSTS November 24 | ATRI

Arlington, VA – The American Transportation Research Institute released the findings of its 2020 update to “An Analysis of the Operational Costs of Trucking.” Using detailed financial data provided directly by motor carriers of all sectors and f leet sizes, this “Ops Cost” research annually documents and analyzes detailed trucking costs from 2008 through 2019. ATRI’s analysis provides industry stakeholders with an essential benchmarking tool, and government agencies with input on industry finances necessary for comprehensive transportation planning and infrastructure improvement analyses. ATRI’s newest 2020 Ops Cost report documents the slowdown of freight which occurred in the second half of 2019. The economic softening, combined with a number of independent factors including lower fuel prices, decreased the marginal cost of trucking. The average marginal cost per mile incurred by motor carriers in 2019 decreased 9.3 percent to $1.65. The line-item costs for almost every major line item experienced some level of decrease. In comparison to the last freight softening, which took place in 2016, marginal costs were still 6 cents higher, indicating the persistence of generally higher costs. Combined driver wage and benefits decreased slightly in 2019 – from 77.6 cents per mile in 2018 to 69.3 cents per mile – a counterintuitive decrease

given the driver shortage. However, bonuses for drivers universally increased, with retention bonuses showing increases of over 80 percent. While the cost per mile for total driver compensation fell, carriers are clearly addressing the driver shortage through other mechanisms. ATRI’s 2020 report includes a targeted analysis on “Driving the Trucking Industry: Small Carrier Spotlight,” which compares f leets of 100 or fewer trucks to f leets with greater than 100 trucks. “Given the chaos and volatility of freight markets these days, it is more critical than ever that trucking f leets closely monitor their cost centers,” said Brandon Knight, Principal of Transportation for CliftonLarsonAllen LLP. “ATRI’s Operational Costs report is an important benchmarking tool for f leets of all sizes and sectors.” Since its original publication in 2008, ATRI has received over 20,000 requests for the Operational Costs reports. A copy of this report is available online at: https://truckingresearch.org/2020/11/24/atrisnewest-operational-costs-of-trucking-detailsdecreases-in-industry-costs/ ATRI is the trucking industry’s 501(c)(3) not-forprofit research organization. It is engaged in critical research relating to freight transportation’s essential role in maintaining a safe, secure and efficient transportation system. Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

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INDUSTRY AND FEDERAL NEWS

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TAKES ACTION TO ASSIST AMERICA’S TRUCKERS IN THE EFFICIENT AND SAFE DISTRIBUTION OF COVID-19 VACCINES December 3 | FMCSA

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued an extended and expanded national emergency declaration to provide hours-of-service regulatory relief to commercial vehicle drivers transporting vaccines and emergency relief in response to the nationwide coronavirus (COVID-19) public health emergency. “America’s truck drivers have been heroes in keeping this nation’s supply chains open and are now on the front lines of this historic effort to safely deliver the COVID-19 vaccine,” said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao. “Under Secretary Chao’s leadership, FMCSA is helping lead the way to allow for an efficient and effective distribution of the first COVID-19 vaccines. The Agency is continuing to provide additional regulatory relief to our nation’s truckers to get critically important medical supplies, food, and household goods to Americans in need. We will continue to support them and help protect the health and safety of the American people,” said FMCSA Deputy Administrator Wiley Deck. FMCSA’s expanded and extended declaration provides for regulatory relief for commercial motor vehicle operations providing direct assistance supporting emergency relief efforts intended to meet immediate needs for: • Vaccines, constituent products, and medical supplies and equipment including ancillary supplies/kits for the administration of vaccines, related to the prevention of COVID-19. • Medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis, and treatment of COVID-19.

•

Supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation, and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19 such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap, and disinfectants. • Livestock and livestock feed. • Food, paper products, and other groceries for emergency restocking of distribution centers or stores. The declaration stipulates that direct assistance does not include routine commercial deliveries, including mixed loads with a nominal quantity of qualifying emergency relief added to obtain the benefits of the emergency declaration. To ensure continued safety on the nation’s roadways, the emergency declaration stipulates that when a driver is moving from emergency relief efforts to normal operations, the driver must receive a minimum of 10 hours off duty if the total time a driver operates conducting emergency relief efforts, or a combination of emergency relief and normal operations, equals 14 hours. The declaration has been extended to February 28, 2021. In response to the COVID-19 public health emergency, FMCSA has taken unprecedented action to support the nation’s motor carrier industry and protect America’s supply chains—including the first ever hours of service national emergency declaration, actions to allow drivers to still get access to commercial driver’s licenses and permits, assistance in the distribution of over 3 million protective face coverings, and efforts to ensure rest stops and truck parking remain open. A full listing of FMCSA’s emergency actions can be found at: www.fmcsa.dot.gov/COVID-19 Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

STATE NEWS ZOOMING INTO A NEW YEAR AND A NEW $6 BILLION HIGHWAY PLAN; COMMISSION APPROVES EIGHT-YEAR CONSTRUCTION WORK PLAN December 7, 2020 | Oklahoma Department of Transportation

he new year will ring in a new momentum for transportation in Oklahoma, with more than 1,300 critically-needed highway construction and safety projects lined out for the next eight years. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation is resolute in continuing to be a Top Ten state for good highway bridge conditions, while still facing challenges of the ongoing global pandemic.

recognizing that a good transportation infrastructure is a critical component in driving Oklahoma’s economy,” Oklahoma Secretary of Transportation and ODOT Executive Director Tim Gatz said. “We looked for innovative ways to keep our plans fiscally responsible and progressing with the focus on maintaining good bridges and improving pavement conditions in our state.”

The Oklahoma Transportation Commission set wheels in motion on Monday, Dec. 7 by approving the agency’s Eight-year Construction Work Plan for Federal Fiscal Years 2021-2028, totaling just over $6 billion in projects. This new update takes into account an upcoming reduction in state funding which was done through previous legislative action to help balance the state budget and project schedules have been adjusted accordingly.

Since 2003, the Eight-year Plan has provided a transparent view for the public about planned highway projects and is updated annually to balance numerous factors including conservative projections for state and federal funding; critical needs and pre-construction project timelines. While comparable to the last version in terms of total value and the number of planned projects, it also ref lects shifting some project timelines a year or more to accommodate both the funding reduction and needed adjustments to some scheduling.

“These are challenging times, and we appreciate the support by legislators and Governor Stitt in

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

FFY2021-2028 EIGHT-YEAR CONSTRUCTION WORK PLAN •

Total value - $6 billion

•

1,350 total projects

•

Addresses 609 bridges through rehabilitation or replacement

•

Nearly 1,900 miles of roadway improvements, which include more than 800 miles of twolane highway safety improvements on two-lane highways with deficient or no shoulders.

SIGNIFICANT URBAN PROJECTS IN THE EIGHT-YEAR PLAN INCLUDE: •

The advancement of an estimated $7 million project for I-35 pavement rehabilitation between I-44 and John Kilpatrick Turnpike in Oklahoma City to FFY2021

•

Operational improvements on I-35 between S. 19th and S.W. 34th St. in Moore, estimated $1 million project in FFY2023

•

An additional Work Package (WP#3) for improvements at the I-44/US-75 interchange in Tulsa for FFY2028, $30 million estimate

•

96th North bridge improvements over US-169 in Owasso, $10 million estimate in FFY2026

SIGNIFICANT RURAL PROJECTS IN THE EIGHT-YEAR PLAN INCLUDE: •

•

Oklahoma’s bridge infrastructure continues to be in the national spotlight following the announcement in August 2020 that it now ranks ninth on the Federal Highway Administration list of states with good highway bridges. The state was as low as 49th place in 2004 in national bridge condition rankings due to the number of structurally deficient bridges on the state highway system due to decades of underfunding and an aging system. Thanks to legislative funding mechanisms and key funding opportunities by the congressional delegation, ODOT started an aggressive approach to reduce the number of structurally deficient bridges on the highway system. At the end of 2019, just 86 of the state’s 6,800 highway bridges were in that category. ASSET PRESERVATION PLAN Also presented to the Commission was the Asset Preservation Plan for Fiscal Years 2021-2024. This is a companion piece to the Eight-year Plan which focuses on key maintenance projects to help improve and extend the lifespan of pavements and bridge structures. Although smaller in scope and size than the Eight-year Plan, it plays an important role in keeping Oklahoma’s commitment to a safe and reliable transportation infrastructure in place. FY2021-2024 ASSET PRESERVATION PLAN QUICK FACTS •

Total value - $471 million

Beckham Co. – Estimated $10 million project for shoulders and improvements to SH-6 between SH152 and US-283 north of Sayre in FFY2028

•

346 total projects

•

Rehabilitation of 152 highway bridges

Grady Co. - Adding paved shoulders to SH-4 between I-44/HE Bailey Turnpike and SH-37 near Bridge Creek, estimated $9 million project in FFY2028

•

Nearly 1,200 miles of resurfacing

•

Kay Co. – Estimated $9 million pavement rehabilitation on I-35 from US-177 north to Kansas state line, advanced to FFY2026

•

McCurtain Co – An estimated $1 million project on US-259 for intersection improvements between Broken Bow and Hochatown, FFY2024

•

Ottawa Co. - widening and resurfacing SH-137 between US-60 and SH-10 in FFY2028, $12 million estimate

The updated Eight-year Plan and Asset Preservation Plan will continue the progress on addressing structurally deficient or at-risk bridges which will keep Oklahoma’s network of highway bridges in a manageable condition. Also, the plans continue with an investment strategy to improve rural two-lane highways with deficient shoulders and address pavement needs on interstate, U.S. and state highways. Both plans can be viewed at www.odot.org.

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

CARRIER SPOTLIGHT

LUGREG TRUCKING, LLC How did it all begin?

Who was your company’s original

LuGreg Trucking, LLC began with a calling to serve

founder? Are they still involved with the

others. In 1981, our President, Greg Kannady chose

company, to what degree?

to leave college, follow his calling, and partner

Our president Greg Kannady founded LuGreg

with his father, Luke Kannady, to begin a one truck

Trucking and is still involved in high level oversight

tank truck company that focused on serving and

of the company’s operations.

providing “Best in Class” service to the oil and gas industry. Since our beginning in 1981 as a one truck

What do you think sets you apart from

family business, LuGreg Trucking’s goal has been

other carriers?

to be “Best In Class.” Our goal over the years has

With so many great transportation businesses out

never changed – “Let Your Light Shine”. LuGreg

there, we hope LuGreg Trucking’s calling card is

Trucking’s success has been directly attributed

our daily priority and focus to honor our vision

to the grace of our Maker, the goodwill of our

statement of “Operational Excellence for HIS

customers, and the superior performance of our team

Glory.” That statement holds LuGreg Trucking to

members.

some foundational truths and values that cause us to not just focus on the “What we do in business” and

When was it founded?

the “How we do business” but rather the “Why we

March of 1981

do business.”

Where are your headquarters? Kingfisher, OK

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

What issue is the most important to your company right now? As a transportation provider in the oil and gas industry our most important issue currently is market stability. Providing stability in an unpredictable world for our people that provides a platform for success tomorrow which benefits our team members, our customers, our vendors, the public, and His kingdom. If you would segment this question to just transportation issues, LuGreg Trucking feels that one of the most concerning and important issues is to continue to highlight the shortage or reduced pools of good people in driving and technicians’ positions. As we all know in transportation, the need for good people is always there but as regulations continue to get tighter and marketing of the industry downplays the importance and the dignity of those key roles in the world, we will all struggle to provide the needed teams to accomplish our goals. What do you think the greatest benefit from being an OTA member is? Being a part of the OTA allows for a community of like minds and businesses to work together to promote, grow, and educate each other and the public in all things trucking. To be that one voice to call attention to our industry’s value and challenges in our state, communities, and even our nation. During a time when there are so many changes and issues in regulations, compliance, and technology across the transportation industry being a part of the OTA keeps our company engaged and on the forefront of trucking news that effects our business.

environment, we succeed. Because of our faith why we do business matters more than what or how. How do you make an impact on/in your community? Be a good neighbor. With this thought in mind LuGreg Trucking strives to make a positive difference in the several communities in which we are privileged to operate. LuGreg Trucking is dedicated to supporting our local community initiatives, schools, organizations, and events throughout our operating area. We are committed to making a difference in people’s lives and sharing the many blessings that our Maker has bestowed upon us. If you did not get involved in the trucking industry what do you think you would be doing? “I would probably still be somewhere in the oil and gas industry. I grew up in that industry with great people and mentors along the way, so it would be hard to stray much from that.” —Greg Kannady What do you envision trucking to look like in the next 5-10 years? Trucking will continue to evolve to meet the demands of supply while trying to operate within tight regulatory and compliance standards. Trucking will continue to evolve with technology where possible, but our belief is most sectors of the industry will continue to need to identify talented people to push the industry forward.

What successes and failures have you experienced with your company? Our successes and our failures have always been tied to our focus. Keeping first things first. Our core values are; people matter, integrity, quality, strong work ethic, persistence, conservative financial principles, humility, and faith. When we drift from these foundational principles – we fail. When we hold tightly to these foundational principles, no matter the Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

NEW MEMBERS Our diverse membership enables us to represent the interests of the trucking industry in Oklahoma. Together we are driving Oklahoma forward. Help welcome our new members today!

ALLIED MEMBERS THE CDL SCHOOL Albert Hanley PO Box 143346 Coral Gables, FL 33114 Email: avhiii@cdlschool.com http://www.cdlschool.com Services Provided: Driver training TK7 PRODUCTS Andy Hedrick 2809 SW 137th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73170 Email: ahedrick@tk7products.com http://www.tk7products.com Services Provided: Increase MPG 10-20% , reduce emissions at combustion by 40-70% , reduce breakdowns and improve uptime.

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

TRUCKING SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT Jim Sill 5106 Bahama Avenue Sand Springs, OK 74063 Email: jsill@truckingsme.com http://www.truckingsme.com Services Provided: Consulting; training; policy development; curriculum creation; mock audit; compliance review support; FMCSR training; accident prevention training; ground transportation subject matter expert; testifying expert (OSHA/ FMCSA/PHMSA/EEOC/DOL/Taxes)

SAFETY ZONE By Chris Pape

hat do safety professionals do? For many, you might say that’s a large novel of an answer you might not have the time to listen too. I would say that safety does take many different puzzle pieces to be effective, starting with culture, and top-down safety management. It is helpful to always reflect on the basics. Today, we are going to refresh some learning of the safety process. Keep in mind, this may not be all inclusive, but should serve as a good reminder of the key items needed in a safety process. The first step in a good safety process is to identify the hazards. It is a good idea to have a checklist for these types of events for the person performing the assessment, to help identify all the hazards. What are the tools needed for the job? Are there trip hazards, fire, explosion, driving, or any task that could be hazardous to the employee or put additional strain on the body? What PPE might be needed to help protect them? Once the hazards are identified, or even to help identify, it is best to get the employee(s) involved to come up with safest procedural steps for the job, SOP’s. A standard operating procedure will give you a tool for later in the process to reflect and find what could have been done differently, more efficiently, or safer. Another key to employee involvement is the stop work authority. The employee should have the right to say, “let’s get a safety check,” and to call on some help to resolve an issue they find. What type of training do you provide? Is it effective? The simple answer is, if you are having a safety incident, then the training was likely not effective. It is not always “training’s fault.” However, effective training to an SOP that is bullet proof, would sustain in the work process being performed.

Evaluate the training being given, the trainer giving it, and if the training should be completed at more intervals. Pre-startup safety checks are required in trucking, as we all know. But consider the items beyond the Pre-Trip Inspection. Trip planning should include items like the weather, traffic, and additional driving risks, but in addition, do not forget the loading and unloading. Is all the equipment available? Does the employee have the hazard assessment available for the location they will be loading or unloading in? What is their course of action in case of an emergency? Preparation should start before we ever start the truck and should always include emergency planning and a response plan. So, then the incident happens anyway. It is easy to chalk up an event as normal mistakes that happen when we see so many in our industry, but this is a huge opportunity in the process. A thorough incident investigation, locating the true root cause, may lead you back to a process step that is not accurate, or missing! Quality audits of processes can also help locate issues before they become safety incidents. Consider doing site visits, road observations, pretrip observations, shop work evaluations, and even dispatching technique or information supply audits. Our employees that travel the roadways, load, and unload our freight are the keys to all our successes. We hope these tips help you keep your employees, the people working with them, and your company safe. Have a safe day! Chris Pape OSSC Chairman

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

FALL CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT By Rebecca Chappell

020 continued to bring challenges for OTA. Our Summer

the big blow-up dice game again. Also volunteering on the

Shoot-Out Golf Tournament resulted in a torrential

Marshmallow Long Drive was Joe Nation & Terry Horton

downpour, forcing many golfers to turn in early, naturally

with Coffeyville Resources. We appreciate the help from

the Fall Classic Golf Tournament would happen at the

these volunteers!

close of a ‘historical ice storm’ leaving most of Oklahoma without power. Under the advisement of the Course Manager,

Place went to the Southwest Trailer & Equipment’s team.

suffering minimal tree damage, and having electricity, OTA

Flight A 2nd Place went to the Cline Wood a Marsh &

decided to continue with the tournament. Even though the

McLennan Agency/Bowers Trucking team, and the Flight

morning started with a slight delay having to wait for the frost

A 3rd place winner was Love’s Travel Stops & Country

to clear from the course, we were given a beautiful warm fall

Store team. Flight B 1st Place went to the Bruckner Truck

day back at Rose Creek Golf Club. Our Annual Platinum

Sales team, Flight B 2nd Place went to the second Love’s

Sponsor: Bruckner Truck Sales, Annual Gold Sponsor: MHC

Travel Stops & Country Stores team, and the Flight B 3rd

Kenworth, Annual Silver Sponsors: Premier Truck Group,

Place winners went to the UPS team. Southwest Trailer &

and Rush Truck Centers helped bring in almost 60 golfers

Equipment’s Mitchell Brown won the longest drive. Closest

who competed to take home cash prizes.

to the Pin went to Bruckner Truck Sales’ Robert Hoy. The

Volunteer Grant Best of LuGreg Trucking did a great

Winners of this year’s Fall Golf Classic for Flight A 1st

Marshmallow Long drive winner was Bowers Trucking’s

job helping get golfers checked in, while Tara Jones took

Shafe Mashburn. We appreciate the continued support from

to the course offering golfers a prize or punishment with

our members.

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

FALL CLAY SHOOT By Rebecca Chappell

riday, November 6, the Oklahoma Trucking Association

Grant & Lindsey Best (LuGreg Trucking) for donating

held the fourth annual Fall Clay Shoot at the Silverleaf

knives on behalf of their store Gypsy Homestead Boutique

Shotgun Sports in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Unlike the Summer

for the team prizes. First place team was Premier Truck

and Fall Golf Tournaments we were extremely fortunate to

Group, second place team was LuGreg Trucking, and third

have the perfect weather to host this event.

place team was Dolese Bros Co. Finally, do not forget about

Each participant had the chance to hit 100 targets throughout the silver course competing for gift cards and the coveted dead last donkey trophy. After completing the 12 station course the scores were tallied and results were in! Congratulations to LuGreg Trucking’s Craig Branstetter

the Dead Last winner, that honor went to Bruckner Truck Sales’ guest Lorne Grady. As always, we want to say a special thanks to our sponsors. The companies who supported our Fall Clay Shoot were Annual Platinum Sponsor: Bruckner Truck Sales,

for coming in first with a score of 92! Second place was

Annual Gold Sponsor: MHC Kenworth, Annual Silver

LuGreg Trucking’s Eric Ludwig. The third place went to

Sponsors: Premier Truck Group, and Rush Truck Centers.

Premier Truck Group’s guest Mark Kalka. New this year

Lunch Sponsor Purple Wave Auction, Safety Sponsor

OTA was able to give out team prizes. Special thanks to

Dolese Bros Co., and Station Sponsor LuGreg Trucking. Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

Knowledge is Power Not All Trucking Companies Are Alike Trucking is all we do. When you choose Great West Casualty Company to insure your trucking business, you are getting over 60 years of experience serving the trucking industry.

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

HOW TO STAY COMPLIANT IF YOUR ELD GOES DOWN

by Soona Lee | Dec 9, 2020 | EROAD, Inc.

hile we’d prefer technology to work perfectly all the time, sometimes it fails. If this should happen to your ELD during regular operations, make sure you have appropriate policies in place and that your drivers know exactly what to do to resolve the issue. Take a look at the steps below to make sure you’re prepared in the case of a malfunction or ELD outage. WHAT IS AN ELD MALFUNCTION? According to FMCSA, compliant ELDs are required to monitor their own compliance with the ELD technical requirements. This includes being able to detect malfunctions and data inconsistencies related to power, data synchronization, missing data, timing, position, data recording, data transfer and unidentified driver records requirements. As FMCSA notes on their FAQ page, ELDs must identify these issues and notify the driver. There are two main types of ELD issues that may be detected: • Data diagnostic issues – This indicates there is a data inconsistency. This can be caused by temporary loss of GPS, a wiring or connection issue, or the ELD being disconnected from the ECM. Drivers should be able to use their instruction manuals to troubleshoot as some of these can be resolved by the driver.

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

• Malfunction – A malfunction occurs when the ELD detects a technical compliance issue which can be caused by hardware faults, if the vehicle has been out of service for long periods of time and throws off the internal clock, or the unit is disconnected from the ECM or not getting power for more than 30 minutes during a 24-hour period. These more serious issues may affect the driver’s records on the ELD. As a result, the drivers must notify the motor carrier and use paper logs if they can no longer track hours on their ELD. WHAT TO DO IF YOUR ELD MALFUNCTIONS As noted, ELDs that meet FMCSA’s technical requirements must detect device malfunctions and data diagnostic events and alert the driver visually. The driver should notify the motor carrier as soon as they become aware of any malfunction as matter of best practice. If a driver can’t retrieve the past seven days of hours-of-service RODS, and can no longer use their ELD to log hours, they should then begin to record logs on paper and reconstruct logs for the current 24-hour period and previous seven days, which they will need to show during a roadside inspection. This can be quite tedious and frustrating, so before you go to the work of reconstructing logs, make sure you understand which type of malfunction or data diagnostic your driver is experiencing and if you can resolve it on your

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

own or if you’ll need to get your ELD provider involved. As part of the mandate, your ELD provider should give you a malfunction and diagnostic guide that is easy for drivers to use in case of an outage. EROAD’s Malfunction and Data Diagnostic Guide is easy-to-use and includes diagrams that make it simple for drivers to understand which type of malfunction is occurring and whether or not it’s going to be an easy fix or they will need to get out the paper logs. Note that 395.22(h) requires drivers possess at least 8 days worth of blank paper logs with them in case of malfunctions to record RODS manually. HOW TO PREVENT BEING OOS To avoid being placed OOS it’s important to understand what to do in case your technology does malfunction. It’s important to understand that you only have 8 days after your device malfunctions to get it back up and running. If you can’t get it fixed or get a replacement in that time you’ll need to request an extension from FMCSA. Refer to the FMCSA Q&A on how to obtain an extension. If this becomes a regular problem with your provider, make sure they aren’t hanging out on the FMCSA ELD Registry’s revoked list. These are the ELDs that are no

longer approved by FMCSA as compliant devices and you will need to find a new provider. HOW TO PICK A RELIABLE AND ACCURATE ELD Avoid costly outages with an ELD that works. Here are a few tips for picking one that’s accurate and reliable: • Choose a tethered solution. Pick something that is always connected to the engine to optimize the connection between vehicle and ELD, reducing potential outages. • Positive uptime. Reliable ELDs should have a rapid ping rate and consistently high uptime so that you can minimize costly interruptions to your business. • Easy for drivers to use. A device that is easy to use, that comes with quick and simple guides to help drivers stay connected on the road longer and get back on the road quicker. • Reduce downtime. Select a solution that connects to multiple carrier networks, helping to ensure coverage in sparsely populated areas and areas of spotty coverage for major wireless providers. • Third-party verified. While suppliers can self-certify their technologies, pick a provider that has gone the extra mile to undergo independent testing and unbiased verification.

ADVERTISING SPACE AVAILABLE Interested in advertising in our quarterly publication? Contact Rebecca today (405) 525-9488 x1 RebeccaChappell@oktrucking.org 24

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

Lighter. Stronger. Aluminum Trailer Weight, Steel Trailer Value. The next-generation 4000AE® aluminum and steel combo flatbed sets a new light weight standard without a compromise to strength or quality. Weighing less than some allaluminum flatbeds, the 4000AE achieves this feat through a newly-designed and patented crossmember system of both 4" tapered and 3" aluminum crossmembers. Plus, it comes standard with a coil haul package. For a flatbed that delivers both high-value performance and strength, look no further than the light weight 4000AE.

UTILITY TRI-STATE INC. Six locations to service you! Oklahoma City

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(870) 330-4435

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

Built with superior engineering and market-leading durability

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Easy-to-install (no hammering) expandable axle plug Minimizes down time on the road Proper tire inflation enhances safety Personalized Rotary Union available

Drov Technologies 8232 SW 23rd Place, Oklahoma City, OK 73128 405-463-6562 Contact us at: Info@drovtechnologies.com

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

OKLHOMA IN

TECH N LO GIES.C O

IN DED UN O F

ADVERTISING INDEX Bruckner Truck Sales............................................................................................................................... 2 Drivers Legal Plan.................................................................................................................................. 26 Drov...................................................................................................................................................... 26 Environmental Management................................................................................................................... 12 Great West Casualty.............................................................................................................................. 20 Impact Branding Unlimited..................................................................................................................... 12 MHC Kenworth....................................................................................................................................... 5 Premier Truck Group....................................................................................................... Inside Front Cover Rush Truck Centers..................................................................................................................Back Cover Southern Tire Mart................................................................................................................................. 21 Southwest Trailers & Equipment............................................................................................................... 8 Summit Truck Group....................................................................................................... Inside Back Cover TBS Factoring....................................................................................................................................... 23 UPS...................................................................................................................................................... 10 Utility Tri State........................................................................................................................................ 25

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING? What better way to strategically target your market than through the Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine. • Full Color Glossy Magazine • Online Version • Ads Click to Company Page • Outreach to 4,000 • Several Pricing Options • Directly Mailed Throughout Year Contact Rebecca by email Rebeccachappell@oktrucking.org or by phone at (405) 525-9488 x 1. Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

SAVE THE DATE OKLAHOMA TRUCKING ASSOCIATION EVENTS

2021

MIDWINTER CONFERENCE & SAFETY AWARDS Wednesday, March 3 Virtual Event - Details to follow TRUCK DAY @ CAPITOL TBD APRIL BOD MEETING Thursday, April 15 Location: Virtual/OTA Office, 3909 N Lindsay Ave, Oklahoma City, OK NATMI CDS/CSS CERTIFICATION – APRIL (HYBRID EVENT) Monday – Friday, April 26 - 30 Location: Virtual & OTA Office, 3909 N Lindsay Ave, Oklahoma City, OK TMC SUPERTECH COMPETITION Friday, May 7 Location: Francis Tuttle Reno Campus, Oklahoma City, OK TRUCK DRIVING CHAMPIONSHIP Friday-Saturday, June 11-12 Location: Embassy Suites & OSU-OKC Driving Course, Oklahoma City, OK SUMMER SHOOT-OUT Tentative Date: Friday, June 25 Location: TBD NATMI CDS/CSS CERTIFICATION – AUGUST (HYBRID EVENT) Monday – Friday, August 2-6 Location: Virtual & OTA Office, 3909 N Lindsay Ave, Oklahoma City, OK FALL CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT Wednesday, September 29 Location: Forest Ridge Golf Club | Broken Arrow, OK 89TH ANNUAL CONVENTION Wednesday -Friday, September 29 – October 1 BOD Meeting - Thursday, September 30 Location: River Spirit Resort - 8330 Riverside Pkwy, Tulsa, OK 74137 NATMI CDS/CSS CERTIFICATION – OCTOBER (HYBRID EVENT) Monday – Friday, October 11-15 Location: Virtual & OTA Office, 3909 N Lindsay Ave, Oklahoma City, OK FALL CLAY SHOOT Tentative Date: Friday, October 15 Location: Silver Leaf Shotgun Sports - 8513 S Douglas Blvd, Guthrie, OK 73044 FALL TECHNOLOGY WORKSHOP Wednesday, November 10 Location: Francis Tuttle Reno Campus, Oklahoma City, OK DECEMBER BOD MEETING Thursday, December 2 Location: Virtual/OTA Office, 3909 N Lindsay Ave, Oklahoma City, OK Dates are subject to change please check OTA website for updated information To learn more about our upcoming events and ways to get involved visit oktrucking.org/events, call Rebecca Chappell at 405.525.9488 x 1 or email rebeccachappell@oktrucking.org

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 4Q

LT625 SLEEPER

Configuration: 125" BBC Cab: 73" Sky-Rise Sleeper Engine: International® A26 or Cummins® X15

 Long to Regional Haul Applications  Van, Flatbed, or Specialty Haul

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The International® LT® Series is the most driver-centric truck we’ve ever delivered. It’s designed based on the input of hundreds of drivers, with a cab interior that delivers greater comfort, visibility and control over the long haul. The LT Series is the most aerodynamically efficient truck we’ve ever offered, with a choice of advanced powertrains and a host of uptime improvements that impact your bottom line mile after mile, year after year.

KEY FEATURES:  MPG Aerodynamic and Powertrain Packages available to maximize fuel efficiency  Standard Bendix® Wingman® Fusion™ Collision Mitigation System  Standard Predictive Cruise Control for greater fuel efficiency and lower operating costs  Available Eaton Endurant™ transmission delivers best in class service intervals, smooth shifting, and light weight design  Door, side glass and mirror designs improve lateral visibility and reduce neck strain  Premium gauge cluster designed with driver input is customizable with virtual gauges  The dash is designed for the driver with controls and switch placement optimized by frequency of use  LED backlit rocker switches and steering wheel buttons for superior visibility in low-light conditions  Easy-access column-mounted shifter integrated with engine braking helps keep hands on the wheel  Available automatic HVAC system for maximum driver comfort and productivity

125" BBC SET-BACK FRONT AXLE

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With 3 locations in Oklahoma, Rush Truck Centers is part of North America’s largest heavy- and medium-duty dealer organization with over 100 state-of-the-art truck centers in 21 states across the country. Over the years, we’ve earned a solid reputation for excellence, fairness, our positive attitude and solutions that exceed customer expectations. We offer one-stop sales and service representing the industry’s leading brands.

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Rush Truck Center – Oklahoma City 8700 West I-40 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73128

Rush Truck Center – Tulsa 6015 S. 49th West Ave. Tulsa, OK 74107

2020 OMC Q4

Articles inside

FALL CLAY SHOOT

FALL GOLF CLASSIC

INDUSTRY & FEDERAL NEWS

CARRIER SPOTLIGHT – LUGREG TRUCKING, LLC

SAFETY ZONE

FROM THE CEO

CHAIRMAN’S CORNER

STATE NEWS

NATIONAL NEWS