2018 Quarter 3

2018 3rd Quarter oktrucking.org

Summer Issue Volume 27

NOVEMBER ELECTION

86TH ANNUAL

CONVENTION

NTDC OKLAHOMA CHAMPION MEET YOUR NEW CHAIRMAN

2018 3rd Quarter | Summer 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.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

........................................

04

FROM THE CEO

07

NATIONAL NEWS

10

INDUSTRY & FEDERAL NEWS

12

STATE NEWS

19

STATE IMPACT

23

NATIONAL TRUCK DRIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS

30

CONVENTION CLASSIC

31

86TH ANNUAL CONVENTION

34

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

1

over 100 locations in 16 states

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP ASSOCIATION MEET THE STAFF

ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairman of Board | Bob Acker Bruckner Truck Sales

CEO | Jim Newport (P) 405.525.9488 x3 jimnewport@oktrucking.org Director of Events | Rebecca Chappell (P) 405.525.9488 x1 rebeccachappell@oktrucking.org Member Relations Coordinator | Genipher Krug (P) 405.525.9488 x 2 genipherkrug@oktrucking.org

General Counsel | George Gibbs Gibbs Armstrong & Borochoff, P.C. 1st Vice Chair | Jo-Don Clanton Pioneer Transport 2nd Vice Chair | Adam Dye Southwest Trailers & Equipment Past Chairman | Greg Price United Petroleum Transports David Freymiller | Freymiller, Inc. Joe Hill | United Petroleum Transports Zac Kannady | LuGreg Trucking, LLC Bonne Karim | TMC Representative Jim Klepper | Drivers Legal Plan David McCorkle | McCorkle Truck Line LaVern McCorkle | McCorkle Truck Line Bob Peterson | Melton Truck Lines, Inc. Bobby Smith | Premier Truck Group Danny Smith | UPS David Snapp | Groendyke Transports

THANK YOU SPONSORS Throughout the year we turn 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 we would not be able to achieve our mission!

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

3

FROM THE CEO

As you know, Driver Shortage continues to remain one of the trucking industry’s top concerns. The Trucking Association Executive Council (TAEC) is a group of peers representing each state trucking association. We are divided into 4 regions across the U.S. and I have chaired Region 3 these last two years. From our previous regional meetings, we brought forth this subject to the entire TAEC group for action. At our annual July meeting we discussed and provided a meaningful dialogue with the ATA’s government affairs and legal departments.

The purpose was to begin a conversation of creating a viable pathway for younger CDL drivers to enter the work place. An 18-year old can drive commercial vehicles now but only within intrastate routes. Because the federal constitution allows the federal government to regulate commerce, anytime “goods” cross a state line, it is considered commerce and subject to federal regulation. Even some apparent intrastate trucking is often under federal guidelines because the goods may have originated in another state.

Regardless, the question becomes, “Does an 18-year-old intrastate driver traveling the 8-hour 45-minute, 562-mile drive from Broken Bow, OK to Boise City, OK become any less safe if they only traveled 73 minutes on the 64-mile journey from Broken Bow, OK to Paris, TX?” Logic would say “no, they only crossed a state line.”

The most practical step would be for the USDOT to lower the mandatory age of drivers from 21 to 18 for interstate commerce. Clearly, this is not simple. It will likely be a long and arduous process, but it is much more logical than trying to change the constitution’s definition of commerce.

Besides bringing some relief to the driver shortage issue, the benefits are obvious. A robust economy literally rides on the backs of trucking. An insufficient number of drivers means we all suffer. When younger individuals are denied entrance into an industry, they move on to other gainful employment elsewhere. By the time they could become a CDL interstate driver, they’ve likely settled into other career paths and their likelihood to become a professional driver diminishes over time.

A professional truck driving career would not be for every 18-year-old however, under the right guidelines and training, many young people have demonstrated a high degree of responsibility and proficiency in the workplace. We trust them to protect our nation through military experience as just one example. From energy to medicine, there are entrance career paths available for young workers. A Pennsylvania high school trains CDL students now. The problem is getting them gainfully employed until they reach 21.

How do we get there? Several necessary steps should rightfully occur. First, is to begin the conversation.

Next, it becomes incumbent on the part of industry to provide well founded safety documentation for those younger drivers currently in trucking. This will require some effort since the federal government doesn’t have statistics for younger intrastate drivers. We will likely need to look towards our insurance company allies for documentation and perhaps begin new tracking systems currently not in place. Lastly, we cannot speak of safety if we don’t back it up. It must be demonstrable and proven. Early discussions revolve around a graduated apprenticeship model for younger drivers. A regimented apprenticeship of strict training, mentorship and team driving with experienced drivers could all lead towards a 2-year program of completion for example.

This is but one example where your voice matters through the Oklahoma Trucking Association. We’re participating in a national dialogue to make a difference. Solutions require hard work and all of us participating to make a difference.

Jim Newport

President/CEO Oklahoma Trucking Association

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

ADVERTISING INDEX AON....................................................................................................................................................... 9 Bruckner Truck Sales............................................................................................................................... 6 Central Tech.......................................................................................................................................... 26 Counteract Balancing Beads ................................................................................................................... 7 Crawford-Phillips, Inc............................................................................................................................. 20 Drivers Legal Plan.................................................................................................................................. 25 Environmental Management................................................................................................................... 15 Great West Casualty.............................................................................................................................. 21 J.J. Keller.............................................................................................................................................. 24 Madewell & Madewell............................................................................................................................ 26 MHC Kenworth....................................................................................................................................... 2 Premier Truck Group......................................................................................................................... 16-17 PrePass................................................................................................................................................ 26 Rush Truck Centers..................................................................................................................Back Cover Southern Tire Mart................................................................................................................................. 28 Southwest Trailers & Equipment............................................................................................................... 8 Summit Truck Group....................................................................................................... Inside Back Cover T&W Tire........................................................................................................................ Inside Front Cover United Petroleum Transports.................................................................................................................. 13 UPS...................................................................................................................................................... 14 Utility Tri-State........................................................................................................................................ 27 Wallwork Financial................................................................................................................................. 15

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• 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 | 3Q

5

NATIONAL NEWS NEW USDOT PILOT PROGRAM PROVIDES BOOST TO MILITARY RECRUITMENT July 5, 2018 | FMCSA

OMAHA, Neb. – U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao, today joined Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer and Congressman Don Bacon to announce that the Department of Transportation will launch a pilot program to permit 18-20 year olds who possess the U.S. Military equivalent of a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate large trucks in interstate commerce.

“This program will allow our Veterans and Reservists, to translate their extensive training into good-paying jobs operating commercial vehicles safely across the country, while also addressing the nationwide driver shortage,” said Secretary Chao.

As directed by Section 5404 of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, the pilot program will grant a limited number of individuals between the ages of 18 and 20 to operate large trucks in interstate commerce – provided they possess the Military equivalent of a CDL and are sponsored by a participating trucking company.

“As our nation prepares to celebrate Independence Day, Secretary Chao and I were excited to highlight a program I helped champion to provide truck driver jobs to young veterans,” said Senator Fischer.

“This innovative program offers a way for our younger Veterans and Reservists to transition to the civilian workforce.

I personally thank Secretary Chao and officials with the DOT who continue to find ways to utilize the training and talent of the men and women who served in uniform for our country,” said Congressman Bacon.

During the pilot program, which is slated to run for three years, the safety records of these drivers will be compared to the records of a control group of drivers.

Complete information on the pilot program and the related information collection is scheduled to be published in the Federal Register on July 5, 2018; an advance copy is available on FMCSA’s website at https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/under-21-pilotprogram-frn.

Before the pilot program can officially commence, FMCSA is required by Federal statute to allow a public comment period, followed by the Agency’s published responses in the Federal Register.

For complete information on USDOT’s Veteran transitions programs into the civilian careers, visit https://www. transportation.gov/veteranstransportationcareers

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

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NATIONAL NEWS FMCSA SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENT ON REVISING CURRENT HOURS-OF-SERVICE REGULATIONS FOR INTERSTATE TRUCK DRIVERS August 24, 2018 | FMCSA

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) today announced that it is seeking public comment on revising four specific areas of current hours-of-service (HOS) regulations, which limit the operating hours of commercial truck drivers.

The upcoming Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM), which will be published in the Federal Register, responds to widespread Congressional, industry, and citizen concerns and seeks feedback from the public to determine if HOS revisions may alleviate unnecessary burdens placed on drivers while maintaining safety on our nation’s highways and roads. The comment period will be open for 30 days.

The four specific areas under consideration for revision are: • Expanding the current 100 air-mile “short-haul” exemption from 12 hours on-duty to 14 hours on-duty, in order to be consistent with the rules for long-haul truck drivers; • Extending the current 14-hour on-duty limitation by up to two hours when a truck driver encounters adverse driving conditions; • Revising the current mandatory 30-minute break for truck drivers after 8-hours of continuous driving; and • Reinstating the option for splitting up the required 10-hour off-duty rest break for drivers operating trucks that are equipped with a sleeper-berth compartment.

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In addition, the ANPRM seeks public comment and relevant data on two recently submitted petitions requesting regulatory relief from HOS rules (1) pertaining to the 14-hour on-duty limitation (filed by the store documents. In an era of instant communication, on- “More than 5,000 spectators gathered for the Pro-Am Owner-Operators Drivers Association) and (2) pertaining the 10-hour off-duty requirement the-fly informationIndependent access, and tech-savvy workforce, this Classic, and thetoSaint Francis/Tulsa Tough-race now has (filed stateby of TruckerNation). affairs is fast becoming obsolete, Scott believes. 2,000 participants and 60,000 spectators! This is huge

for our economy. So how is it that Oklahoma is considered

The Michigan Department of Transportation, a leader in one of the device worst places the country to cycle? most We are Earlier this year, the congressionally mandated electronic logging (ELD)inrule, which required “e-construction,” estimates that the agency saves approx- ranked 45th in the nation. The answer, in part, is road FMCSA-regulated carriers to convert recordsaccess. from paper to an can electronic format, imately $12 millionmotor in added efficiencies andtheir 6 million Road Diets have a signifi cantbecame impact without effective.

ELD rule has reached nearly 99 across the trucking industry, it pieces ofWhile papercompliance annually by with usingthe electronic document increasing ourpercent transportation budget.

We do, however, storage for its $1focus billion program, while re- with need to follow through with funding earmarked for this has also brought to construction HOS regulations, especially regard to certain regulations having a significant ducing its contract modification processing time from 30 activity, as other states have.” impact and other sectors of trucking. days toon3 agriculture days.

The League of American Bicyclists has encouraged

The second half of Scott’s interim study would focushow on tostates to consider fivetokey when hoping to improve Additional information on the ANPRM, including submit comments theareas Federal Register docket, a process known as “Road-Diets” – that is, bike-friendly standings: legislation and enforcement, is implementing available online: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2018/08/23/2018-18379/hours-of-service-ofredefining existing highway lane space such as converting policies and programs, infrastructure and funding, educadrivers. an existing four-lane, undivided roadway segment that tion/encouragement, and evaluation and planning. serves both through and turning traffic into a three-lane

segment two through lanes and a sessions center, two-way, June 12will was take the deadline for submission of interim The first inwith a series of public listening on the ANPRM place Friday, August 24, 2018, study in left-turn lane. at the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention requests in the state House of local Representatives, and Dallas, Texas, Center beginning at 3:00 p.m. time. Further House Speaker Jeff Hickman said he will announce by information is available online: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/event/public-listening-session-hours-service The reclaimed space could be allocated for other uses, July 10 which studies he has authorized. such as bike lanes, pedestrian refuge islands, bus lanes

and/or parking.

Information on current HOS regulations is available online: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/hoursservice/summary-hours-service-regulations

“Cycling in Oklahoma is exploding both as a form of exercise to improve health and as a competitive sport,” Scott Information on electronic logging devices (ELDs) carried on-board long-haul trucks and used by commercial said.

vehicle enforcement officers to check compliance with HOS regulations is available online: https://www. fmcsa.dot.gov/hours-service/elds/electronic-logging-devices

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

9

INDUSTRY AND FEDERAL NEWS

ATRI RELEASES UPDATED CRASH PREDICTOR MODEL July 31, 2018 | ATRI

Arlington, Virginia – The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) today released the update to its renowned Crash Predictor Model, which statistically quantifies the likelihood of future crash involvement based on specific truck driving behaviors (e.g. prior crashes, violations and convictions).

ATRI’s analysis draws on data from over 435,000 U.S. truck drivers over a two-year time frame to expose nearly a dozen behaviors that raise a driver’s risk of being involved in a future truck crash by more than 50 percent.

“ATRI’s Crash Predictor Model is a key input to our driver hiring and training practices. Safety is our first concern and by understanding how driver histories relate to future crash probability, we can develop targeted solutions for minimizing safety risks,” said John M. Prewitt, Tideport Distributing, Inc. President.

Now in its third release, this latest ATRI crash predictor model includes analyses on the impact of age and gender on crash probability. And to better understand the bottom line impacts of preventing crashes, this latest report includes industry average crash costs across six distinct crash types and severity.

Among the key findings from the Crash Predictor Model Update are: The top two behaviors for predicting future crash

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

involvement, each with more than 100% increased likelihood of a future crash, are a reckless driving violation and a failure to yield right of way violation.

Prior crash involvement continues to have a statistically significant relationship to future crash involvement with a 74% increase of the likelihood of being in a future crash.

Women truck drivers were safer than male counterparts in every statistically significant safety behavior and men were 20% more likely to be involved in a crash than women.

Several stable behaviors have emerged across all three ATRI Crash Predictor Models (2005, 2011 and 2018) as statistically significant predictors of future crash involvement including convictions for improper lane/ location, reckless/ careless/ inattentive/ negligent driving and improper or erratic lane change.

Understanding that traffic enforcement, particularly those activities that target the crash predictor behaviors, is an effective tool for mitigating crashes, ATRI also provides a list of “top tier” states which emphasizes those states that have proven track records of maximizing their enforcement resources while minimizing their share of the nation’s truck crashes. Indiana tops that list, followed by New Mexico, Washington, California and Maryland.

INDUSTRY AND FEDERAL NEWS LAW ENFORCEMENT TO COLLECT REAR IMPACT GUARD DATA ON CMVS THE WEEK OF AUG. 27-31 July 31, 2018 | CVSA

D

uring the week of Aug. 27-31, each state’s

and Rubio on Feb. 8, 2018, asking the Alliance to consider

commercial motor vehicle law enforcement

updating its current North American Standard Out-of-Service

department may select one day of that week to capture data on rear impact guards, also referred to as underride guards, on trailers and semi-trailers in the United States.

Criteria to add rear underride guards.

The data collected during the Rear Impact Guard Check safety initiative will be reported to the CVSA Vehicle

As the leading

Committee at the CVSA

organization devoted to

Annual Conference and

improving commercial motor

Exhibition in Kansas City,

vehicle (CMV) safety and

Missouri, in September. Based

inspection and enforcement

on that data, the committee

uniformity throughout North

will make a recommendation

America, the Commercial

to the CVSA Board of

Vehicle Safety Alliance

Directors on how to proceed

(CVSA) is often asked to

with this important issue.

“The Alliance uses

weigh in on policies related to safety and enforcement, and to provide guidance to

data to support its decision-making process,” said CVSA

enforcement, industry and policy makers. As a data-driven

President Capt. Christopher Turner with the Kansas Highway

organization, any decisions to support or oppose an issue

Patrol. “Using quality, verifiable data and analytics allows

must be supported by data analysis and strategic planning.

the Alliance to assess and analyze information that can be

Consequently, the Alliance is collecting information on rear

used to support our stance on various issues, topics and

impact guards to be well informed and properly equipped

propositions.”

to assess and address rear impact safety requirements on

“It’s important to note that inspectors will be conducting

CMVs. The event will also highlight this critical issue for

business as usual and will not be doing anything differently

motor carriers and drivers.

during Rear Impact Guard Check, other than filling out a

Last year, the Stop Underrides Act of 2017 was

data collection form that they’ll submit to CVSA,” added

introduced by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and

Capt. Turner. “Drivers and motor carriers should not be

Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) to reduce the number of

impacted by this initiative.”

preventable deaths and injuries caused by underride crashes

Rear Impact Guard Check is a one-time, one-day CVSA

and to improve motor carrier and passenger motor vehicle

enforcement initiative. Data on rear-impact guards may be

safety. CVSA received a letter from Senators Gillibrand

collected during Level I, II, IV or V Inspections.

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

11

STATE NEWS

GOV. FALLIN APPOINTS BOB PETERSON TO OKLAHOMA TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION August 8, 2018 | Governor Mary Fallin’s Office

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced she has appointed Robert A. “Bob” Peterson to the Oklahoma Transportation Commission.

Peterson, of Tulsa, will replace Peter J. Regan, who has resigned. Regan, of Tulsa, was reappointed to the Transportation Commission by Fallin in 2011 and in 2016. Peterson will represent District 8, which covers the northeast part of the state, on the eightmember commission. His term is scheduled to expire Feb. 15, 2025.

Peterson is chairman and chief executive officer of Melton Truck Lines, a long-haul flatbed trucking company headquartered in Tulsa. Melton operates 1,300 over-the-road trucks, more than 2,000 opendeck flatbed trailers, and employs more than 1,600 people.

“Bob Peterson has demonstrated leadership and vision throughout his career,” said Fallin. “He understands well the importance of maintaining and continuing to improve and expand our transportation infrastructure to improve our state’s economy.”

Peterson began his career in trucking by obtaining a commercial driver’s license, and worked from

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

1985 to 1989 at Contract Freighters Inc., of Joplin, Missouri, starting as a truck driver and lastly as executive vice president of operations. He served as president of GlasTran, Inc., a start-up trucking company he founded in 1989 with 30 trucks before merging it with Melton in 1992. Prior to that, his professional experience included executive management positions in venture capital, bank management and public accounting.

He earned a bachelor of arts in economics and environmental studies from Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota, and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Southern California. Peterson and his wife, Cindy, support several organizations, including the Tulsa Area United Way, the Philbrook Museum of Art, Reading Partners, and Pets Helping People.

“I appreciate Governor Fallin’s confidence in me with this appointment to the Transportation Commission,” Peterson said. “The state of Oklahoma has been a great location for our business, and we’ve benefited from the safe and extensive highway system we have. I look forward to serving the governor and the people of Oklahoma in my new capacity.”

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

STATE NEWS OKLAHOMA APPLIES FOR REAL ID EXTENSION THROUGH OCTOBER 2019 August 7, 2018 | Governor Mary Fallin’s Office

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today officially asked the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (USDHS) to expand the state’s REAL ID extension until Oct. 10, 2019.

If approved, the federal government will continue to recognize Oklahoma driver’s licenses and ID cards until that time. Oklahoma’s current REAL ID extension expires on Oct. 10, 2018.

Oklahoma and the Department of Public Safety (DPS) are working with a vendor to develop a system to issue REAL ID-compliant credentials, REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card. However, the estimated completion and implementation date of the system is April 30, 2020.

The extension would allow Oklahoma driver’s license and identification card holders to use their documents to gain entry into federal buildings and military installations, and to board commercial aircraft.

“Oklahoma is requesting an additional extension to allow our citizens to continue to be able to use their existing driver’s licenses and ID cards to gain access to federal facilities and military installations until the new state system is in place,” wrote Fallin in her letter to James W. McCament, deputy undersecretary for strategy, policy and plans for USDHS. “Without an extension, the state will suffer adverse economic consequences and jeopardize the regular daily activities of many of our citizens. Oklahoma is actively working towards

compliance, but will need additional time to complete the implementation of the new system.”

Oklahoma also is committed to participate in quarterly progress reviews with USDHS, and to provide updates as necessary.

Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005 to make driver’s licenses harder to forge. Oklahoma legislators in 2007 passed a bill forbidding the state from meeting provisions of the act.

Lawmakers in 2017 passed legislation that was signed by the governor, which allowed state officials to begin work on building a compliant system. That includes training tag agents and creating a centralized office to handle card manufacturing and storage.

There are 43 total requirements that must be met by states to be in full compliance. Oklahoma currently is in full compliance with 30 of those requirements, partial compliance with 12, and only one non-compliant. The one non-compliant is the final certification letter that the state can’t complete until it has the system in place to issue the documents.

If Oklahoma is not granted this extension, then driver’s license and identification card holders will need a U.S. passport or other acceptable federal document to gain access to federal buildings and military installations, or to board commercial aircraft.

For more information and frequently asked questions, go to the USDHS website at https://www.dhs.gov/real-id or the DPS website at https://www.ok.gov/dps/FAQs/REAL_ID_FAQs.html

Alex Grove (320) 894-3689 Alex.Grove@wallworkfinancial.com

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

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STATE NEWS

CABLES REDUCE INCIDENCE, SEVERITY OF CROSSOVER CRASHES August 17, 2018 | Oklahoma Department of Transportation

C

able barriers installed in the center median on

on SH-74/Lake Hefner Parkway in 2001 was the first

many divided highways throughout the state have

of its kind to be used in the U.S. Since the SH-74/Lake

been effective in reducing the incidence and severity of

Hefner Parkway installation, there have been about 500

crossover collisions. Now the Oklahoma Department of

official police-reported collisions to the barrier, however,

Transportation is considering cable barriers for a new

there are an estimated 1,000 more that were not reported.

application: replacing guardrails at the side of the road on some two-lane highways.

More than 685 miles of cable barrier have been

thousands of times,” said Transportation Manager Rick Lowry, who is responsible for highway maintenance in

installed across the state since 2007, at a cost of $81

the Oklahoma City metro area. “Our cables get hit every

million.

day.”

Records indicate 37 traffic fatalities in crossover

Cable barrier can be placed in a variety of locations,

crashes on highways with no barriers in 2004. In

but it does not replace concrete barriers and is not

comparison, ODOT logged nine fatalities in crossover

applicable in every situation.

collisions across the state in 2017.

The agency plans to install 11 more miles of cable

Cable barriers are no substitute for attentive driving.

Drivers are responsible for observing established speed

barrier in the near future. US-270 in Pontotoc County is

limits and for driving alert and responsibly for the

slated to receive 4.6 miles of cable barrier and a contract

prevailing conditions on the highway.

is tentatively scheduled to be awarded in October for

Also, cable barriers don’t eliminate crossovers

installation of 6.6 miles of cable barrier on US-81 in

entirely but they are a potent deterrent. The cables are

Grady County.

designed to arrest the forward motion of automobiles but

The department’s 11-county Division 8 in northeastern Oklahoma has recorded 700 cable barrier

have been known to stop large trucks, too.

Lowry recalled an occasion when a fully loaded

hits in the past three years, requiring repairs costing

gravel truck was brought to a complete stop by cables

$842,000. Of those incidents, 605 occurred in Tulsa

installed in the median of I-35 in Cleveland County.

County.

Similarly, a fire engine that sustained a tire blowout

“It is surprising to see how many times drivers

June 3 on I-35 near Guthrie was prevented from crossing

are leaving their lanes, entering the median areas and

into the opposite lanes by the cable barrier in the center

making contact with the barriers,” said Division 8

median. However, ODOT has always cautioned that

Maintenance Engineer Trapper Parks, who oversees

cable barriers are not infallible in regards to larger

maintenance in northeastern Oklahoma, including the

vehicles.

Tulsa metro area. “Fortunately even after a hit, the

18

“The cable barriers have been struck literally

The average cost of installing cable barriers is about

cables can still be effective and the posts can be quickly

$170,000 per mile, compared to $600,000 or more per

replaced.”

mile for concrete barriers.

Cable barriers consist of pre-stretched wire rope

Moreover, concrete barriers deflect most of the

threaded through or around metal posts that are anchored

energy from a crash back to the vehicle, whereas cable

into the ground with concrete. The cable used on

barriers provide a softer impact in which much of the

Oklahoma highways is four-strand. The barrier installed

energy of a collision is absorbed by the cables.

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

STATE IMPACT

NOVEMBER ELECTION

O

klahoma is going into an election season

our list. Our priority is to always be “The Voice of

unlike one it has seen in years, if ever. Many

Trucking” in Oklahoma.

Oklahomans went to the polls voting on our next Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, many open and contested House and Senate seats,

The following 5 state questions will also be on the ballot this November: State Question 793 – a citizen-initiated

and that’s not all. Some won in June, others ended

referendum to allow optometrists and opticians to

up in runoffs. November is going to prove to be one

operate in retail establishments.

for the record books. If you haven’t seen the need

State Question 794 – expanding the

to contribute to the OK TruckPAC Fund, now is the

constitutional rights of crime victims, known as

time to write that check!

‘Marcy’s Law.’

With 101 seats in the House of Representatives

State Question 798 – providing for the election

and 48 in the Senate, Oklahoma is looking at

of Governor and Lieutenant Governor on a joint

approximately 70 new freshman legislators. Think

ticket starting in 2026.

about that challenge. Fresh new faces and fresh new

State Question 800 – creating a new budget

ideas may seem like a fresh new start, but it can also

reserve fund, the Oklahoma Vision Fund, to receive a

pose as an interested threat to our industry. Having

portion of gross production tax revenues.

our industry’s voice heard at the capitol will prove to be a challenging feat. With so many new faces, getting our name out there and telling them where to turn with questions is going to be at the top of

State Question 801 – allowing local building fund revenues to be used for school operations. *For information on how to contribute to the OK TruckPAC Fund, please contact OTA staff.

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

19

SAFETY ZONE

W

hat is “safety” exactly? We’ve all been to seminars, safety meetings, and training sessions where we either hear, or even use the words: “be safe!” We would never insinuate this is a bad expression, but what comes to mind when you hear these words? You might think about slowing down, creating space, or thinking through decisions better.

All good thoughts, but if we wish to take the trucking industry to the next level of safety, maybe we should consider taking our expressions to the next level as well. What “action” items will you be driving when you speak about safety?

“Safety” is a noun. It is defined in Webster as: “the condition of being safe from undergoing or causing hurt, injury, or loss.” Naturally, it becomes more difficult to create action, in any circumstance, when we describe or request items without using verbs. Sounds simplistic, doesn’t it? Well, isn’t driving perceived as simplistic? We often get in to our cars or trucks, strap on the seat belt, crank up the radio, and drive away with nothing more than the destination in mind.

We could speak (or write) for hours on all the necessary tasks of action that must take place to arrive safely. But not speaking of them, not addressing the risk, is where we only add to the possibilities of complacency that gets us all. To be a professional driver, or lead them, we must find every possible way to improve ourselves, prepare for the many obstacles, and to create the muscle memory it will take to maneuver through the many risky environments we must partake in, to keep this country moving.

The largest action should probably start with distractions. At any given moment, there are 660,000 drivers using an electronic device on U.S. roads. In 2016, 3,450 people were killed by distracted driving.

That’s 9 deaths every day! The first “action” words should be “Commit to Zero Distractions.”

Another important action word would be to “think.” Think about all the possibilities of risk around us. Is there a chance the traffic could be

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

stopped over the hill? What is the weather like, will the bridges possibly freeze up? Will the car in front of me stop suddenly? Thinking about possible scenarios consistently will create a muscle memory for us that regularly evaluates opportunity for exposures.

The last action word for this message should simply be “act.” Driving safely doesn’t just mean to watch out for risk. The most common action is to not take any action at all. We often see risky drivers around us. We see aggression, tailgating, upset drivers, distractions, speeding, and many more throughout the day. To “act,” means to create more space when we see them, choose the lane of least resistance, slow down when we notice the distractions, and even to remove ourselves from the risky area when possible.

There are numerous action words and many more safety plans to consider when attempting to operate on the busy highways of this nation. We encourage each of the readers to evaluate possible improvement areas and we welcome your feedback to the newly formed Oklahoma Safety & Security Council (OSSC).

Chris Pape, Vice Chair, OSSC Director of Training, CDS Groendyke Transport, Inc.

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

NATIONAL TRUCK DRIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS OKLAHOMA 4-AXLE CHAMPION

F

rom a young age Nick Arnold always wanted to be a truck driver. Living in Sapulpa, Nick’s mother bought him his first CB Radio when he was 8 years old. Driving him up and down the turnpike, Nick’s mother encouraged him to talk to the other truckers, only fueling his desire to be one of them. Little did she know it became one of his main drives to grow up and be someone she could be proud of.

Becoming a truck driver isn’t always easy.

Sometimes you don’t know where to go or who to turn to. Luckily for Nick, Billy Paul Lay was there for him. “I would like to thank Billy Paul Lay for my first semi ride and for showing me what trucking was all about,” Nick said when asked if there was anything he’d like to say to Billy. With this mentorship from Billy, Nick became the driver he is today.

The 2018 TDC wasn’t Nick’s first truck rodeo. In 2015, his rookie year, Nick took to the course a nervous wreck. Coming back in 2016, no longer a rookie and ever so confident, Nick bombed. He blamed his cockiness. It was then that Nick decided he was going to win.

After that, he got with his supervisors and did what he needed to do in order to succeed.

On June 1, 2018, 102 drivers piled into a ballroom in Oklahoma City at the Embassy Suites downtown. Anxious to get the competition started, drivers sat through orientation before their first break and the start of Oklahoma’s 2018 Truck Driving Championship. This is where Nicks new journey began. With this being his fourth year to compete, Nick went into this competition determined to win. And he did just that.

After two days of tough and close competition, Nick’s overall score of 332- only 2 points above 2nd place- earned him not only the first-place trophy in the 4-axle division,

but a chance to move on to nationals representing FedEx Freight and the great state of Oklahoma. The thirteen-year veteran now had a new goal. In 10 weeks, he would be facing the top 4-axle drivers from every state. His new goal- bring home another first-place trophy.

Nick, along with 8 other drivers representing Oklahoma, met up in Columbus, Ohio on August 15 to start the beginning stages of the 2018 National Truck Driving Championships. Over the next three days drivers competed to try to earn a spot in the top five to move on to finals. Nick did just that, being the only driver from Oklahoma to move into the final stages of the NTDC. On the evening of August 18, Nick headed to the NTDC Awards Banquet hoping to have a repeat from 10 weeks ago. Sam Faucette, NTDC Chairman from Old Dominion Freight Lines, announced Nick Arnold as the 2018 4-Axle Champion.

After hugs, handshakes, and cheers Nick made his way to the stage.

Taking his picture, pumping his fist in the air, and walking off the stage with his trophy above his head Nick had done what he set out to do.

Like many of our great drivers in the industry, Nick knows he couldn’t have done this without the love and support from those around him. “I would like to thank my wife for the love, support, and endless hours of practice she had to endure. My family for all the love and support they’ve given me. And thank you to FedEx for encouraging me to compete. For giving me the tools and knowledge to be the best driver I can be.” – Nick Arnold.

Nick wanted to leave everyone with one last thought— “Safety is NEVER an accident.”

Congratulations again, Nick. The Oklahoma Trucking Association is proud of you!

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

23

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www.driverslegalplan.com Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

“I would like to thank Billy Paul Lay for my first semi ride and for showing me what trucking is all about.

Provided by Nick Arnold, and FedEx

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

29

CONVENTION CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT

By Genipher Krug

O

n August 22, 2018, only a few sprinkles greeted the early risers at the Convention Golf Classic on the beautiful Forest Ridge Golf Club in Broken Arrow, OK. By the time registration was over and golfers were escorted to their starting holes, the rains had parted, and a nice breeze was in the air. Over 70 golfers were about to test their skills and compete to win cash.

It was the perfect start for the Oklahoma Trucking Association’s 86th Annual Convention.

A new, fun game was added to the mix and greeted golfers when they arrived at hole 1, just outside the club house. United Petroleum Transports’ Holly Forsyth was waiting in the wing with an opportunity for you to win cash with the longest drive.

But this wasn’t any normal longest drive- this was to see who could hit a campfire size marshmallow the farthest. Dennis Adamson from MHC Kenworth stepped up to the challenge and took home the cash.

Long time volunteer, Tara Jones, was also on the course giving golfers the opportunity to take strokes off a hole. For a small fee, you had three seconds to pull as much string as you could to use on that hole. Though some didn’t see the need, many took the opportunity to better their score, hoping to win in the end. The games add an opportunity for more fun on the course and your generosity helps to support your association. Thank you for participating.

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

Later that evening at the River Spirit Resort & Spa, CEO Jim Newport greeted the guests and golfers at the annual convention’s welcome reception. There he announced the results from earlier that day. Dusty Runnels from Hamm & Phillips took home money for the shot that landed him Closest to the Hole. TravelCenters of America’s Jackson Chamblee went home a little richer for the Longest Drive. And as you know, Dennis Adamson from MHC Kenworth won the Marshmallow Drive.

Moving to the teams, 3rd place winners with an overall score of 58 went to Summit Truck Groups: Guy Emerson, Broc Hollyman (Basin Transportation), John Titsworth, and Rick Holmes. 2nd place was just 1 stroke away with an overall score of 57, another Summit Truck Group team: Les Stofall, Terry Price, Billy Turner, and Dan Keefe. The dynamic duo of Todd McCarthy (Pilot Flying J) and Adam Dye (Southwest Trailers and Equipment) teamed up and brought home the 1st place title with a score of 55.

Good times were had by all and everyone was happy the weather cooperated. The OTA would like to thank our Host Sponsor MHC Kenworth for their generous sponsorship.

Without the continued support of our great members, the OTA could not be your “Voice of Trucking” in Oklahoma.

86TH ANNUAL

W

CONVENTION

By Genipher Krug

ith a mixture of fun, food, and fantastic content, this year the 86th Annual Convention had a little twist to it compared to the previous years. Speakers from all over the nation came to talk to the OTA members about safety technologies, trucking counterterrorism, and cyber security.

But that wasn’t all the conference had to offer. From golf to gambling, there was something for everyone this year, including spouses! Kelly Snapp, wife of David Snapp from Groendyke Transport, enjoyed dinner, the comedian and free time at the casino while accompanying David.

The Annual Convention was held at the beautiful River Spirit Resort in Tulsa this year. Kicking off our first event, The Welcome Reception (Sponsored by: T&W Tire), CEO Jim Newport announced the winners from the Convention Golf Tournament that was held earlier that day. Members were able to enjoy food, mingle, and network throughout the evening

before the content started the next day. “The food was good, and the staff was friendly and hospitable,” was a comment we received from Bruckner Truck Sales’ Bob Acker.

Thursday morning started with breakfast and quickly moved into the Allied, OSSC, and TMC meetings.

Afterwards, Fred Andersky over Active Safety Technologies and Future Automated & Autonomous Applications. Fred is the Director of Customer Solutions –Controls Group at Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC. “All of the content was pertinent, as it was mostly about upcoming regulations, current issues in trucking including distractions, truck purchasing options, new regulations/concerns on marijuana, etc. These are our daily struggles and given the opportunity to bounce ideas or gain advice on other’s actions or attempts thereof is why we come,” was one of the reasons Chris Pape, Groendyke Transport, enjoyed the conference.

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

31

8 6 T H A NNUAL CONV E NTION

Content wasn’t the only thing that caught the members attention. Retired Lieutenant Colonel Justin Constantine was the keynote speaker for lunch. Justin survived a sniper attack while serving with the Marine Corps in Iraq. Zac Kannady, LuGreg Trucking, said “(The) lunch speaker was so powerful with his message and his mission to connect veterans.” Justin came with CEO and Co-Founder, Jack Fanous, with Job Path. After telling his inspirational story, Justin talked about ways to help fill in the driver shortage the trucking industry faces as well as helping veterans’ transition into working in the civilian world.

The Red Vest Banquet started with a silent auction, giving members an opportunity to take home something other than knowledge. Many walked away with great gifts and a fun outing. The OTA also took the opportunity to say thank you to Greg Price, United Petroleum Transports, our

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

outgoing chairman and welcomed Bob Acker, Bruckner Truck Sales, as our incoming chairman. After dinner, comedian Greg Warren filled the room with cheer and laughter. First time attendee Brian Malatka, Dolese Bros Co., enjoyed the entire event. When asked how he felt about the event he said, “Justin Constanine Hiring drivers (JobPath), Bendix, Cummins, and Ken Dewey, I took something from all of them that I can apply in my industry. Now with Greg Warren I did not get anything I can apply to my industry, but I loved it! Great Entertainment!”

As always, the OTA couldn’t put on great events without the continuing support from our members. We would like to say a big THANK YOU to all of our generous sponsors.

Platinum sponsors for this year’s event was: Bruckner Truck Sales, Hamm & Phillips Service Company, Premier Truck Group, and Summit Truck Group.

E

NATIONAL TRUCK DRIVER APPRECIATION WEEK

very year our industry takes a week to honor all our nations professional truck drivers. This year the National Truck Driver Appreciation Week was held September 9-15. Companies across the nation held cookouts, parties, gave away gifts, and did what they could to show their employees just how much they mean to them.

The Oklahoma Trucking Association knows how hard

our drivers work. With 3.5 million professionals in the industry, our country thrives on the backs of these hardworking individuals. Sharing information on Facebook and Twitter, the OTA works hard to acknowledge all our drivers.

We want to say a big THANK YOU to all the men and women for keeping our highways safe while delivering our goods safely, securely, and on time. We appreciate YOU!

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

33

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE Dear Members and Friends of OTA, I am thankful and honored to be elected to serve as Chairman of the Board of the Oklahoma Trucking Association. I look forward to working with our experienced and dedicated staff to increase the awareness of the importance of trucking and transportation to both our state and the nation.

What a year it has been so far! Trucking and transportation are growing along with the booming Oklahoma economy.

We aren’t hearing about revenue shortfalls, budget cuts and rising unemployment anymore. Times are good but we still have work to do and goals to accomplish. It is important we keep growing our Association by adding both carrier and allied members. If we don’t advocate for trucking who will?

Please consider making a generous donation to our PAC and the Legislative Success Fund (LSF) while business and profits are good. The Association will use that money to advocate for you and ensure you have a loud and clear voice at the capitol.

We just finished our annual convention in Tulsa. By all accounts it was the best annual meeting we’ve held in recent years. There was information, entertainment and plenty of time for camaraderie at this year’s convention. We want our annual meeting to be an event that is both fun and informative for members, spouses and guests; an event that members and potential members look forward to every year. We hope you’ll spread the news if you enjoyed the convention and please, reach out to the OTA staff if you didn’t. OTA will be sending out a survey to everyone that attended, please take a minute to complete the survey so we can plan an even better meeting next year.

Lastly, I want to ask each of you to consider taking on a more active role in the Association. We have a limited staff with a lot of demands on their time. If we as members take on a more active role in planning and executing events it will free up time for Jim and his staff to be working on recruiting new members, advocating at the capitol and promoting our industry. We put on many events every year and those events will be better if we as members, volunteer our time and efforts to help the Association staff. Check out the event calendar or call the office and let Jim, Rebecca or Genipher know you want a more active role in our Association. I guarantee you they won’t turn you down! Travel safe and keep your eyes on the road ahead, it’s going to be an exciting ride!

Sincerely,

Bob Acker

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

35

UPCOMINGEVENTS OKLAHOMA TRUCKING ASSOCIATION EVENTS

SAVE THE DATE OTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING Thursday, April 5 – OTA Office NATMI CDS/CSS CERTIFICATION - APRIL Monday, April 16, 2018 – Friday, April 20, 2018 OTA Office – 3909 N Lindsay Ave - OKC 2018 SUPERTECH COMPETITION Friday, May 4, 2018 Francis Tuttle Diesel Center – 7301 W Reno - OKC 2018 TRUCK DRIVING CHAMPIONSHIP Friday, June 1, 2018 – Saturday, June 2, 2018 Oklahoma City SUMMER SHOOT-OUT Tentative Friday, June 8, 2018 Location TBA, Check OTA website for information NATMI CDS/CSS CERTIFICATION - JUNE Monday, June 18, 2018 – Friday, June 22, 2018 OTA Office – 3909 N Lindsay Ave - OKC 86TH ANNUAL CONVENTION Wednesday, August 22, 2018 – Friday, August 24, 2018 River Spirit Resort – 8330 Riverside Parkway – Tulsa OTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING Wednesday, August 22 – During Annual Convention NATIONAL TRUCK DRIVER APPRECIATION WEEK Sunday, September 9 – Saturday, September 15 NATMI CDS/CSS CERTIFICATION - OCTOBER Monday, October 15, 2018 – Friday, October 19, 2018 OTA Office – 3909 N Lindsay Ave - OKC TMC FALL TECHNOLOGY WORKSHOP Tuesday, November 6 & Wednesday, November 7 Francis Tuttle Reno Campus – 7301 W Reno – OKC FALL CLAY SHOOT Friday, November 16, Check OTA website for information OTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING Thursday, December 6 – OTA Office **Dates are subject to change please check out OTA website for updated information

To learn more about our upcoming events and ways to get more involved visit oktrucking.org/events, call Rebecca Chappell at 405.525.9488 x1 or email rebeccachappell@oktrucking.org

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | 3Q

© 2017

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