In response to an article in our last Producer Update on commercial auto issues (read article here), Steven Tulchin of Tulnoy Lumber wrote in with further insights. Here are his suggestions, particularly helpful for heavy trucks and long-haul routes:
- Switch to automatic transmission trucks from stick shift. There were some holdouts regarding larger trucks, but there is no need for a stick anymore—plus, we think the MPG rates will be higher.
- Purchase some of the newer safety related options for trucks: variable cruise control, lane assist, blind spot detection, etc. We spec’ed some newer technology recently, and we were pleased with the functionality.
- One area where we may see an improvement on the road is related to long haul truckers and the new electronic log requirements. If long haul drivers are “forced” to take their breaks and sleep, the roads may be safer because of it (if they’re not distracted from the new reporting requirements).