By
Chett Winchell
The outcry from the result of the death of a driver just trying to do his job... robbed for $7.00 and killed leaving an expecting wife is just terrible. I am not certain that the passing of Jason's Law is a total fix. There are too many variables to overcome. In many circumstances, both the shipper and receiver have no room for parking semis on their property... they have no additional room available. This is especially true in congested areas where any parking is a premium.
While it is nice to have "in-house" solutions for a line haul example is one thing; the driver leaves the terminal and drives to another company facility with a secure parking area for parking and sleeping. However, not every driver can fit into this scenario.
While talking with Herb Wells, a driver for Prime, he admits there are very few circumstances that he has found where the shipper and/or the receiver allow the driver to remain in a secure area on property... once you are either loaded or unloaded - get off the property within 20 minutes to an hour! He tells me that while he is usually aware of his surroundings, he is not familiar with every area in the USA. He ensures that he stops in an area that is well lit.
Ken Moore is an owner operator, has encountered many towns that do not allow overnight tractor-trailer parking. This has impeded his hours of service in the past. Ken prefers to park in well-lighted areas behind a fence, but that is not always an option. Ken states that he always locks his doors and has his windows up. He has also carried a can of grizzly bear pepper spray in the past.
A.J. Dionne carries mostly glass for Combined Transport. He ensures that his cell phone is always readily available in his sleeper at night and is programmed for emergency 911 calls. Additionally, he has a "D" cell maglite for thumping if needed. A.J suggests that whenever possible, always park in a well lit area and always walk out in front of, not between trailers or a building.
Kyle Kos, Transportation Manager for Reid & Wright said that the only security restriction his company has is not to drive between 9:00 pm and 03:00 am to avoid early morning wrecks. He also told me that he expects his drivers to know what to do and to protect themselves, the truck, and the load.
There are plenty of options on load security and even certifications to that effect. Restrictions from company guidelines and insurance companies seem to regulate company options on load security and driver qualifications. However, in talking to drivers and companies, there are few personal security policies. What actions are you prepared to take to remain safe? Drivers need to have almost automatic settings for personal safety. This includes proper pre-planning of the trip to be able to shut down under normal circumstances at a specific desired location. Notify someone of that location in case of trouble. Additionally, if there are circumstances beyond your control as a driver, let your company know where you are. Always know the hours of operation for your receiver or shipper and call them in advance of your arrival. Always park in a well-lit area if possible, lock your cab and secure your windows. Watch out for unusual noises outside your truck at night. If you do have to get out, check all your mirrors before you exit the cab, be aware of your surroundings, and walk straight to the open area available.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me through the article feedback.
Keep on trucking safely!!
