Archive for the ‘Preventative Maintenance’ Category

Bad Habits of Truck Drivers

Tuesday, March 10th, 2015

bad-habits

Bad habits are important to break for all of us. Whether they are bad habits at work or bad habits at home, they are known to cause problems. However, while some may think that bad habits are harmless, bad habits by truck drivers can be fatal. Bad habits should be broken and avoided by truck drivers to ensure safety on the roads.

Bad habits for drivers to avoid include:

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Preventing Virginia Truck Driver Fatigue

Friday, January 23rd, 2015

Being a safe truck driver is more than just using turn signals and maintaining a safe speed; it is also about being awake and alert when you’re behind the wheel. Fatigue happens to the best of us, but it is important to know ways to curb and prevent that feeling in order to maintain the ultimate goal of truck driver safety. The beautiful countryside of Virginia is hilly and can be treacherous for truck drivers who are not one hundred percent awake and alert throughout the day. So how can Virginia truck drivers and truck drivers throughout the country prevent the familiar feeling of fatigue?

Virginia-Truck-Driver-Fatigue

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Electronic Device Rules Updated

Tuesday, November 18th, 2014

Truck Device Rules

According to a recent report by the Department of Transportation, a “Final Rule” will be published regarding the use of electronic devices with trucks come September of 2015. Once these mandates have been published, they will begin to be enforced by the law come September of 2017. This recent report released by the Department of Transportation also stated that a mandate regarding the use of speed limiting devices should be published in March of 2015. These rules have been discussed for a few years now and trucking companies have been waiting to see how these new device rules will affect their business productivity.

Some of the regulations being instated with this new publication include the following:

 

  1. A rule will be in place to prevent different carriers from pushing drivers from violating different federal rules, which includes the hours of service in which the drivers operate.
  2. A rule will be in place which regarding the liability insurance minimum that carriers have in place. The rule will not be in place to increase the minimum, but to instead record the different minimums being held by numerous carriers.
  3. A new rule will be in place that allows Clearinghouse to create a database for drivers that have either refused or failed an alcohol or drug test.
  4. The long awaited “Safety Fitness Determination” rule will also be in place after 2015, which will allow different agencies to use data collected to determine scores for different carriers.

 

Evan Transportation was founded in 1992 by Jerry Wolfarth, who at the time had over 25 years of experience in the trucking and transportation industry. The initial operation consisted of a few trucks and drivers who were dedicated and professional. The goal of the company was, and remains, to provide excellent, dependable service.

Contact us today for all of your freight shipment needs or call us at 443-673-3365. We will discuss your tractor trailer options for the freight you wish to ship.

Before you hit the road, check us out on FacebookTwitterGoogle+LinkedIn and YouTube!

 

Source:

http://www.overdriveonline.com/regulatory-update-dots-latest-projections-for-mandating-electronic-logging-devices-speed-limiters/

 

Truck Maintenance Tips

Friday, October 31st, 2014

Truck Maintenance

When it comes to keeping your truck in top shape, truck maintenance is a must. Truck drivers are sure to run into problems along the way, but keeping up with truck maintenance will prevent these problems from occurring often. A well-kept truck is sure to run longer and with fewer issues compared to a truck that lacks truck maintenance. Here are some truck maintenance tips to keep your rig on the road longer:

  1. Be sure to change the oil regularly. Failing to have a proper oil change when needed could lead to serious engine problems later on.
  2. Check the air filter often for damage or clogs.
  3. Before heading out on the road, be sure to check the tire pressure. Poor tire pressure could lead to poor fuel efficiency along with other problems.
  4. Your lights should be checked before any major trips. That includes brake lights, fog lights, headlights, tail lights, and turning signals. You never know when poor weather will strike, and being able to see as well as having others able to see you is crucial.
  5. All fluids should be checked regularly. This includes transmission fluids, brake fluids, and power steering fluids. Anti-freeze and windshield wiper fluid levels should also be checked as well.
  6. Your engine belt should be checked regularly for missing portions, cracks, or other damage.
  7. As minor as it may seem, you should regularly check your windshield wipers. Old or damaged wipers will cause streaking and poor visibility when driving in poor weather.

 

Evan Transportation was founded in 1992 by Jerry Wolfarth, who at the time had over 25 years of experience in the trucking and transportation industry. The initial operation consisted of a few trucks and drivers who were dedicated and professional. The goal of the company was, and remains, to provide excellent, dependable service.

Contact us today for all of your freight shipment needs or call us at 443-673-3365. We will discuss your tractor trailer options for the freight you wish to ship.

Before you hit the road, check us out on FacebookTwitterGoogle+LinkedIn and YouTube!

 

Source:

http://www.progressive.com/vehicle-resources/car-maintenance/

 

Truck Exhaust System Maintenance

Friday, July 25th, 2014

 

Exhaust Systems

When it comes to common truck repairs that need to be handled, exhaust systems are one of them. The exhaust system of your truck can be one of the most vulnerable systems throughout your truck. If a truck driver realizes the warning signs of a faulty or failing exhaust system, repairs can be made quickly to prevent serious damage. Some ways that truck drivers can help their exhaust systems include:

  • Be observant of smoke being released by your exhaust system. If the smoke being released is billowing and seems thicker than normal, there is more than likely a problem with your exhaust system.
  • Listen to your truck as it runs. If you happen to hear a loud rumbling or rattling noise, your muffler could be faulty and in need of replacement.
  • Make it part of your routine to check your muffler for rust and holes. Holes in your muffler could allow carbon monoxide to escape, providing a possibly fatal situation. Rust could allow your muffler to break during a commute.
  • Place the components of your exhaust system away from different elements of your vehicle like the fuel and breaks.
  • Consider upgrading your exhaust system. A high flow exhaust system allows your motor to breath easier and can also increase the fuel efficiency of your truck.

 

Being aware of your the different components and systems throughout your truck will allow you to keep your truck running smoothly and efficiently. At Evan Transportation, our truck drivers and trained staff are always aware of the condition their truck is in. They use similar techniques in order to keep their truck running smoothly and efficiently to get the job done.

 

Evan Transportation, we provide freight transportation for the Mid-Atlantic region for a number of product such as:

  • Steel
  • Food
  • Beverages
  • Lumber
  • Paper Products
  • Retail

 

To get started with Evan Transportation, call us today at 443-673-3365 or visit our contact page.

Follow us today on Google+, Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter.

 

Heat Illness Prevention

Thursday, July 3rd, 2014

Heat Illness

The months of June and July have been pretty hot and humid so far this summer season. When the heat index rises and counties are put under heat advisories and warnings, it’s extremely important to take caution when working in the high temperatures. In order to prevent heat illness, you need to first recognize what they are. The four known illnesses that are brought on by excessive heat are:

  1. Heat Rash- The least threatening of the heat illnesses, this skin irritation is brought on by excessive sweat that has yet to evaporate from the skin.
  2. Heat Cramps- Muscles that have lost salt and water from excessive sweating will become cramped either during or after work.
  3. Heat Exhaustion- When your body has lost salt and water from excessive sweating; you begin to feel nauseas, dizzy, thirsty, and irritable. A headache can occur along with weakness.
  4. Heat Stroke- The most threatening of the heat illnesses, heat stroke will occur when the body is unable to balance its core temperature, resulting in confusion, seizures, and the loss of consciousness. If you believe a coworker is experiencing heat stroke, it is highly advised that 911 should be called.

While driving a truck may seem harmless enough, truck drivers are still vulnerable to heat illness. To prevent such illnesses while driving, there are a few steps you can take:

  1. Drink plenty of water
  2. Avoid liquids with alcohol and sugar
  3. Take advantage of available air conditioning units
  4. Wear clothing that is loose fitting and light colored
  5. Do not remain in a vehicle that is turned off
  6. Park trucks in shady areas if possible

 

At Evan Transportation, we focus on the safety of our drivers. We make sure our drivers are trained in proper safety procedures to ensure they arrive safely to their destinations. Our drivers have years of trucking experience which allows them to know the industry and remain safe while on the job.

Evan Transportation is a Baltimore-based transportation company that also specializes in A-1 Trailer and Container services for the Mid-Atlantic region. To get started with Evan Transportation, call us today at 443.673.3365 or visit our contact page.

You can also follow Evan Transportation today on Google+, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter.

 

Sources:

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/heatstress/heat_illnesses.html

http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heattips.asp

*The writer of this article is not a medical professional. Information contained herein has been collected from sources believed to be reliable, and every precaution has been taken to ensure its accuracy. The information provided here is for general informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care.

Stop Distractions while Driving

Monday, June 30th, 2014

Distractions while DrivingWith summer finally upon us, traffic will become heavy at times with vacationers trying to reach their beach destinations. Add the congestion of road and highway construction to the mix and truck drivers are looking at some difficult driving ahead. This is a time where all drivers, especially truckers, should make the attempt at eliminating all distractions if and when possible while driving on busy highways and interstates. Here are some distractions that can be eliminated:

  1. Cell phones- Whether it is texting or answering a phone call, cell phones probably cause the most distraction to drivers currently. End any texting conversations before you enter your vehicle and then silence your phone. Voicemails and text messages can be answered once you have parked your vehicle or reached your destination. Need to make a serious call? Pull over to the side of the road before even reaching for a cell phone.
  2. Passengers- While truck drivers rarely have “passengers”, other truckers traveling with you can become distracting. Conversations and attempts at making eye contact can easily distract a driver, so try to keep conversations simple and short to eliminate distractions.
  3. GPS- While navigational systems can come in handy during trips; they can also pose a major distraction. Plot your route prior to leaving for your destination and set your GPS accordingly. This way, if detours should arise or your GPS malfunctions, you still have an idea of the direction you are going. Never attempt to engage with your GPS while you are driving.
  4. Food- While snacking and sipping on some water while driving seems harmless; it can become distracting from the road. Spills tend to happen if sudden movement occurs or you drop something, taking your focus off of the road in front of you. Avoid reaching for the food and drinks while driving and wait to have a meal once you reach a rest stop.

At Evan Transportation, we believe safety is a necessity when driving a truck. Our drivers have years of prior trucking experience and know the importance of safety when driving a large vehicle such as a truck. Our drivers are trained to handle a number of scenarios and situations along with choosing the most efficient route to deliver your freight safely and efficiently.

Evan Transportation provides a number of services including freight transportation along the Mid-Atlantic region. To get started with Evan Transportation, give us a call today at 443.673.3365 or visit our contact page.

Be sure to follow Evan Transportation today on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Google+, Facebook, and Twitter.

Driving Safely in Storms

Monday, June 23rd, 2014

Safety in Storms

With the summer season finally upon us, drivers need to be more aware of the weather while driving. Summer means storms, whether we plan on them or not. Even worse, we are also now in hurricane season. While ultimately driving through any type of storm is not advised, if it isn’t avoidable, there are ways to stay safe while doing so.

  1. Check the weather forecast for your future route. This will give you an idea of what you can expect during your drive.
  2. Check your vehicle before leaving for your destination. This includes having a full tank of gas, air in your tires, and working windshield wipers.
  3. Be aware of your surroundings while driving, especially if it begins to rain. Be observant of surrounding cars and any power lines that could potentially fall near you.
  4. Avoid standing water while driving. While it may seem shallow enough to drive through, there is no way to judge how deep it really is.
  5. Heavy winds can cause a huge threat to tractor trailers because of their large stature. If winds begin to pick up while you are en route to your destination, pull over to avoid tipping over in the high winds.
  6. When the storm has passed while you are driving, avoid using cruise control. Cruise control could cause acceleration while your vehicle begins to hydroplane.

At Evan Transportation, our drivers have years of trucking and driving experience, allowing them to be safe during summer storms this season. Our drivers are well trained in dealing with weather situations that come with every season and know how to stay safe when conditions worsen on the roads.

Evan Transportation has been serving the Mid-Atlantic region in all of their freight transportation needs since 1992. With over 600 trailers in our fleet, Evan Transportation is able to provide safe, quick, and efficient transportation to 6 states along the east coast.

To get started with Evan Transportation, call us today at 443.673.3365 or click here for our contact page.

Follow Evan Transportation today on Pinterest, Google+, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.

 

 

Source:

http://blog.esurance.com/hurricane-driving-top-5-safety-tips/#.JGuMdZUU-Uk

Five Preventative Maintenance Tips for Truck Exhaust Systems

Friday, July 12th, 2013

Preventative maintenance of your truck’s exhaust system will keep it from damage and you from worry. The exhaust system in a large truck is located under the hood but most of its parts are contained under the frame. Trucks need an exhaust system to keep its temperature normal, control emissions, and mute the loud noise emitted from the engine. To protect the exhaust system from rust and other natural elements, follow these tips.

  1. iStock_000008146302_SmallLook for unusual smoke. This unnatural smoke would be thick and billowing – the muffler could have damage.
  2. Check for holes. Does the muffler have holes? This could be damage from corrosion or rust and should be repaired as gases such as carbon monoxide can seep through, which would be fatal. If the hangars are rusty, they could break while the truck is in motion.
  3. Listen for strange noises. Are you hearing sounds coming from the bottom of the truck? A loud rumbling is a sign of a faulty muffler.
  4. Upgrade your system. A high-flow exhaust system will let the motor breathe and will be less likely to become damaged.
  5. Position the components. The parts of the exhaust system should be 1 1/2 inches away from the fuel, brakes, and any other unprotected elements.

Many of the employees at Evan Transportation are trucking veterans and experts on transportation. Evan Transportation prides itself on customer service; the employees can direct you on next steps and provide the best preventative maintenance tips for your truck exhaust system so it can make it through the long haul.

If you need materials and products moved in the Mid Atlantic region, contact Evan Transportation. We hire professional drivers with excellent driving records, and maintain a fleet of trailers and vehicles that are reliable and ready to roll.

Contact us today for all of your freight shipment needs or call us at 443-673-3365.

Before you hit the road, check us out on FacebookTwitterGoogle+LinkedIn and YouTube!

Sources:

10 Ways to Maximize Fuel Efficiency on Older Trucks, Exhaust Muffler, Know When a Muffler Is Broken