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On this episode of All About The Car, we speak to Certified Motor Vehicle Safety Specialist, Tom Senecal. Tom and the team lead us through the history and major changes in the trucking industry. Tom answers our questions about some confusing areas of commercial and recreational driving. Listen to the full episode below, or wherever you stream podcasts.

 

 

Here are some takeaways from our jam-packed conversation:

 

How did the trucking industry grow into what it is today?

The trucking industry really took hold in World War I when the need to transport troops and equipment became vital. Growth surged in the 30s when paved roads became more common. Development of interstate highways caused another boom. Trucking still remains an integral part of moving goods in conjunction with shipping, rail and air transport.

 

What are the major changes the trucking industry has gone through in recent history?

The Department of Transportation (DOT) was established in 1966 to oversee the various groups that regulate transportation in the United States. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) was created as a separate agency under the DOT in 2000 as part of a bill to improve safety regulations within the motor carrier industry. More recently, new training requirements have been introduced with the Entry-Level Driver Training Program (ELDT) rule. This rule was enacted by the FMCSA in February of 2022. An unexpected change to the industry came about during the COVID-19 pandemic. The workforce has greatly reduced and not because of lack of jobs. Demand for commercial drivers is hire than ever. Like other industries experienced during the pandemic, workers have not returned to their original professions. The average age of truckers is also an issue. An aging workforce is retiring without younger replacements. We are currently down and estimated 850,000 commercial motor vehicle operators today.

 

When does my vehicle require a Department of Transportation number?

Does a vehicle have to be registered with the DOT when hauling anything? No. But just because you aren’t a trucker, doesn’t mean your vehicle is not subject to DOT inspection and regulations. Simply put, if your vehicle is used in an environment where commerce has occurred, it requires a DOT number. For example, if you use your pickup to run your side business doing handyman work or landscaping, it has become a commercial vehicle and is required to be registered with the DOT. What about some unexpected situations that would require your vehicle to have a DOT number? Have you ever entered your car, ATV or boat in a race with a cash prize? Well, you are using it to potentially earn money and now it requires a DOT number. You are also required to have a DOT number if you are using a vehicle to run an errand for your boss and you are getting paid for it. You have technically been dispatched to perform a delivery or task for your company – that includes grabbing donuts for the morning meeting!

 

What can a non-commercial driver do to keep the roads safe?

With all the training and regulations that commercial drivers have to adhere to, what are ways you can do your part to keep the roads safe? First, pay attention to the big rigs. They will signal where they are going and may need extra space and time to get there. Oversize loads will often have a pilot and chase car helping to warn traffic and draw attention to the considerations other drivers will need to make to travel safely on the same road as a huge load. Another way you can make the roads safe for all is by knowing the limits and safety regulations of the trailers you use to haul your recreational vehicles and personal cargo. Properly secure your trailer and do not exceed weight or speed limitations. The speed limit may be 70, but your trailer and tires may not be rated to safely travel at that speed.

 

We learned so much from Tom about the trucking industry and safety considerations we should all keep in mind as we share the road. Listen to the full podcast above and view the full transcription here.