Prime

Slow.. very slow

 

Prime drivers drive slower yes, but there is a valid reason for it. We drive between 55-58mph because of the substantial increase in fuel economy. And we get paid BONUSES each week for hitting those fuel economy targets. So, all those that drive 70+...go for it. I'll be laughing on my way to deposit my bonus check into the bank... )

 

GlobalResponder, Are you really serious? Try putting productivity into formula. The difference in miles you run and what you could have run compared to what you save in fuel cant be enough to make a bank deposit. Years ago Prime trucks went fast, and around every corner was one lying on its side because it took a curve or an exit ramp too fast, the only thing they could do to save themselves was to drop the speed of their trucks. Now with fuel costs sky high, its the reason for driving the limit the set. It seems to me, that prime trucks are like a moving roadblock, and impede traffic, cause more accidents because of quick lane changes, and inexperience of the average age of their operators. Remember, these are just my thoughts on the matter, I have been wrong many times before, but here I think I hit the nail on the head.

 

Prime's accident rates are way down... including rear-end accidents. Productivity... meaning running faster has the downside of increasing your fuel cost. Even if I do run 65, the one extra load each week I may run ("may" because reefer freight is generally not FCFS, but unloaded by set appointment) is offset by higher maintenance costs, increased tire wear, and - of course - a much higher fuel bill. The extra few bucks I may net aren't worth it.

 

As far as working for them, i dont have a problem to report. Im also new to the company. Nice trucks and trailers all taken care of, except the newest ones seem to have the problem of tracking to the right... some wayyy right, which i cant stand. I dont know why prime gets bad press now a days and their csa score is not low at all. Yes we drive slow, trucks are also governed but good mileage. I dont see how some of these guys go 70 or more all the time. Blood pressure must be high due to extra stress, fighting traffic and what not. Just my opinion as a new driver. Maybe il sing a different tune a couple of years from now. Il also add that while im driving at 55, i tend to see the same speed demonds over and over again. Somehow i keep getting ahead of those guys.