The Truckers’ Report flatbed Hall of Shame.

At least it looks like he was smart enough to stop and check, but...not knowing your height and the bridge heights along the way, still puts a crimp in the competency score.

 

Have to wonder what that cost.

 

Looks like the sprayer arms wouldn't clear so probably cost nothing unless he got a ticket.

 

I just scrolled through a dozen of videos on youtube made by safety instructors of large carriers and most of them strapped the loads with hooks attached to the side rails. I know a question like this always causes a fire. However, the FMCSA rules are pretty clear on that:
- All tiedowns and other components of a cargo securement system used to secure loads on a trailer equipped with rub rails must be located inboard of the rub rails whenever practicable.
I mean you can strap the load however you want. But as an instructor shouldn't they teach new drivers according the official laws and rules and not the way they like it to be? Just curious.

 

Not all trailers have a place to hook inside of the rub rail. Thus, in that case it is not practicable.

 

I wonder if those trailers without a grab spot underneath, could the rub rails be a thicker gauge to compensate so as to act as securement point?

 

That's true. But I wouldn't mention it if they didn't have them on the videos. Rolled around and hooked to the rails in every possible way.

 

My MAC has no other place than the rub rail to hook the straps to. There is a plaque on the trailer listing the WLL of the rail, spools, and stake pockets. Rub rial on my trailer is very thick. Over 3/8”. The clevis hooks on my 3/8 chain won’t fit on the rail.

 

Well I don’t know what videos you are talking about so I can only guess

 

Law that straps are to be inside the rub rail