When to call it a day.

Use the radio, flash high beams, and even blow the horn. If no response then you call for help. I do not feel bad when I call and it may save lives. We even keep records on how many druck drivers we have called on. We're hauling gasoline so all the people can drive but when someone is trying to kill us we take pleasure in seeing those people in cuffs on our next load out.

 

I've reported a couple of semi's before for this issue and a couple of 4 wheelers for the same thing. One of the truckers I called in was having a health issue and wasn't "with it" enough to realize he was having a problem. IIRC it was an exhaust leak that was causing the problem, I was behind him and kept flashing my lights at him, finally I called the cops, they chased us both down and were able to get him to stop.

 

I agree with most of your post except this on line. Just because he was sleepy or couldn't keep it in his lane has nothing to do with being legal or illegal. He may have just started his day at 10pm, we all know how that time from 3-5am is usually hard to stay awake for most. That's the whole problem with HOS just because your legal doesn't mean your safe. The main thing is if your tired stop and get some sleep. You'd be amazed how refreshing a 15-30 minute nap will do for you, at that time of night especially.

 

I have had to run MANY times because the logbook said I had the hours and dispatch wanted the load moved. It is not always the result of illegal running.


Also, even if you are legal and have an accident, rest assured, your insurance company will pay off even if the other is at fault.

 

I know what your saying. I have worked for companies the same way before. I just say ok and turn the phone off and go to sleep when I'm tired. I sleep when I'm tired it'll get there when it gets there if it's late tough ####. I run my ship. Yes I've been threatened with my job before and I tell them all the same thing. I was looking for a job when I found this one I'll find another one when I leave here too.

 

I told them about it and went back to the little truck. Make about 3 times what I made in the big truck.

 

You most probably saved this driver's life. And who knows how many others he might have taken out along with him!

 

This is the perfect thread to share this video. This is Hollywood2NY from YouTube's accident:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGIA5G8q3ms



American Trucker

 

SAFETY AND BEING SAFE

Should never come SECOND to anything...PERIOD
These trucks at times are 40 ton rolling killing machines....
If your tired please STOP
If the weathers bad please STOP
If the roads are bad please STOP
If you are stressed please STOP

There is no excuse...One cannot take back a real bad decision..It's just not worth it.