Friday 6PM et "TCGO is making a difference for trucking families battling grave situations" AskTheTrucker Live will have an update for you regarding the Truckers Christmas Group, On our last show, "Truckers coming to aid of fellow truckers during TCGO Christmas campaign" we discussed how trucking musicians, industry leaders for trucking charities, and other advocates such as Bill Weaver, Paul Marhoeffer, Taylor Barker, Mandi Jo Pinhierio, Jason Henley, Tony Justice, Ken Freeman, Keith Sampson, and more are working with TCGO to raise awareness and funds for the 2019 TCGO campaign.  This fundraising campaign literally "saves" the Christmas holiday for trucking families. Tonight we will talk about the families and their needs. These are trucking families battling grave situations folks. We also want to give a shout out to those sponsoring families and to all those who have donated to the Truckers Christmas Group, coming to the aid of their fellow truckers in need. Join Tom Kyrk and Donna Smith as they update on the progress and how YOU can help reach the $20,000.00 goal so all the nominated families can be aided.  Let's not turn any of these wonderful families away.   Take the $5.00 donation challenge today and donate here. It's safe, easy, and it will help more than you know. Call in number for the show 347-826-9170 to either listen in or be a part of the show.  

Truckers coming to aid of fellow truckers during TCGO Christmas campaign Saturday Nov 9th 6PM ET  Call in number 347-826-9170 It's that time again! The Truckers Christmas Group Org (TCGO), in its 12 year, is continuing its commitment to help as many trucking families in need during the holiday season as they possibly can.  This year has proven to be particularly challenging for many truckers and their families. Between layoffs, bankruptcies, illnesses, and other catastrophic occurrences, the need for funding is vital.  Learn more HERE   Watch the Christmas Video- How the Truckers Saved Christmas-combined effort by Bill Weaver Music and TCGO  Music copyright Bill Weaver Music-Video Copyright Truckers Christmas Group.Org This year, Trucking musicians, industry leaders for trucking charities, and other advocates such as Bill Weaver, Paul Marhoeffer, Taylor Barker, Mandi Jo Pinhierio, Jason Henley, Tony Justice, Ken Freeman, Keith Sampson, and more are working with TCGO to raise awareness and funds for the 2019 fundraising campaign. Press Release JOIN US TONIGHT Tom Kyrk, TCGO PR Coordinator, co-hosts the show. Learn how you can help our nations truckers.in their time of most dire need. Whether it be volunteering, sharing,a donation, sponsoring a family, or purchasing from the TCGO store, your commitment to help will be a blessing!.  MERRY CHRISTMAS!

AsktheTrucker "Live' Open Forum-ELD Exemptions and Federal Authority Provisions Saturday June 2nd 6PM EST Call in 347-826-9170 The discussions continue as truckers move full steam ahead addressing the 2 most pressing issues in the industry today. ELD mandate and the Federal Authority trucker wage provision. The ELD Mandate Exemptions H.R. 5948 H.R.5948 - To exempt motor carriers that own or operate 10 or fewer commercial vehicles from the electronic logging device mandates, and for other purposes The Anti-Trucker Wage legislation to be voted on in the Senate this month. The Federal Authority provision known as the Denham Amendment or F4A , which if passed in the 2018 FAA Reauthorization bill and THUD bill ( they are currently in both House versions), would minimize and limit trucker wages by way of a New Federal Law  

Kevin Reid is the Founder and CEO of the National Minority Trucking Association with over 21 years of sales, marketing and executive management experience within the transportation industry. The NMTA provides education, resources and strong representation to all truckers across North America, with its founding focus based on the representation and educating of minorities within the industry. Mr. Reid began his transportation career in sales and marketing for an Atlanta based courier company before launching Universal Courier where he served as CEO. He then began serving as a go-to consultant for minority start-up trucking firms. Later he would become the co-founder of an Atlanta based intermodal trucking company where he served as Sr. Vice President. While serving in various industry positions, he was motivated to launch the NMTA as he discovered a void in the representation of minorities in the trucking and transportation industry. The NMTA offers many services and benefits such as education, training and consulation, all aimed in assisting truck drivers to succeed in their chosen profession. In addition to their strong representation, NMTA is constantly working to provide new benefits and services that will aid their members. These services and programs are designed to provide big fleet purchasing power to the independent professional trucker. Regardless of whether one is an owner-operator with their own authority or leased, or a company driver, the NMTA offers access to important benefits ranging from business operation, employment assistance and IRS Filings starting as low as $9.95 per single vehicle. Kevin Reid joins us as our special guest to further discuss the continual vision of the NMTA and to share some startling facts about the minority population within the trucking industry.

It is Open Forum for this broadcast of Truth About Trucking "LIVE" as Donna and I will share about the recent Industry at Sea 2014 event and any trucking-related topic that comes to mind! We will also touch on the SBTC's recent Police Misconduct Complaint filed with the U.S. Department of Justice on behalf of fellow truck driver: Kenny Capell. How about National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, beginning Monday, September 15? Your thoughts on this event? Is one week out of the year enough and what do you think the industry as a whole should be doing, relating to the appreciation of truckers? Have a topic you would like to discuss? Join us as we open up the phone lines where our callers decide the topics for discussion. Have a new website, business or service to share with our listeners? Call in and tell us all about it. Call-in number: 347-826-9170 ... come join the conversation!

Topics are open but we will be including discussions on accountability for the qualified driver shortage, why new drivers are not entering the trucking industry, and more importantly, why are they not staying?  And Finally, is there a correlation between driver wages and safety? Call in number to be a part of the show: 347-826-9170 Be a part of the chat room by opening a blog talk radio account. We will be giving away Tony Justice CD’s in the chat room!

Can’t make it to GATS this year? No problem, Truth About Trucking "Live" is bringing it to you! Among some of our scheduled callers tonight are singer songwriter and Emcee of the Overdrive-Red Eye Radio Trucker Talent Search, Tony Justice; Finalist of Overdrive-Red Eye Radio Trucker Talent Search, Brad James; Country recording artist and Highway Angel program spokesperson Lindsay Lawler; Overdrive’s 2014 Most Beautiful winner,Emily Weymouth and Kylla Leeburg, Deputy Director at Truckers Against Trafficking. Others expected to call in, sharing the GATS 2014 experience are: Tom Kyrk of the Trucking Solutions Group, Christina Schnese of Make It Happen USA, James Lamb of SBTC, Dr. Pamela Thomas for the Truckers Rolling Against Hep-C Campaign, and whoever gets pulled into the show as they walk by! Come join the conversation as Truth About Trucking "LIVE" takes you "inside" GATS 2014 with some of the biggest names in Trucking Social Media.

Discussion will include the paradox between Hours of Service, Truck Driver Fatigue, and  waking up of professional drivers by law enforcement during their FMCSA mandatory 10 hour break period. As The FMCSA continues to strive for greater highway safety within the trucking industry, many times by the addition of new rules and regulations, the main focus in combating truck driver fatigue should be allowing drivers to sleep when tired. According to the 2013 Truck Parking Survey results, drivers reported that their rest was being interrupted by state law officials on a regular basis. Our guests are Kenny Capell, and Martin Hill, founder of the Don't Wake Me Up Organization. Having been awaken from the sleeper berth at a Georgia scale by LE officials demanding to see his ID, Mr. Capell stood by the 4th Amendment,and refused. Filing a 42 U.S.C. Section 1983 Federal Civil Rights lawsuit against the troopers, he has a court date set for August 11th, 2014. Mr. Capell and Mr. Hill will share the full story and why they believe it to be a direct violation of trucker's rights.

As professional truck drivers make their way across the country, their job calls for them to work in every high crime area in the United States. Major cities such as Chicago, Detroit, Memphis, Baltimore, Oakland, the boroughs of New York City and everywhere in-between, truckers can find themselves in serious and dangerous situations. With the trucking industry operating 24/7 with scheduled pickups and deliveries at any given time of the day or night, these men and women of the highway face many areas of criminal activity and can often be the targeted victim as well. Even though there is no Federal Law that prohibits truck drivers from the legal right to carry a firearm for protection, individual motor carrier rules may do so. In 2012, Detroit city alone was home to 386 murders and 15,009 violent crimes as this is one of many major freight hubs where truckers must conduct business to keep America moving. Furthermore, rise in crime has fast been expanding outside of the typical major city areas such as states in the South and Midwest. The reality of trucking is that it can be a dangerous job and the inability for the driver to carry protection due to company rules and regulations can only add to the situation. Even with a legal state permit, drivers can find themselves in trouble if the transporting of the firearm is not in accordance with Federal Law 18 U.S. Code § 926A. Also, not every State recognizes an individual's State CCW. For example, only 34 states currently recognize a concealed weapon permit from the state of Florida; another aspect that could cause trouble for the driver entering such a state as New Jersey. It varies from state to state even more, as for example, only 18 states will recognize a permit from the state of Illinois. Where do truckers stand on their ability to carry for their own personal protection?  Call-in number: 347-826-9170

With the shortage of safe and secure parking for our nation's truck drivers back in the news, join us as we discuss the dangers drivers face every day because of the lack of safe truck parking availability. Who is responsible for putting drivers at added risk? Where are the most difficult areas to find truck parking? How are regulations adding to the already dangerous parking situations? Who doesn't want to see more available truck parking? Our guests include Hope Rivenburg of Jason's Law, Desiree Wood of Real Women in Trucking and our special guests, Ashley Boeglin and David Clark, wife and father-in-law of Michael Boeglin. We will also review some startling results of the 2013 National Truck Parking Survey led by Hope and the detailed data analysis performed by Ms. Wood. Join us for this very important broadcast.

For our show this evening it is Open Forum to "Anything Trucking". From Truck Driver Health, Sleep Apnea, Improving Driver Image, Truck Idling, Not allowed to park at shippers and receivers, The 14 hour clock, the FMCSA, Detention Time, Wages, Fuel Taxes, Best Trucking Event/Show, Are Truckers Safe Drivers? CSA scores, truckers and brokers . . . Just a few topics to start with, but all Trucking Topics are open for discussion... We will also have a special announcement to make during the broadcast ... Join the Chat Room for our free Tony Justice Music CD Giveaway. So far 6 CD's have been given away via the chat room. 6PM ET Call in number: 347-826-9170

Truth About Trucking’s Open Forum let’s you pick the topics, and there is no shortage of topics to go around this week. In the past few weeks hot topics include:  Amendment for the 34 hour Restart provision, followed by FMCSA Administrator Anne Ferro’s infamous blog post, Maxim Magazine “serial killer” ad targeted towards truck drivers, OOIDA’s call for Anne Ferro’s resignation and the tragic Walmart accident resulting in death and injury, ultimately calling for more driver regulations from safety advocates, celebrities, government officials, and the media. Have something to say or further add to the topics of discussion?  Join us 6PM ET and Join the Chat Room on your smart phone or computer. We will be giving away 2 Tony Justice CD’s  and 2 Essante Organics gifts in the Chat Room as well. You can also listen through your phone by calling in to the show via:  347-826-9170. Featured Musical Artist: Brad James - "DETENTION TIME" Come join the conversation!

For the month of JUNE, Truth About Trucking "Live" Radio will be dedicated to Truck Driver Health concerns including obstacles and challenges that drivers face on a daily basis. For our first part of our series, we will address the serious state of truck driver health, including the illnesses drivers face, the choices they have made in the past and the viable decisions they are now making: Real life solutions for a better quality of life. Our speical guests are three professional truck drivers who will share their testimonials and explain how they have changed their lives and also how they are mentoring and encouraging other drivers to change theirs as well. Their continual research for better health has created a wealth of knowledge among them which they will share as we kick off our first part of our Truck Driver Health series. Donna will also share some of her insight she has learned and applied on living a healthier lifestyle, once finally diagnosed with Crohn's Disease. Our special driver guests include: Mike Adams of Truckin Fitness, Tom Kyrk of Trucking Solutions Group and Road Tested Living and Rich Chelson of Essante Organics. Join us as we address the causes of many driver illnesses, including: obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, arthritis, joint pain, digestive and many others for this SPECIAL Truck Driver Health Series.

 Stop the Full blown Attack on Driver Wages in FAA bill  Saturday 5-5-18 6PM eastern Call in 347-826-9170 What does the ATA lobbied Denham Amendment have in common with truck driver wages?   EVERYTHING!  BY passing the Denham provision in the 2018 FAA ReAuthorization bill, it would be the most direct and egregious attack on driver wages ever. The Denham provision would allow the Federal government to Preempt all state labor laws which protect employees, ultimately creating new law regulatting wages of those involved in interstate commerce. The Denham Amendment has been slipped in the FAA ReAuthorization bill and most drivers don't even know what the devastating long term effects could be on their wages. Here is the simplified version of the effects of the Denham Amendment. Legally, drivers will only have to be paid for the miles they drive, no matter how many hours they work.  Here's how!  "STOP anti-trucker wage DENHAM AMENDMENT in FAA Reauthorization Bill"  Denham Amendment is broken down and explained;  Denham, For the 6th Time??? NO, It’s Time for Denham To “Hit the ROAD!!! ATA’s Myths and Facts about Denham Amendment Busted      

Regulations, Fuel Cost, EPA, Carbon Footprint, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Engine Maintenance Cost, Oil Lubricity, CARB, DEF.... What does it all mean to the owner operator and fleets? In one simple word...money. Whether they are spending it or saving it, how much do you have to spend in order to eventually save? There are many products on the market designed to reduce operating costs. The question most will ask themselves is which products will ensure profits and yet meet or exceed government standards? Join us with our special guest, Anthony Evans, Founder and COO of Onboard Oil Tech as we discuss the challenges modern day owner operators and fleets face as they maintain their bottom line while upholding regulation mandates and requirements.

Can a “New Deal” of Broker Transparency solve related problems in the trucking industry such as low profits and wages and reduce fraud? Did the $75,000 bond increase, intended to reduce broker fraud, actually hurt owner operators and small business and If so, how? Did the bond help reduce broker fraud at all? Learn who is the first broker to embrace the idea of rate transparency: join us as we discuss “Broker Fraud and the fight for Transparency” as James Lamb,CEO of DOTAuthority.com; President, AIPBA and General Manager of 12PL, returns as our special guest to continue the discussion and explain solutions. We welcome those who oppose “Broker Rate Transparency” or have questions, to feel free to post them below on the comment section or call in to share your views as well: 347-826-9170.

On May 21st, 2014 all Interstate Commercial Drivers and Motor Carriers will be required to begin using an examiner listed in the National Registry Of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) to obtain or renew their Medical Examiner's Certificate. As a new program from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), it will require all physicans who perform physical examinations on CDL drivers to be trained and certified on the FMCSA standards, guidelines and regulations according to 49 CFR  §391.41 (Physical Qualifications for Drivers). The requirements are found in part §391.41 and §391.43 and the FMCSA has stated that they are on target for reaching its goal of 40,000 Certified Medical Examiners (CME) by the compliance date. Elaine M. Papp, RN, MSN, COHN-S CM, Division Chief for the FMCSA Office of Medical Programs joins us as our special guest to discuss what the new program will mean for CDL drivers and motor carriers.

Henry Albert is the owner of Albert Transport, Inc. out of North Carolina and has been in trucking for 30 years. Jimmy Nevarez is President of Angus Transportation, Inc. of California, with 11 years within the industry and is a Magna Cum Laude honors graduate of DeVry University in Pomona, CA with a bachelor's of science in business administration. They both are members of Freightliner's Team Run Smart, providing real-world advice about the trucking industry based on their professional expertise. Mr. Albert will share his thoughts on such topics as: fuel savings, modern-day trucking technology and advancement and industry regulations. As a driver of a CNG truck, Mr. Nevarez will discuss various issues such as: CNG operations, fuel mileage, safety and the future of compressed natural gas vehicles. Join the conversation as we take a look at how trucking technology can pave the way to advancement in many areas of the industry which can lead to "Running Smarter."

The President of the Association of Independent Property Brokers and Agents (AIPBA) took a bold new step at the recent Mid-America Trucking Show toward transparency in broker-trucker relations, addressing numerous industry problems such as e-logs, driver harassment, driver pay and ethics in the transportation industry. James Lamb has introduced the Small Business in Transportation Coalition to the trucking industry, which encourages the formation of new partnerships between truckers and brokers as members of the same small business supply chain team. Mr. Lamb is stating that transparency should be voluntary and left to market forces to embrace the new paradigm. He is willing to lead by example as serving as the General Manager of the newly formed brokerage firm: 12PL, as he continues to work toward building support for small business in transportation. As President also of DOT Authority, Mr. Lamb joins us as our special guest to discuss the "New Deal" and his push for small brokers to be more transparent in their businesses with truck drivers, as well as designing the trucking coalition in order to raise driver pay and improve safety compliance.

Our first show post MATS and a lot went on there, and it was not just about "pretty trucks." There is also a great deal of news within trucking and it is affecting drivers in a big way: ELD's (EOBR's), New Entrant Testing, Increased Fuel Efficiency, and the infamous truck driver shortage! Tonight we'll talk about it all (time permitting), so call in and let's hear your voice to the topics on our Open Forum broadcast. Call In Number: 347-826-9170.

The battle is over and the Affordable Care Act is indeed law. Now what? How will it affect those within the trucking industry? Many are faced with this question and will need to understand in order to make an informed decision prior to the March 31st deadline. Owner operators, company drivers, and trucking companies (who will be mandated in 2015 to provide coverage) will all need to know their options. Motor carriers, depending on the number of employees, will be required to offer health insurance. What about cost, is it affordable?  What other options do we have? What happens if you refuse coverage? How do you Calculate your AGI to see if you're eligible? What is the “On Exchange” and “Off Exchange?" What happens if carriers do not offer coverage to their employees? What will happen to those employees whose coverage is dropped by the employer? Even for those who disagree with the act, knowing the facts will help  to comprehend how this law will impact you, your family, and even you career. Regardless of how one feels about the Health Law, it is one's responsibility to make educated choices based on information from those who provide insurance for the health industry and actually have knowledge of the trucking industry. Tom Smith of CDL Consultant joins us as our special guest to share his knowledge and expertise in this serious and important decision-making.  

Are you ready to talk trucking? Some of the hottest topics such as Truck Driver Health, Fuel Efficiency technology and research, Forced Dispatch and CDL Training Standards are all on the table for our open forum, or whatever is on your mind to discuss. In addition, the FMCSA has published a notice requesting comments as it relates to CDL Training, so join us "LIVE" as we open up the lines to talk about anything trucking. What's on your mind?

Join us for our Open Forum as we focus on President Obama's order for the DOT and EPA to develop and issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) by March 2015 to increase fuel efficiency standards for big trucks, while also calling for technological innovations and alternate fuels. Joining us will be Mr. Samuel Burlum, CEO/President/Chairman ofExtreme Energy Solutions and Mr. Anthony Evans, Founder/COO of Onboard Oil Tech. What will this new order mean for Owner Operators? Will they be able to meet the financial obligations? How can truck drivers influence the NPRM and can Owner Operators, fleets, meet the standards now? Come join the conversation as our guests share their insight into how meeting higher fuel efficiency standards will have an impact on the future of trucking.

It's your chance to speak up and share your thoughts about trucking: Regulations, Sleep Apnea, CSA ( including the recent report by GAO ) The Highway Bill, Driver Pay, Driver Health, Recruiting Tactics, Whistleblowing, or even the infamous Truck Driver Shortage. Richard Wilson from TCRG consulting attended the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee (MCSAC) meeting. Feb 10-12th in in Alexandria, Va. Richard is known for actively addressing government issues that affect professional drivers and the trucking industry. He'll be joining us tonight as he shares what drivers can expect from FMCSA in 2014. Whatever it is....let's talk about it. Come join the conversation . . .

A lot of discussion concerning ELD’s has opened Pandora's box of trucker issues.  Strong to ELD opposition has led to many other discussions affecting drivers.  Among them are the Hours of Service and the 14hour clock, Trucker Wages, Federal Preemption of States Rights. ATA is at it again. Federal Preemption against Driver Wages https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiTWNjG4_kU Preemption failed to pass in the Omnibus bill, it was ATA's most recent of 5 Attempts since 2015. They are now attempting to include language in FAAAA Re-authorization bill Preemption update against Trucker Wages -The fight to be paid for all time U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX-36), attempted to relieve truckers from the negative effects of the ELD mandate which went into enforcement mode on April 1st. Babin Introduces Legislation to Improve Hours-of-Service Regulations  The Responsible and Effective Standards for Truckers (REST) Act, legislation that would modernize hours of service regulations for truck drivers. The REST Act would allow drivers to take one rest break per shift, for up to three consecutive hours. The single off-duty period would not be counted toward the driver’s 14-hour, on-duty allowance and would not extent the total, allowable drive limits. This leads us to the question, "Does Rest bill modify HOS to relieve drivers or allow them to now work a 17 hour day?" To be a part of the show call 347-826-9170

James Lamb is President of the Association of Independent Property Brokers and Agents (AIPBA) and a former New York State Department of Transportation Motor Carrier Investigator. Included in the Highway Bill, known as MAP-21 that was passed in 2012, is the act to raise the broker bond to $75,000. James Lamb has been fighting the act since day one. Mr. Lamb submitted a 10-page exemption request to the FMCSA that would relieve all property brokers and freight forwarders from the $75,000 bond provision within the trucking industry. The FMCSA accepted comments to the request which recently ended on January 26, 2014 and the AIPBA continues its work to have the bond repealed. Will the FMCSA override the requirement in accordance with their lawful exemption authority duly granted to them by Congress? Mr. Lamb joins us as our special guest to share their accomplishments and to bring us all up-to-date on the broker bond issue.

Open forum on Truth About Trucking "LIVE".

Diana Kerekes is a Master Life, Business and Success Coach and has been a Registered Nurse for 30 years. As a visiting nurse for many of those years, she understands the impact and the consequences of a patient not being able to reach a doctor when needed. As the daughter of a former 25 year trucker, she knew there had to be a better way for professional truckers to reach medical assistance while living life on the road. While working to make people understand the importance of preventive medicine, her work also consists of helping truck drivers realize that they can receive medical help, 24/7, even when out on the road, all through the magic of technology: Call a doc anytime. Through Call a Doc Anytime, truckers are able to "see" their doctors through several devices, including, web cam, phone, video or mobile application. Diana Kerekes joins us as our special guest to discuss the many benefits of Call a Doc Anytime, a breakthrough service that brings the doctor to the trucker.

Allen and Donna are back with their "OPEN FORUM" broadcast where any topic related to trucking and the professional truck driver is discussed. Come join the conversation!

Our edited version of our most recent broadcast featuring our interview (only) with John Ratzenberger as our special guest, discussing his promotion for his upcoming newest TV series: John Ratzenberger's American Made through Fund Anything. Catch the inteview on YouTube! Closing Song: "Big John's Coming to Town" by: AllenAyersProductions.

John Ratzenberger is a multi-Emmy-nominated actor and accomplished screenwriter, director, producer and author, best known for playing mail carrier Cliff Clavin on the long-running NBC sitcom “Cheers.” What many may not know, is that his father was a truck driver, giving John a deep respect and admiration for truckers and the job they do. On October 21, 2013, John launched a crowd source campaign with Donald Trump's FundAnything.com for his new television series John Ratzenberger’s American Made, where he will tour the country and spotlight some of the best American made products and manufacturers. Mr. Ratzenberger stops by to share some of his time with us to discuss his new series and how you can be a part of his campaign sharing of Fund Anything/American Made, win prizes and even appear on the show! Individuals can also see these companies and industry groups on the TV series Facebook page. Come join the conversation!  

Richard Wilson of TCRG Consulting joins us for this open discussion on the most pressing topics and issues within the U.S. trucking industry. One of our most popular shows, the "Open Forum" is where we open up the mic to you, the professional truck driver and you decide where the conversation leads: What will the affects be for Sleep Apnea and other sleep disorders since the President recently signed into Law legislation for FMCSA rulemaking (rather than guidance). Will it ensure Federal Standards for governing screening, testing, or treatment of individuals operating commercial motor vehicles ? Has anything positive come out of the recent trucker “Ride for the Constitution”? Will this create a movement for truckers to be more proactive? Detention Pay anyone? Is that something we’ve given up on? How about CDL training standards, where have those talks gone? Trucking topics? Come join the conversation!

Whatever happened to Legislation H.R. 756 pertaining to truck drivers' detention pay?  49 USC § 14103 states: "Whenever a shipper or receiver of property requires that any person who owns or operates a motor vehicle transporting property in interstate commerce be assisted in the loading or unloading of such vehicle, the shipper or receiver shall be responsible for providing such assistance or shall compensate the owner or operator for all costs associated with securing and compensating the person or persons providing such assistance." This section of the United States Code also was to be amended with the following: "Prohibits a shipper or receiver from detaining a person that operates a commercial motor vehicle without providing compensation for time detained beyond the maximum number of hours that the Secretary determines, by regulation." Sent to the House in February of 2011, a required study on detention time appears to have never been carried out and many motor carriers continue to save millions of dollars in wages every year off of the working trucker. Come join the discussion! What do you want to talk about?

For years truckers have been talking about a shutdown in attempts to display their grievances: Low pay, high fuel prices, CSA, EOBR’s, cross border trucking, detention pay,categorized as unskilled labor, the need for truck driver training standards, and continued increase in regulations. Now drivers are faced with a different situation, not a “shutdown”, but rather a convoy to Washington on October 11th - 13th.. The question is:  Why?  To display grievance within the trucking industry or to protest government corruption?  Truckers Ride for the Constitution is calling on a GENERAL STRIKE, asking all Americans to join the trucker convoy and stand with truckers by “doing nothing”  no commerce, no banking, no shopping. Will such a display help or hurt truckers? For years truckers have been trying to create awareness and get the support and empathy of the American people, but will this convoy create the kind of attention that they have sought so long for? Although such a strike is unlikely and the ride is now focused on political motives, join us as we discuss what may really be going on as truckers plan for a ride on Washington.

The challenges the trucking lifestyle presents to it's drivers are many. One of the largest of those challenges is staying healthy. The incident led Toby Bogard to create The 1,000,000 Pound Challenge, partnering with some great companies to offer some incredible prizes to the top three winners including: Grand Prize: 5 day/4 night vacation  to the Solmar Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, courtesy of: gocdljobs. Toby Bogard joins us to discuss all the details . . .

The effects of ELD mandate on Trucker Health & Safety 4-5-18 Thursday 6PM et 347-826-9170 The ELD mandate is causing an uproar among the truck driving community, ELD's are designed to enforce the FMCSA Hours-of-Service rule by synchronizing a vehicle engine to automatically record a truckers' driving time.The purpose is to increase highway safety by ensuring drivers do not drive more than their 11 hour limit or work more than their 14 hours allowed. Although the use of the ELD theoretically sounds like a great way to reduce driver fatigue, prevent employers from pushing their drivers to drive over their hours, prevent drivers from "cheating" on their log books ( to get more miles), and increase overall safety, there are MANY who disagree and believe the ELD mandate works in reverse and is actually detrimental to overall highway safety.  Tonight we'll address opposition to the ELD mandate and discuss why truckers are feeling rushed to beat the 14 hour clock and how it affecting their health and livelihood. Our guest Carolyn O'byrne, author of Gut Instinct and founder of LifeCoachService.net, will help explain the health risks when people feel continually pressured to do their job well while trying to earn a decent living. Call in to listen 347-826-9170 Call in to be a part of the show  347-826-9170  THEN press 1 on your keypad..  

The U.S. trucking industry is currently debating the pros and cons of mobile communication platforms as it relates to Company-Owned Personally Enabled devices (COPE) or to rely on the Bring Your Own Device platform, simply known as BYOD. Christian Schenk is Senior Vice President of product strategy and market growth for XRS Corporation, specializing in helping private and for-hire fleets use driver and vehicle data to improve every aspect of their operations. Mr. Schenk points out that mobile technology (BYOD) over traditional, bulky "onboard computers," is already here as nearly 90% of truck drivers currently have personal mobile devices in use. XRS is able to support more than 100 mobile devices within its portfolio, on four networks across the United States and Canada. Mr. Schenk joins us as our special guest to further discuss the XRS Mobile Communication platform, the facts behind the BYOD technology and why their platform is considered to be revolutionizing the industry.

Join Allen and Donna for another broadcast of "Open Forum" as the lines are open for discussions in all things trucking.

Singer/Songwriter, Nascar enthusiast, and professional truck driver Tony Justice of Tony Justice Music joins us as he updates us on his exploding career in the music industry. Tony’s latest CD, On the Road is sold at all Major Truck Plazas:  Pilot/Fling J, T/A Petro, Wilco Hess, and Loves. Along with being featured in numerous magazines, he performed for the 2012 Hollywood Pre-Grammy Awards Party and engages in numerous radio guests appearances.  Tony continues his music career while professionaly driving, performing and signing autographs at most of the largest truck shows across the country. We will discuss his newest upcoming album, "Apple Pie Moonshine" and he will bring us up-to-date on his recent Nashville trip, as well as other factors within his musical career, such as sharing the story on the T/A Truck Stop's newest menu item: the "Justice Burger!" Be the 5th caller into the show, and WIN an autographed copy of Tony's "On The Road" CD. Come join the converstation!

Attorney Rod Rehm founded Trucker Lawyers in 1998 but has been representing truckers for over 30 years. He has practiced workers’ compensation and personal injury law for over 40 years. His practice is with Rehm, Bennett & Moore, Attorneys at Law, P.C., L.L.O., in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska and in addition to workers’ compensation and personal injury, Rehm, Bennett & Moore attorneys also practice in the areas of trucking accidents, employment law, and Social Security Disability law. His law firm also often helps truckers nationwide through referrals to attorneys in their own state due to differences in state laws. Mr. Rehm joins us as our special guest and to take your calls as we discuss this specialized area of law and what you need to know as a professional truck driver.

Industry "experts" say that 100,000 new drivers are needed yearly to offset the truck driver shortage problem.  As the new hours of service rule kicks in, motor carriers continue to have a difficult time finding new hires with the main reason being the description, low pay and lifestyle of the profession. Truck driver turnover rate held at 90% in the fourth-quarter of 2012 as recruiters report the difficulty on finding those willing to do the OTR job.  In 2012, the average age for the professional trucker was 48, with 21% of CMV drivers being 55-65 years of age. New HOS rules, the CSA and continual regulations hiting the industry are being noticed by even would-be hires and they are not taking the jobs, even during a time of high unemployment. Just one topic we will touch on during this episode of "Open Lines" as well as topics you choose to discuss. Come join the conversation . . .

Allen and Donna opens up the lines once again on the Trucking Open Forum to let the callers decide on what trucking-related topic to discuss. Come join the conversation as we dedicate this show to Fred "The American Driver" Schaffner . . .

It's open forum on Truth About Trucking "LIVE" to discuss anything trucking: truck parking issue? Coon Rapids, Minnesota? New HOS rules? Pick the topic . . . what's on your mind?

Between June 4th-6th 2013, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance will be conducting its annual roadcheck with 10,000 inspectors across the United States. Inspectors will be paying special attention to possible HOS and Vehicle Safety violations pertaining to the FMCSA's Compliance, Safety and Accountability Program (CSA). Regulatory expert, Richard Wilson of Trans Products Tran Services joins us as our guest to discuss the 2013 CVSA Roadcheck and what professional CMV drivers can do to improve their chances of passing.

Samuel Burlum shares his most recent three-part series, "The War on Trucking" as we take a look inside the "war" that he believes is being waged on the American truck driver: Part I - Emissions Compliance Part II- 'Drivers Unwanted' Part III - The Battlegrounds He is the CEO/President/Chairman of Extreme Energy Solutions and has been interviewed on radio and television. He was an invited speaker for the World Green Energy Symposium in Washington, DC and was the recipient of the 2013 WGES NOVA Award at Hunter College in New York City. Mr. Burlum joins us as our special guest as we breakdown all three segments of the series and what he sees as being the future for the professional truck driver.

Trucking employment law attorney, Paul Taylor joins us as our special guest to further discuss the legal rights of professional truck drivers. Topics will include drivers' rights under the Surface Transportation Assistance Act as it relates to prohibiting motor carriers from retaliating against commercial drivers for filing complaints regarding violations of the commercial vehicle safety regulations. We will also discuss recent cases and various legal concerns such as if law enforcement officers have the right to search the sleeper of the CMV. Mr. Taylor specializes in the following areas of trucking law: refusal to drive, commercial truck lease disputes, drug and alcohol testing and the DAC report. His practice is with the Law Office of Taylor & Associates, Ltd., in Burnsville, Minnesota through the Truckers Justice Center which focuses its legal practice on employment law for commercial truck drivers across the nation. Closing Song: When the Big Rig's Don't Roll by Allen & Ayers Productions.

Sat 3-3-18 6PM ET  Call in # 347-826-9170 On 12-12-17 U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) & Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced the Stop Underrides Act, S. 2219 legislation. Then U.S. Representatives Steve Cohen (D-TN) and Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA) introduced the companion bill in the House, H.R. 4622 An ‘underride crash’ is when a car slides under the body of a large truck, such as a semi-trailer, during an accident. When these accidents happen, a car’s safety features are not able to protect passengers because most of the car slides under the trailer, and the truck crashes straight through the windows and into the passengers.  The bill was originally drafted by our guests tonight, Marianne Karth and Lois Durso. Both Marianne and Lois have lost children due to underride crashes. Marianne & husband Jerry lost their 2 daughters, AnnaLeah and Mary in 2013, and Lois lost her daughter Roya in 2004. The bill was originally called the Roya, AnnaLeah and Mary Comprehensive Underride Protection Act of 2017 or the  RAMCUP Act of 2017—now known as STOP Underrides Act. We'll discuss solutions which can prevent underride crashes accounting for at least 300+ deaths per year. Show will include discussions regarding rear & sideguards. Few people realize that the 1969 Federal Register recorded that the Department of Transportation intended, after further study, to extend underride protection to the sides of large trucks. Discussion includes:Costs,added weight,decreased Insurance costs,Loading docks,Axle/Tandems, distracted driving. For more info stopunderrides@gmail.com  www.StopUnderRides.org

Recent trucking news and discussions have focused on truck parking issues, driver safety, cdl training, truck driver pay and jobs. We open up the lines for our Trucking Open Forum to discuss anything trucking, where you decide the topic. Come join the conversation! Closing song: Peterbilt 379 by Tony Justice

Professional CMV drivers were earning more money in 1980 than they are today and they have seen truck driver wages fall by 40% during the past 33 years. With no adjustment for inflation or other such economic factors, and by figuring in total number of hours worked per week, the majority of drivers end up earning an hourly wage that is far below the minimum wage. Jeff Barker is an 18 year OTR veteran with over two million miles. A former heavy truck and transport refrigeration mechanic and truck owner-operator, he began writing for  Land Line Magazine in 2005 and is founder of the Ride and Roll Program, a driver health and wellness plan. Joining us as our guest, Jeff will discuss the post 1980 deregulation effects, the public image of the American trucker, why truck driver pay has not significantly increased over the past three decades and what he sees as the root causes and solutions to these problems. Closing song: "Down the Road" by Rob Anthony.

Marc Mayfield spent 10 years trucking over-the-road, logging 1.2 million miles and is the author of"In The Driver's Seat: Interstate Trucking - A Journey." Featured in Overdrive Magazine by Senior Editor, Todd Dills, the book chronicles his life on the road from 1991 to 2001, with his goal being to provide the public and main stream media with a true picture of the long-haul trucker and the sacrifices they make to keep America moving. A straight-forward and honest insight into the world of OTR trucking, Marc joins us as our special guest to discuss his book, his triumps and tragedies while on the road, his thoughts on the industry today and the advise he would give to newcomers just starting out. In the Driver’s Seat: Interstate Trucking – a Journey. - See more at: http://www.overdriveonline.com/long-haul-literary-former-owner-operators-new-book/#sthash.HTl8cHgX.dpufIn the Driver’s Seat: Interstate Trucking – a Journey. - See more at: http://www.overdriveonline.com/long-haul-literary-former-owner-operators-new-book/#sthash.HTl8cHgX.dpuf