Archive for January, 2011

Truck Driver Negligence

January 27th, 2011

On highways in America, there are thousands of big trucks that crisscross the country bringing goods to a variety of stores and industries. These large trucks have to share the road with other smaller cars, trucks, and SUVs. Accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, including overloaded trucks, bad weather, and product malfunctions. However, collisions can also happen because of negligent driving on the part of the truck drivers themselves.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, it is highly recommended that you speak with a skilled and knowledgeable attorney in your area. Competent attorneys can discuss your case with you and figure out if negligence or carelessness may have caused the accident that resulted in your injuries. You should not have to bear the burden of mounting medical bills and lost wages if someone else’s carelessness or recklessness is to blame.

Examples of Truck Driver Negligence

Serious accidents can happen when the drivers of 18-wheelers become reckless or careless when they drive. Trucks are very large vehicles and are very difficult to maneuver and maintain control of, even when traffic and weather conditions are ideal. Some unfortunately common examples of truck driver negligence include the following:

  • Driving too fast when the roads are crowded with vehicles
  • Driving too long without sleep
  • Failing to watch the road
  • Driving while intoxicated
  • Talking on a cell phone or texting while driving

Drivers of large commercial trucks could also make other mistakes and errors while driving that could result in an accident. If you have been involved in an accident that was caused by truck driver error, you may be eligible for compensation for your accident-related expenses.

Significantly Improve Diesel Truck Fuel Efficiency

January 26th, 2011

Though the costs of truck transport continue to increase, the profit margins to transport companies remains stagnant or worse. Part of this is due to the cost of diesel fuel that is projected to increase even more in the near future. This makes fuel efficiency an ever more important issue for drivers and companies who want to remain profitable. Cutting fuel costs significantly can be done immediately by paying attention to a few simple rules.

The first way to reduce diesel fuel usage is to slow down. A truck traveling at 75 mph uses 50% more fuel than one covering the same distance at 60 mph. That’s right, 50%. Additionally, driving at 75 mph emits 100% more carbon monoxide, an additional 50% in hydrocarbons, and 31% more nitrogen oxide pollutants. Slowing down doesn’t just save on fuel costs and emissions, it also saves lives on the highways.

If you stop for more than three minutes, stop the engine to reduce idling time. Excessive idling can add to fuel costs by as much as 50% and can cause costly damage that shortens the engine life and increases maintenance expenses. It can also reduce the life of engine oil by as much as 75% further adding to unnecessary costs.

Be diligent about vehicle maintenance. Proper engine maintenance keeps it working efficiently to reduce fuel usage, reduce emissions, and reduces overall repair costs. Tires that are properly inflated improve fuel mileage while improving performance and increasing tire life for added savings. Get quality used diesel truck parts when possible to save on costs.

Following these suggestions alone will save measurably on diesel truck operating costs to significantly improve the profit margin as well as add to the safe operation of the vehicle and reduced toxic emissions.

Truck Rental Service

January 25th, 2011

While you get a new address, you also have to transfer your entire household or office belongings to the new place. There are several companies who are engaged in the business of transporting stuff from one place to another. The relocating process by itself is often very stressful and exhausting. The moving companies seek to cut your nervous tension and also help you make a safe relocation.

People always look for the cheapest truck rental service available. Different corporations offer assistance at different prices. There are a couple of things that affect the rates of these firms. You will frequently find that the professionals are busier in the summer than in other seasons. Thus, if possible plan relocation in the winter as rates may be relatively lower.

Transportation charges also fluctuate as per the size of the firm you hire, its strategy and the distance of travel. Most relocating business providers offer integrated shifting facility. They offer to dismantle, pack, load, transport, deliver and also unload and unpack your goods. Prices vary as per the quality of the aid rendered. Hiring charges also depend upon the condition of the van you want to hire.

Interestingly, organizations today use the Global Positioning System to keep track en route. This helps them decide the best roads to take to deliver your goods on time.

There are a few things you can do to keep the hiring charges least. You must feel free to ask the company about any discount or coupons they have to offer. You should also contact them in advance to book your auto. You can save time by talking to them over the phone or by surfing on the web online. You can even compare the quotes online to discover the most economical van rental for your relocation.