View Full Version : Texas....no more idling
zipy46
08-19-2009, 01:44 AM
As of Sept 1 there can be no more idling of big trucks anywhere in Texas.
My question is....why cant drivers begin some sort of class action suit
against this sort of treatment. :confused:
It was 108 Fahrenheit in Laredo,TX a few trips ago...the cab would most certainly exceed 140
on the inside without a/c.
Why don't drivers organize against this :confused:
BigBird01
08-19-2009, 01:53 AM
haha Probably wouldn't help... The people that make these rules don't care about humans. But get an animal and Idle all you want! At least that is how it was a few years ago in some states. If you had some sort of animal you could idle your trucks. They believe in human cruelty not animal cruelty haha.
Part Time Dweller
08-19-2009, 01:57 AM
Buy an APU or get a room.
As of Sept 1 there can be no more idling of big trucks anywhere in Texas.
My question is....why cant drivers begin some sort of class action suit
against this sort of treatment. :confused:
It was 108 Fahrenheit in Laredo,TX a few trips ago...the cab would most certainly exceed 140
on the inside without a/c.
Why don't drivers organize against this :confused:
This should be a good lawsuit for OOIDA to pursue. They get away with this type of legislation because drivers don't take the time to write or call their representatives. One reason so many states are passing these laws is due to federal money. They either get more federal money by passing such legislation or have funds reduced if they don't. States need to find their backbone and stand up to these special interest groups and the federal government. If you don't like the laws they pass then it is up to each of us to contact our representatives to let them know how these law will affect us. One thing that might help reduce or eliminate some of this type of legislation is to file a lawsuit against the individuals responsible for this legislation. I am not talking about the state or city but the individuals. If nothing else it will get their attention. All you need to is win one suit in court and a precedent will be set. Once a precedent is set then you can go to other states and do the same thing and cite case law to support your case. The only way to stop this type of ridiculous laws is to hit them in their pocketbook. If you hit them personally then you will get their attention. If it becomes too expensive then they will make changes. Frankly, I am surprised the Teamsters or other unions have not taken this on. It unfairly discriminates against truckers and puts their personal safety in jeopardy. Little has been heard from truckers when they pass these laws.
mike3fan
08-19-2009, 02:59 AM
Yeah right, I was in Texas this week. There is no way thats gonna work.
Has anyone ever recieved one of these tickets? Not someone you know but personally?
zipy46
08-19-2009, 03:04 AM
Yeah right, I was in Texas this week. There is no way thats gonna work.
Has anyone ever recieved one of these tickets? Not someone you know but personally?
No i do not know of anyone getting one in person...
But personally ....I would not pay such a ticket anyways...
:rofl:
If they decided to go into a truckstop and start writing tickets they could write about $50,000 in just one truck stop at any given time. I don't see how these laws can be enforceable. These people like to talk about safety yet they pass these stupid laws which would prevent drivers from getting needed rest so that they can drive safely. They need to have IQ tests for these offices before any of them should be allowed to run for office.
franwake13
08-19-2009, 04:13 AM
i wonder how that law breaks down, if ur a company driver and cant do anything about a apu, then wtf are u suposed to do?? pa is kinda like texas, they say u only get three mins of idol time..............
Jackrabbit379
08-19-2009, 05:00 AM
That's the silliest thing I've ever heard.
Even if they do enforce it, they couldn't. An officer telling a driver that he can't idle in the summer would be like the pot calling the kettle black. I have respect for Texas DPS, but I'd like to see a DOT man tell me I can't idle in the summer time. I'd have to tell him to roll his winders down, and turn off the A/C. :p I'd dare him to try.
Kevin0915
08-19-2009, 05:05 AM
i wonder how that law breaks down, if ur a company driver and cant do anything about a apu, then wtf are u suposed to do?? pa is kinda like texas, they say u only get three mins of idol time..............
American Idol?
zipy46
08-19-2009, 05:15 AM
...Just idle the truck
When the :bow: cop wakes you up and tells you to turn it off...
Turn it off...:roll:
Soon as he drives away...
Start it back up and go to sleep...:rofl::rofl:
...Repeat the cycle as needed.
zipy46
08-19-2009, 05:19 AM
Freedom is fun...
Everybody loves to fu** with it :smokin:
Hawkjr
08-19-2009, 05:36 AM
Everywhere i see a no idling police i still idle!! Wal Mart is supposedly big on no idle but i've never been told to shut the truck off... In Jersey off the turnpike at travel plazas during the day ran my truck and never told to turn it off.. In Maine, it has a policy from 6 AM to 8 PM for no Idle.. At 12 PM every single truck was idling except for a few when i walked across the parking lot
I've only seen one place tell us to shut the truck off and that was in Baltimore and i can see why since it was near a residential area... Honestly speaking, if i was told to shut off the truck i would do and as soon as he/her went away i would crank it right back up!! Does the people know how does it feel to be in a BUNKER basically with the Windows Down and a couple of BS vents open while its 100 + outside including the heat index!! Like i said, the day i get a ticket, i will go to court for it and i would gladly let the judge know i was doing it for my safety and others that share the road with me to get a good day/night sleep and if that's a problem then gladly send a DOT officers to spend the day with me on a hot day thru my 10 hour break without idling truck and see how well i'll drive well into my day after my clock starts!! In my mind a sleepy and tired driver is just as dangerous as a drunk driver!!
The only way to solve this problem is the government (which i dont see happening) forcing APU's to be made onto every truck from this point out!! Otherwise this a stupid law that is endangering the public and fellow truck drivers!!
Hawkjr
08-19-2009, 05:37 AM
Buy an APU or get a room.
Hmmm... so company drivers suppose to get a room every day/night??
zipy46
08-19-2009, 06:00 AM
i just had a vision of Peter Fonda in easy rider :smokin:
Malaki86
08-19-2009, 03:32 PM
Let's just say a company driver is sitting in Laredo, TX during the day with temps of 100+ and he does shut the truck down. Within an hour, he's calling for an ambulance because of heat stroke/exhaustion. The company they drive for won't pay for IdleAire (if it's available where they're sitting) nor will the company pay for a motel.
The question is: Can this be charged to workers comp?
Jackrabbit379
08-19-2009, 05:08 PM
You don't have to be in Laredo to be in 100+ temp. You can be in my backyard. :p
Malaki, I would think that the company or their insurance should be stepping up in that kind of situation.
Kevin0915
08-19-2009, 06:52 PM
Hmmm... so company drivers suppose to get a room every day/night??
Of course, we're all rich, didn't you know that??
Malaki86
08-19-2009, 07:16 PM
Which company do you work for again, Kevin??? I sure as hell know I'm not getting rich where I'm at.
zipy46
08-19-2009, 07:27 PM
It would stand to reason that it is in the intrest of :bow: Public Safety that
a driver get his or her proper rest before beginning a new day. :)
Flyerfan4life
08-19-2009, 07:31 PM
Stupid laws like this should be atleast be put up to public vote. You know most cops idle their cars and run the A/C and I bet this type of boneheaded law doesnt apply to them. How many politicians do you think could survive in a truck cab in a hot climate. I get more disgusted with our politicians every day . The stupid cash for clunkers program is another stupid idea, why not send people facing foreclosure $ 4500.00 so they have a shot at staying in their homes instead of giving folks that arent hurting finacially an op to buy a new car. Sorry for the rant folks but I am getting real sick of all this go green BS.
Malaki86
08-19-2009, 08:51 PM
Hell, 99% of the politicians couldn't handle a 72 degree day while driving nonstop across Iowa or Kansas with absolutely no traffic, let alone sitting in an oven in the middle of a parking lot filled with a hundred other trucks for 10-18 hours in the baking sun.
Mr. Ford95
08-19-2009, 09:01 PM
We need to all ban together and let our voices be heard by DOT and the politicians but that will never happen. Unfortunately it will take deadly crashes piling up before these idiot politicians realize they goofed on this type of law.
Malaki86
08-19-2009, 10:23 PM
or after they pull 15-20 guys out of their non-idling trucks because they died from the heat...
Part Time Dweller
08-19-2009, 11:44 PM
Hmmm... so company drivers suppose to get a room every day/night??
If he company won't provide an APU, then they should supply a room.
But unfortunately, that will never happen, as they give a rats ass if their underpaid indentured mobile homeless servants get good rest or get a ticket for idling.
Orangetxguy
08-19-2009, 11:58 PM
We need to all band together and let our voices be heard by DOT and the politicians but that will never happen. Unfortunately it will take deadly crashes piling up before these idiot politicians realize they goofed on this type of law.
Mr. Ford has it right. WE all do need to band together and make our voices and opinions heard. He is also right that it will never happen.
The DOT needs to hear from more than 60% of all driver's, whom operate OTR trucks equipped with a sleeper berth, and use that sleeper berth to comply with hours of service regulations. The drivers need to request a review of this regulation (§393.77), which was written in 1932 and has had little revision since that time. Drivers need to make it clear to the DOT, that in 1932 there was no "Air Conditioning" available for "Trucks", hence there had been, until now, no need to revise this section of the FMCSR's.
Now, with so many cities, counties and states directly targeting trucks, with anti-idle regulations, and including sleeper berth periods in their anti-idle legislation, WE need to get the USDOT to revise the regulation and clarify the use of "Air Conditioning" and "Cab Heaters" as a safety feature, as pertains to Driver health, Driver safety, and Public safety.
Hearing from a super-majority of (more than 85%) all drivers, (OTR sleeper berth driver's as well as local day cab drivers), would be a plus.
Section 393.77 deals only with cab heaters and defrosters. It does not directly deal with air conditioning or excessive cab heat. IF the DOT worries about winter conditions....it stands to reason that they also worry about summer conditions.
Another thing about section 393.77. When it was written, most trucks were only daycabs, and if a driver was out on "The Road" in that period of our history, those drivers were sleeping in either a motel room located on the route, or in a bunkroom at a terminal along the trucks route.
Part 393: Parts and accessories necessary for safe operation - Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/administration/fmcsr/fmcsrruletext.aspx?chunkKey=090163348002393a)
Just something for all drivers to think about.
Oh yes.....In order to get anybody to listen to you, your statement needs to be clear, concise and well thought out, with proper grammar and spelling.
Just sayin.
Part Time Dweller
08-20-2009, 02:31 AM
Hearing from a super-majority of (more than 85%) all drivers, (OTR sleeper berth driver's as well as local day cab drivers), would be a plus.
What makes you think day cab drivers give **** whether a dweller can idle or not?
Hawkjr
08-20-2009, 02:45 AM
What makes you think day cab drivers give **** whether a dweller can idle or not?
There's plenty of day cabs that have to wait 3 hours plus that come to my distribution center to get unloaded... I think those guys would give ****!!
and not to mention are precious LTL line haul guys that take their little sleep breaks... i think they give a **** also
Kranky
08-20-2009, 02:55 AM
There's plenty of day cabs that have to wait 3 hours plus that come to my distribution center to get unloaded... I think those guys would give ****!!
and not to mention are precious LTL line haul guys that take their little sleep breaks... i think they give a **** also
our
:cool::smokin:
Part Time Dweller
08-20-2009, 03:33 AM
There's plenty of day cabs that have to wait 3 hours plus that come to my distribution center to get unloaded... I think those guys would give ****!!
and not to mention are precious LTL line haul guys that take their little sleep breaks... i think they give a **** also
Waiting 3 hours or taking a nap in a day cab with the windows open aside, they still go home to a nice home with heat and air, I doubt they lose much sleep over those who chose to live in a box who can't idle.
Orangetxguy
08-20-2009, 03:51 AM
What makes you think day cab drivers give **** whether a dweller can idle or not?
Yeah..I know...there are guyz who could a crap less about one thing or another. Yet...they are affected by idling regulations just the same.
Where did you hear this about sept 1?
I went looking on the Texas websites, can't find anything about it.
Texasspider
08-20-2009, 10:34 PM
Where did you hear this about sept 1?
I went looking on the Texas websites, can't find anything about it.
Here. (http://http://www.landlinemag.com/todays_news/Daily/2009/Aug09/081709/081709-01.htm)
I had double check because (living in Houston) I just read the pdf from the state about all the new Sept 1st laws and that wan't one of them. The reason being because it's not a new law, simply a exemption that they let expire.
No matter how, there's no denying the sh***ness of it all.
DaveP
08-21-2009, 01:30 AM
Holy crap spideeman...that's in GERMAN...
Texasspider
08-21-2009, 02:44 AM
Holy crap spideeman...that's in GERMAN...
I got a dead link when I clicked on it. Huh...I will try again and see what happens. This time I will preview and test the link! And I won't try to be all fancy this time.
http://www.landlinemag.com/todays_news/Daily/2009/Aug09/081709/081709-01.htm
It works!!
jagerbomber3.0
08-21-2009, 05:57 AM
Maybe I have just have the wrong idea but I kind of looked at Texas as one of the last sensible states that still believed in freedom and most things that made and used common sense,Am i the only one that would have put Texas down as one of the last states to do this? It kind of surprises me. Has Texas been infiltrated by those kind of people?
Orangetxguy
08-21-2009, 03:44 PM
Maybe I have just have the wrong idea but I kind of looked at Texas as one of the last sensible states that still believed in freedom and most things that made and used common sense,Am i the only one that would have put Texas down as one of the last states to do this? It kind of surprises me. Has Texas been infiltrated by those kind of people?
:eek1: :pissedoff: :pissedoff: :angryblue: Politicians are all the same all across the country! Idiots!!
Bumper
08-21-2009, 06:48 PM
I was in Bakersfield CA at the Flying J watching guys getting these stupid tickets. They weren't getting them from the CHP though. I was AQMD. Air Quality Management District that was handing them out. They drove around in an old Ford Aerostar Van.
They watch your truck idle for the 5 minutes and then write the citation. They either pound on your door and give it to you or just leave it in the drivers door window.
Its like a parking ticket. You dont have to sign it. At least that is what I saw.
freebirdrfd
08-22-2009, 01:39 AM
here's an idea,,,,,,,,,, don't go to states that inforce idleing laws. :cool:
The only way to solve this problem is the government (which i dont see happening) forcing APU's to be made onto every truck from this point out!! Otherwise this a stupid law that is endangering the public and fellow truck drivers!!
Not all states will allow you to have an apu. Some must have extra filters or something to be legal to use in their state. That is why some of the larger carriers have taken a wait and see attitude with the apu's. As of now they may come up with something else to replace them. I can see a major class action lawsuit against some of these states if they ever decided to go crazy with writing these tickets. They may just write the wrong guy one and find themselves on the wrong end of a gun. The only way to stop this from continuing to happen is to make it more expensive for them to write the tickets than it does for any profit. This has little to do with pollution and EVERYTHING to do with revenue generation.
zipy46
08-22-2009, 02:34 AM
Seriously fellas...
Lets at least figure someway to make and file a collective complaint
with the Federal DOT against the major cities involved.
as to this delima and have it registered into their records.
I am going to chart accurate temperature recording at various time of the night and day as to the inside temp of the cab so they
also can be make public and included in the complaint and ask that the rule makers come and experience the real world first hand.
Also I am attempting to bring it to the attention of the TV media if possible...
They might see it worthy of an expose of some kind...they love to scare people.
If you or I are not getting proper and comfortable rest then these rigs don't need to be on the road....that is the Issue that needs to be exposed....Public Safety is at stake here.
I have a few day off between jobs and will contact OOIDA and maybe they will talk me
through the steps involved in getting the ball rolling.
Thanks for reading :)
repete
08-22-2009, 03:04 AM
This doesn't directly effect me BUT I do care about it. I remember very well how hot it gets in that box with the sun beating down it. After reading some of this post I went and picked up my truck and who do I see? Three local sheriff deputies so I cranked up my truck and while it was cooling down I walked over and asked if they knew anything about NY idle law. Two of the three had no idea and the third remembered seeing a sign somewhere. They were concerned about the vehicle being stolen if it was left running and unattended. I explained about our ten hour break and sleeping blah blah.. aferward they all agreed the idle law is "dumbest thing I've heard in a long time".
I then went looking for one of the CMV enforcement guys and asked him. He said unless the get a complaint about the noise they don't actively enforce it. They ALL agreed that there's more important things for them to do!
Hope this helps, BTW This is in Rochester NY, Yeah I know it's a long way to TX
You need to write to your state representatives and governor in states where they have these stupid laws. Perhaps this is something that MADD and some of these left wing lobbing groups should address if they are actually interested in safety, as they claim. They could actually have an issue that would be valid for a change.
States who pass and enforce these anti idling laws are in direct violation of federal law concerning drivers getting 10 hours rest. I still think a good class action lawsuit is in order in this case. All you need to do is win one against a single state. You set a legal precedent and then can go after the other states. These types of laws are discriminatory against truckers in addition to be in violation of federal law. Media attention would certainly help in changing these laws. Contacting federal and state representatives could also help. I believe some of them came to pass due to federal funds. Unless states met certain environmental air standards they could lose federal funds. If I remember correctly, that is the reason they began to put anti idling laws into effect in the first place. It does little, if any actual reduction of pollutants and puts the general public and drivers at risk. States could have contingent liability for any fatalities or accidents if it was due to lack of rest from not being able to be comfortable while sleeping.
zipy46
08-22-2009, 08:36 PM
Would it have any weight if I called the Federal Marshalls Dept and
asked what a driver should do if he is being asked/coerced/pressured/etc to
break a DOT mandate ? :confused:
zipy46
08-22-2009, 08:48 PM
Its only a war (on truckers) if and when they begin to fight back. :thumbsup:
(That's gonna be my new motto)
69XKE
08-22-2009, 09:03 PM
Not that it will do any good, but I e-mailed the Texas governor's office late last week to express my displeasure at this assinine rule.
I kept it professional, but made no bones about how I felt about their decision.
zipy46
08-22-2009, 09:14 PM
Contact the Governor:
State your case:
Office of the Governor - Rick Perry - Contact (http://governor.state.tx.us/contact/)
:)
zipy46
08-22-2009, 09:47 PM
I sent my letter to Gov Perry. :lol2:
Hopefully he will stand up for the common man and not bend to Federal pressure.
Perhaps Texas and some of these other states need to secede and tell the feds to take their rules elsewhere. If enough people called and emailed the governors and state representatives it could turn things around. I think the main problem is that drivers have been silent. We assume that things will work out and we don't want to take the time to let our voices be heard. You see the net result with all these laws.
zipy46
08-22-2009, 11:05 PM
Perhaps Texas and some of these other states need to secede and tell the feds to take their rules elsewhere. If enough people called and emailed the governors and state representatives it could turn things around. I think the main problem is that drivers have been silent. We assume that things will work out and we don't want to take the time to let our voices be heard. You see the net result with all these laws.
Did you contact the Gov :confused:
...many are beginning to write him :thumbsup:
I posted his contact page.
Also i requested a response with my letter.
I made it clear that in the interest of public safety and my needed rest required to operate a 40 ton truck that I will idle if the temp deems it necessary to get a good night rest regardless of the city ordinances.
Also i stated that it was in violation of common sense to do this to drivers.
zipy46
08-22-2009, 11:07 PM
Perhaps Texas and some of these other states need to secede and tell the feds to take their rules elsewhere. If enough people called and emailed the governors and state representatives it could turn things around. I think the main problem is that drivers have been silent. We assume that things will work out and we don't want to take the time to let our voices be heard. You see the net result with all these laws.
We have been beat down intellectually and conditioned to rely on others to stand up for us...
Essentially we have all been neutered :hellno:
Part Time Dweller
08-22-2009, 11:14 PM
Would it have any weight if I called the Federal Marshalls Dept and
asked what a driver should do if he is being asked/coerced/pressured/etc to
break a DOT mandate ? :confused:
That would be extremely helpful. Do that, and please, post their response. :thumbsup:
zipy46
08-22-2009, 11:36 PM
That would be extremely helpful. Do that, and please, post their response. :thumbsup:
I have a few days off here between jobs...so i may take advantage of it and try to
get the big guys to field a few questions...
I will post any response's they may offer.
But i do suspect they have 'heard it all' over the years.
belpre122
08-23-2009, 01:05 AM
Yeah...........I went ahead and skipped forward from page 1 so I could provide a relevant response for all of you.....
Here's the deal Lucille. Texas is just following suit like California and a few others like New York and Joisey........in taking in active part in "just saying no" to the uber problem of 40 ton monsters aimlessly wandering their territories while emitting unbelievable amounts of air and noise pollution. (just for starters);)
Texas is simply taking an active stance. Others soon to follow. Drivers shouldn't be couped up in those coffins for days on end. If these carriers are such "logistical professionals" they should be more than capable of scheduling a driver in to a hotel for the night for proper rest??????:eek1:
Not some sleazy, filthy truck stop after a 14 hour day of work.
Reform is on the way! Apparently government is leading the charge this time. Since (we) as drivers can't seem to agree on anything.
I say that it can't come soon enough! So long coolie carriers!
Orangetxguy
08-23-2009, 01:59 AM
Perhaps Texas and some of these other states need to secede and tell the feds to take their rules elsewhere. If enough people called and emailed the governors and state representatives it could turn things around. I think the main problem is that drivers have been silent. We assume that things will work out and we don't want to take the time to let our voices be heard. You see the net result with all these laws.
"G"---------Truck idling laws have not been passed by the Fed's. They have all been passed by state legislator's and signed by those State's governor.
Only the truck's cab heater is covered by Federal statute, and that says that the heater must be operable and not allow carbon-monoxide into the cab.
Trucking Company Management and truck Drivers ALL need to get on the same page, and take the idling issue directly to the DOT departments which cover driver health and truck safety. Those are the FMCSA and the Federal Highway Administration, as well as the National Transportation Safety Board. That is were it needs to start.
A driver being unable to get the mandated rest, as the HOS regulations currently exist, in a comfortable heated or air conditioned cab, is not covered.
The NTSB is the DOT body which handles safety issues. Heating and Air Conditioning inside the cab of the truck should fall within their realm, just as airliner safety and railroad safety does.
It should be brought to the attention of the Department Heads at the DOT, the FMCSA, the FHA and the NTSB, that driver health (this legislation; Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act; A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) is where driver health is currently the HOT topic) includes a comfortable sleeping environment, as defined by the individual, and his or her personal comfort level requirement, not by a clueless State Legislator.
Driver's need to get the DOT on their side, and the best way to do that, is to LOBBY in an appropriate, and intelligent manner.
Here is the link to safetealu;
Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/safetealu/)
Something else worth looking over can be seen here;
NTSB - Most Wanted (http://www.ntsb.gov/recs/mostwanted/medical_certification.htm)
It is incumbent upon us to inform the DOT that hypothermia and heat exhaustion affect driver health and well being.
Now...How many CAD members, and how many CAD Lurkers, are willing to step up to the plate, and write a cohesive letter to all of the DOT departments I have mentioned, as well as to their Congressional delegation (2 US Senators plus their local US Congress-person)??
If we as truck drivers want to do something in our own defense....THAT is where WE have to and must start.
Instead of doing something sensible, as I have just suggested though, we as truck drivers will continue to sit on our hands and :argue: :argue: :argue:
just sayin. :banghead:
Oh yeah.......another point that could be made to all of the Congress critters. Turning off the heat and air conditioning in ALL FEDERAL, STATE, COUNTY and CITY buildings, not directly used for PUBLIC HEALTH (re: Hospitals), would save the American Taxpayers countless millions of dollars each and every day, and would have a direct effect on "Greening" the environment.
Let them open their windows!!! :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
like that is gonna happen
Orangetxguy
08-23-2009, 02:05 AM
Yeah...........I went ahead and skipped forward from page 1 so I could provide a relevant response for all of you.....
Here's the deal Lucille. Texas is just following suit like California and a few others like New York and Joisey........in taking in active part in "just saying no" to the uber problem of 40 ton monsters aimlessly wandering their territories while emitting unbelievable amounts of air and noise pollution. (just for starters);)
Texas is simply taking an active stance. Others soon to follow. Drivers shouldn't be couped up in those coffins for days on end. If these carriers are such "logistical professionals" they should be more than capable of scheduling a driver in to a hotel for the night for proper rest??????:eek1:
Not some sleazy, filthy truck stop after a 14 hour day of work.
Reform is on the way! Apparently government is leading the charge this time. Since (we) as drivers can't seem to agree on anything.
I say that it can't come soon enough! So long coolie carriers!
Sorry Gary...........I ONE UP-PED you!!!! :lol2: :lol2: :lol2: :lol2:
Malaki86
08-23-2009, 02:18 AM
The anti-idling laws and the lack of needed rest caused by it would be an EXCELLENT piece for a major news broadcast, such as Dateline. Something where they actually go to different locations, show the temperatures inside of a truck in southern Texas in August with no A/C and Rochester, NY in January with the truck shut down.
"G"---------Truck idling laws have not been passed by the Fed's. They have all been passed by state legislator's and signed by those State's governor.
I may have not been clear in what I stated earlier. The feds get states to go along with some of these rules by withholding federal funds for such things as infrastructure or other pet projects wanted by states.
You make some excellent points, Orangetxguy. We all need to make an effort to take action. It doesn't take that long to write a letter or make a phone call or both. I have done it on many occasions about issues that are important to me. It doesn't do any good to complain to one another. We need to address our concerns to our legislators. I think that getting in touch with the DOT is also a good idea. Just look at what MADD and the other special interest groups have been able to accomplish with their lobbying effort concering logs and hos rules. In fact, perhaps we should bring that to their attention and see if they might want to pitch in. Had many of us taken action earlier we may not have some of these laws on the books. It is time to take action. Our health and well being depend on it.
jburd
08-23-2009, 12:49 PM
haha Probably wouldn't help... The people that make these rules don't care about humans. But get an animal and Idle all you want! At least that is how it was a few years ago in some states. If you had some sort of animal you could idle your trucks. They believe in human cruelty not animal cruelty haha.
Yep always carry an animal or an illegal......they care about Illegals in trailers or boxcars also....
I idle anyway...to darn hot.I'm not gonna have heat stroke for 25 cents or 25 bucks per mile.
DaveP
08-23-2009, 01:05 PM
A fellow driver (lease/op) was sitting outside his drop last year in NY at 3am in -10 trying to sleep.
A bored security guard came out and woke him up to tell him "you can't idle you're truck"...
He said "It's -10 out there and I AM idling my truck AND trying to sleep...now go away!"
Guard "I'll call the cops"
Driver "Call the GD cops...NOW GO AWAY"
30 minutes later a NY town cop woke him up..."You can't idle your truck here"
Driver "It's -10 degrees...I'm trying to sleep and my truck IS going to idle because I'm not going to freeze to death which is what would happen if I go to sleep in -10 temperatures"
Cop "I'll have to write you a ticket"
Driver "Write the ticket...THEN LEAVE ME THE HELL ALONE, I'M TRYING TO SLEEP"
He only got a warning...AND he idled his truck.
scrapmetal
08-23-2009, 01:29 PM
Truckin aint fun no mo!All these regulations and lower pay.I guess I'm on my way out.There is no respect among others.I'm embarrassed to be a truck driver.These pukes remind me of that pig whom took Kevin Cosner out to his post on Dancing With Wolves.With know morels and respect in the world we are not going to excel!
zipy46
08-23-2009, 07:04 PM
Im going out in a big way if they mess with me...
It destiny that I become a martyr for my fellow truckers...
What Jimi Hendrix was to guitar...I will be to diesel emissions ! :)
Double R
08-23-2009, 10:04 PM
A fellow driver (lease/op) was sitting outside his drop last year in NY at 3am in -10 trying to sleep.
A bored security guard came out and woke him up to tell him "you can't idle you're truck"...
He said "It's -10 out there and I AM idling my truck AND trying to sleep...now go away!"
Guard "I'll call the cops"
Driver "Call the GD cops...NOW GO AWAY"
30 minutes later a NY town cop woke him up..."You can't idle your truck here"
Driver "It's -10 degrees...I'm trying to sleep and my truck IS going to idle because I'm not going to freeze to death which is what would happen if I go to sleep in -10 temperatures"
Cop "I'll have to write you a ticket"
Driver "Write the ticket...THEN LEAVE ME THE HELL ALONE, I'M TRYING TO SLEEP"
He only got a warning...AND he idled his truck.
The state of NY ALLOWS idling in weather below 25 degrees. Both the "rent-a-cop" and cop were wrong.
Also, I see a few keep saying that PA and NJ don't allow idling. They do, IF you are in the sleeper on you 10 hour break. They both have exemptions in the law, and both expire next year.
Here is a PDF that you all can print out. It lists the idling regs by state, city,county. READ THE EXEMPTIONS!!!!!!!!!!.
http://www.atri-online.org/research/idling/atri_cabcard6_22_09.pdf
This list was UPDATED June 2009. Read the on for TX. It has an EXEMPTION for "HOURS OF SERVICE COMPLIENCE". Does not list an expiration date either.
zipy46
08-23-2009, 10:57 PM
Excellent document
Many places appear to allow HOS rest break idling :lol:
zipy46
08-23-2009, 11:05 PM
Here is the original article:
TruckingInfo.com : We've got trucking covered. Your Source for Trucking News and Information (http://www.truckinginfo.com/news/news-detail.asp?news_id=67302)
Part Time Dweller
08-24-2009, 01:15 AM
The state of NY ALLOWS idling in weather below 25 degrees. Both the "rent-a-cop" and cop were wrong.
Sounds like Dave P was spreading a trucker tale. He dun herd it on the CB radio, it gots to be true.:lol2:
Orangetxguy
08-24-2009, 03:23 AM
That is a good link. However, it states before you even get to the state by state regulations, that it is used for advisory purposes, not for regulatory compliance.
There are more states there that do not have an allowance for sleeper berth ac/heat, than do have an allowance. However...those that don't, do have a "driver safety / health emergency prevention" exemption.
My stance remains the same. We, as drivers, need to write our respective Federal representatives, and the respective DOT offices, to bring the DOT and FMCSA regulations up to a level where drivers are not prevented from maintaining the basic levels of comfort. If it is a federal standard, it is not over ridden by state or local law, unless said law, provides for greater safety. HOS compliance is all about safety.
You need to beat these people at their own game. I think your idea is good about getting the DOT involved from the safety standpoint. Unless we get enough rest we are not going to be safe on the highway.
DaveP
08-24-2009, 09:03 AM
Sounds like Dave P was spreading a trucker tale. He dun herd it on the CB radio, it gots to be true.:lol2:
No...sounds like small town Barney Fife's and rent-a-cops are the same everywhere.
Malaki86
08-24-2009, 10:50 AM
Don't forget PATT & CRASH - those people are so worried about safety, they'd be the perfect allies in this battle.
jagerbomber3.0
08-24-2009, 02:05 PM
Yeah...........I went ahead and skipped forward from page 1 so I could provide a relevant response for all of you.....
Here's the deal Lucille. Texas is just following suit like California and a few others like New York and Joisey........in taking in active part in "just saying no" to the uber problem of 40 ton monsters aimlessly wandering their territories while emitting unbelievable amounts of air and noise pollution. (just for starters);)
Texas is simply taking an active stance. Others soon to follow. Drivers shouldn't be couped up in those coffins for days on end. If these carriers are such "logistical professionals" they should be more than capable of scheduling a driver in to a hotel for the night for proper rest??????:eek1:
Not some sleazy, filthy truck stop after a 14 hour day of work.
Reform is on the way! Apparently government is leading the charge this time. Since (we) as drivers can't seem to agree on anything.
I say that it can't come soon enough! So long coolie carriers!
GEEZ,Not this garbage again!
Texasspider
08-25-2009, 05:15 PM
The state of NY ALLOWS idling in weather below 25 degrees. Both the "rent-a-cop" and cop were wrong.
Also, I see a few keep saying that PA and NJ don't allow idling. They do, IF you are in the sleeper on you 10 hour break. They both have exemptions in the law, and both expire next year.
Here is a PDF that you all can print out. It lists the idling regs by state, city,county. READ THE EXEMPTIONS!!!!!!!!!!.
http://www.atri-online.org/research/idling/atri_cabcard6_22_09.pdf
This list was UPDATED June 2009. Read the on for TX. It has an EXEMPTION for "HOURS OF SERVICE COMPLIENCE". Does not list an expiration date either.
Then it's not a complete list if it doesn't have the expiration date for TX. Since that is why you can no longer idle after the 1st.
Double R
09-01-2009, 10:25 PM
Then it's not a complete list if it doesn't have the expiration date for TX. Since that is why you can no longer idle after the 1st.
Well what do you know, it was updated:
http://www.atri-online.org/research/idling/2009ATRIIdlingComp_Aug09.pdf
The link I posted at the time was updated June, 2009. So yes, at the time it was correct.
chuck3507
09-06-2009, 07:00 AM
Yeah...........I went ahead and skipped forward from page 1 so I could provide a relevant response for all of you.....
Here's the deal Lucille. Texas is just following suit like California and a few others like New York and Joisey........in taking in active part in "just saying no" to the uber problem of 40 ton monsters aimlessly wandering their territories while emitting unbelievable amounts of air and noise pollution. (just for starters);)
Texas is simply taking an active stance. Others soon to follow. Drivers shouldn't be couped up in those coffins for days on end. If these carriers are such "logistical professionals" they should be more than capable of scheduling a driver in to a hotel for the night for proper rest??????:eek1:
Not some sleazy, filthy truck stop after a 14 hour day of work.
Reform is on the way! Apparently government is leading the charge this time. Since (we) as drivers can't seem to agree on anything.
I say that it can't come soon enough! So long coolie carriers!
Yeah, and all shippers and recievers should have bunkrooms.
I spoke with a driver with Heartland yesterday. He told me that they had a driver who died in his truck in Texas due to the heat and not being able to idle.
terrylamar
09-06-2009, 07:19 PM
I spoke with a driver with Heartland yesterday. He told me that they had a driver who died in his truck in Texas due to the heat and not being able to idle.
Not meaning to be disrepectful of the dead, but that was one dumb truck driver. Who in their right mind will choose death over an idling ticket or getting out of the truck and going someplace cool or using other coping stratigies like fans, ice or shade.
I guess it is nature's way of weeding out the weak.
Malaki86
09-07-2009, 01:09 AM
Well, maybe some people either can't afford to pay the ticket or choose not to break the law, no matter how stupid it is.
I only hope that any family he left behind starts suing anyone and everything - from the carrier to the federal government (OSHA) to the state to the city.
And, ya, a fan blowing 110f air around inside of a truck really helps... He may as well as had the heater running.
terrylamar
09-07-2009, 01:12 AM
Yeah, I'm sure the funeral was cheaper than the ticker would have been.
freebirdrfd
09-07-2009, 03:57 AM
that just proves how stupid some people can be
Well, maybe some people either can't afford to pay the ticket or choose not to break the law, no matter how stupid it is.
I only hope that any family he left behind starts suing anyone and everything - from the carrier to the federal government (OSHA) to the state to the city.
And, ya, a fan blowing 110f air around inside of a truck really helps... He may as well as had the heater running.
I don't see how it would be the fault of his carrier unless they told him not to idle. I agree that his family should file suite against the state and local governments who enacted this law. The should sue each legislator who voted for this law, personally.
zipy46
09-08-2009, 12:58 AM
I talked to the head of my company..
If its over 100 degrees you can legally idle in Ca
Its the CVMA (?) that has these idle patrols that roam about Ca.
I dont think the regular cops are too concerned about idling rigs...they got
the LA gangs to keep them occupied.
~~~~~~~~~~
I am idling in Louisiana tonight because its humid as heck....i did not have to idle any of the last 2 nights crossing the desert sands.....the temp drop pretty quick at night out there
Malaki86
09-08-2009, 01:38 AM
I don't see how it would be the fault of his carrier unless they told him not to idle. I agree that his family should file suite against the state and local governments who enacted this law. The should sue each legislator who voted for this law, personally.
If the company sent a driver into an area where they knew in advance that there was no idling permitted (when it was plainly needed), and the company didn't provide to pay for IdleAire (if it was available), a motel (if there was one nearby with truck parking) or an APU to provide the cooling that was needed, then how are they NOT at least partially responsible? The company plainly did not provide the employee with a safe working environment.
OSHA needs to get into enforcing regulations regarding the temperature inside of a trucks cab. I know when I worked at a factory in Virginia years ago, in the summer, OSHA would regularly come in and do temperature readings. If the temperature exceeded 105 (if I remember correctly), the factory had to shut down that section of the plant. There was a number of times when they shut down the entire plant.
105 is nothing compared to the temps inside of a truck that's parked in direct sunlight, in a crowded parking lot, and with the outside temp already exceeding 100.
Perhaps OSHA should get involved. In order for the company to provide a safe working environment they would need to violate the law by encouraging the driver to idle. It is the state that prohibits the company from having a safe working environment.
I talked to the head of my company..
If its over 100 degrees you can legally idle in Ca
Its the CVMA (?) that has these idle patrols that roam about Ca.
I dont think the regular cops are too concerned about idling rigs...they got
the LA gangs to keep them occupied.
~~~~~~~~~~
I am idling in Louisiana tonight because its humid as heck....i did not have to idle any of the last 2 nights crossing the desert sands.....the temp drop pretty quick at night out there
Drivers should not have to wait until temps get to 100 before they can idle.
zipy46
09-08-2009, 02:51 AM
OSHA Public Website Contact Information Page (http://www.osha.gov/html/Feed_Back.html)
OSHA may listen ....but I doubt it
Copperhead
09-10-2009, 02:14 AM
I do not have anything to do with Texas, but I was listening to a number of programs on XM recently and people on them were saying that the anti-idle is NOT state wide in Texas. It only affects primarily the I35 corridor and a few other places. Before everyone gets there collective shorts in a wad, maybe they may want to look into this deeper. Even if one does not have an APU, like the supposed driver from Heartland who died in the truck due to the heat, they do make hotels to sleep in. Better than sleeping in a truck anyway.
Not all motels have truck parking. The price of a motel room is not cheap and most drivers or carriers are not going to spend the money for a room when they can idle and stay comfortable. Even if they did it could cause problems in time and availability of rooms. With most drivers schedules it would be difficult for most of them to look for a room with available parking and a decent price. I have traveled otr with a day cab and had to either sleep across the seats or pay for a motel. It can be a challenge just to find a motel with parking for trucks. It isn't practical for drivers to all stay in motels. Besides, I don't think that there are enough rooms to accommodate all the drivers.
zipy46
09-11-2009, 07:55 PM
I'm in Lufkin right now...
and yes....
I am idling :rofl:
mike3fan
09-12-2009, 01:02 AM
I'm in Lufkin right now...
and yes....
I am idling :rofl:
WELL, aren't you the rebel.
I'm in Lufkin right now...
and yes....
I am idling :rofl:
That is the way you outlaw trucks are......Just throw it in their face. 'IDLE OR BUST." :clap:
Orangetxguy
09-13-2009, 12:45 AM
I'm in Lufkin right now...
and yes....
I am idling :rofl:
Good deal. I camped at the Petro in San Antonio last night....and I idled. All night long. :thumbsup:
Thursday morning I camped at the Flying J in Eherenbetrg AZ....from 5am till I left at 3pm........idled the whole time. The wind was blowing towards California the entire time!! :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup::lol:
Good deal. I camped at the Petro in San Antonio last night....and I idled. All night long. :thumbsup:
Thursday morning I camped at the Flying J in Eherenbetrg AZ....from 5am till I left at 3pm........idled the whole time. The wind was blowing towards California the entire time!! :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup::lol:
I can just see it now. They print up "WANTED DEAD OR ALIVE" posters and call out the FBI. You are on the Homeland Insecurity's terrorist list. :rofl:
geeshock
09-13-2009, 07:50 AM
We need to all ban together and let our voices be heard by DOT and the politicians but that will never happen. Unfortunately it will take deadly crashes piling up before these idiot politicians realize they goofed on this type of law.
That would only get them together and do more HOS changes. After all it's those truckdrivers spending to much time driving if they arent rested up isn't it. mabe they need 15 hours of sleep instead of just 10, lol
Windwalker
09-14-2009, 12:21 AM
that just proves how stupid some people can be
You're absolutely right. The "SUPER STUPIDITY" of some people. You have a "READY MADE, MADE-TO-ORDER" martyr, and what are you going to do? Let him die in vane. For nothing. You're absolutely right.
Of course, if you made him a "POSTER-BOY" and accuse the state of passing LETHAL LEGISLATION...
vBulletin® v3.7.2, Copyright ©2000-2009, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.
Content Relevant URLs by
vBSEO 3.2.0