Previously, we covered some of the top concerns within the trucking industry for 2021. It’s crucial to be aware of these issues so that you can take actions to reduce or eliminate the effects that result from these concerns affecting the industry. But, it’s also important to stay alert and keep a watchful eye on some emerging concerns within the industry too, so that you can stay ahead of the game and be prepared for possible future circumstances as a carrier or owner-operator.
One emerging issue within the trucking industry to be aware of is driver distraction.
The federal government has defined distracted driving as “any activity that could divert a peron’s attention away from the primary task of driving.”
This activity includes:
- Reaching
- Holding
- Dialing
- Texting
- Reading
Through the years, as handheld technology has developed at an extremely fast pace, distracted driving has become more and more prominent, posing a threat to the trucking industry.
Given that distracted driving is one of the top causes for accidents on U.S. highways and roads, it’s crucial to take all the possible preventative steps to keep yourself, or your drivers, from being affected by driver distraction and suffering the consequences of this issue.
Here are some tips to do this:
- Keep your cell phone in the glove compartment box when driving
- Make sure your GPS is set before getting started on your journey
- Pull over if you have to make a call, eat, or do anything else that might distract you from the road
Next, it is important to take a note of rising fuel prices, and the changing economy as a whole.
The relatively high fuel prices, given our current economy, make it a challenge to stay within profit margins, for a few reasons. First, this because gas purchases–apart from truck purchases– are the highest cost for truckers. Second, the high fuel costs are creating issues for shipping companies interms of profitability, affecting carrier pay. Finally, this all plays into the driver shortage, as the rising costs and declining pay are deterring potential drivers away from the industry.
However, there are things you can do to combat the effects of this emerging concern, and Simplex can help with these!
- Invest in optimization software to maximize resources and efficiency by shortening routes and, therefore, saving fuel.
- Look into a a fuel discount program or card to save on gas and generate benefits.
By reading this blog post, you’re already a step ahead and ready for any effects that these emerging concerns might have on the trucking industry. Simplex has your back, and we’re equipped to support you through any challenges or victories that come your way.