Trucking insurance industry journal, The Roemer Report, discusses findings from a recent study conducted by Virginia Tech. The findings have thrown a monkey wrench into special interest groups' arguments that hours-of-service should be tightened. The study examined the risk associated with each hour of driving, from hours one through 11 and found a significant increase in risk for the first hour of driving. This finding may be due to sleep inertia (the desire to return to sleep after waking), which typically lasts one to three hours. The first hour may also expose drivers to heavier traffic conditions and an increase in complex driving situations.

The current edition of The Roemer Report says that truckers are feeling the pain of rising diesel prices. Stunned by the escalating prices, trucking companies and other businesses are doing what they can to reduce fuel consumption and cut costs. Truckers are postponing maintenance and packing lunches. All types of transportation companies are cutting what little fat they can find. Truckers in Tacoma say they are investing in bunk heaters to heat and cool cabs so engines don't have to idle. A recent survey found that 69 percent of truckers say fuel costs are their top expense, and to offset costs, 16 percent are downsizing staff, 12 percent are lengthening their workdays, and 8 percent are taking fewer vacations.

According to The Roemer Report, the American Trucking Associations (ATA) says it will seek new ways to help truckers remove snow and ice from their trucks without risking their safety. ATA president and CEO Bill Graves has requested that the American Transportation Research Institute study the issue and recommend new technology or equipment that lets drivers clear their roofs without the associated dangers.

The journal also notes that motor carriers are doing whatever they can to lure drivers. Now truck manufacturers are getting in on the act. Trucks are becoming sleeker and more sophisticated in order to attract more people to the profession. The sophistication and nostalgia are a nod to the more romantic days of trucking, when the profession was seen more as a career for adventurous and independent types.

According to The Roemer Report, state troopers in North Carolina are handing out fines of up to $25,000 for trucks that are overweight or that don't have the necessary number of escort vehicles. More than a dozen trucking companies have contested the penalties, asking courts to reduce fines and throw out the big, unreasonable ones. So far, judges have sided with the motor carriers in at least seven

The Roemer Report is a monthly digest of news for the trucking industry read by fleet operators, owner-operators, and allied personnel. Often referred to as the "Kiplinger Letter of the Trucking Industry", the report has been published by Roemer Insurance for more than 30 years. The publication is distributed free of charge in both print and electronic formats and is archived on the Roemer Insurance website and Insure My Rig (www.insuremyrig.com/roemerreport.htm), the small fleet division of Roemer Insurance.

To receive the Roemer Report by email or download earlier editions visit www.roemer-insurance.com/transportation/transportation_romerreport_current.htm.

About Roemer Insurance
Established in 1934 by trucking insurance pioneer, Wellington F. "Dud" Roemer,
Roemer Insurance is a third-generation family owned and operated insurance and risk-management firm. Roemer Insurance is a Toledo-area leader in employee health and benefit package plans, with an emphasis on workplace wellness, strong community ties and active participation in business and charitable organizations. Roemer Insurance specializes in trucking insurance packages for large and small fleets. Its Health Life Benefits division offers group and personal coverage. Committed to technology and sound insurance practices, Roemer Insurance continues to set the standard in risk management and customer service. Roemer Insurance is a member of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America and The Professional Insurance Association. For more information, visit www.roemer-insurance.com or call 419.475.5151.