COVID-19’s Impact on the Trucking Industry
We are truly living through unprecedented times. COVID-19 has impacted what seems like every industry and business throughout the U.S. in some way. Over the past few months, businesses have closed down, stay-at-home orders were put in place, and social distancing protocols were established. It is in times of crisis like this, that the trucking industry shines through as an important piece of the backbone for the economy.
The information below will guide you through some of the most significant changes and things to keep in mind as an employee in the trucking industry.
Rules and Regulations
Truck drivers were deemed essential critical infrastructure workers and have continued to work through the chaos of COVID-19. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, or the FMCSA, has issued a few new waivers and rules to ensure that things can continue to run smoothly on the roads.
- CDL Waivers: It is now easier than ever for drivers to get their CDL renewed. All CDL’s that expire on or after March 1, 2020 have been automatically extended to September 30, 2020.
- CDL Exams: CDL examiners can now administer a CDL test from outside the cab or even conduct testing online.
- Medical Certification: CDL and CLP holders will not be required to take a medical examination and be certified if:
- They have proof of being medically certified for 90 days or longer
- The medical certification expires on or after March 1, 2020
Driver Health and Safety
Drivers continue to risk their health to help the economy and make sure the supply chains continue operating undisturbed. Although drivers spend the majority of their time alone in the cab of their truck, there is always the risk of contracting the virus when interacting with site operators, coworkers, or when stopping to access amenities.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) should be made readily available for all drivers to promote their health and safety while on the road. The fewer drivers have to come in close contact with other people or objects at all, the better. Touchless ticketing technology benefits drivers and site operators, because they can conveniently conduct all business from their smartphone. This technology significantly reduces the chance of disease transmission altogether, as drivers never needs to leave their truck and ticket signers don’t have to hand over a physical piece of paper.
The Dauber App is Safe and Easy-to-Use
The Dauber App can help you get ahead in the trucking industry and have one of the most efficient fleets on the road. COVID-19 is going to continue to evolve and bring other changes to the trucking industry. Daubers’ incredible features like Touchless Ticketing and Automatic Dispatching will have you optimizing the logistics of your fleet even through COVID-19. Upgrade your fleet by scheduling a demo with the Dauber App today so that you can begin to operate in the safest and most efficient manner possible!
