The incident happened on April 11 shortly after 5 a.m. while Hunt was traveling westbound through the area.

According to TCA, Hunt noticed a large dust cloud near the shoulder before realizing a Honda sedan had overturned off the roadway.

“I saw a dust cloud and checked the shoulder, and the vehicle was upside down,” said Hunt. “I put on my hazards, grabbed my flashlight, and went over to check on him.”

Crash Scene Response Happened Before Emergency Crews Arrived

After safely parking his truck, Hunt walked over to check on the driver involved in the crash.

TCA said Hunt noticed the motorist appeared disoriented and performed what the association described as a concussion check while assessing the situation.

Although the driver reportedly believed medical assistance was unnecessary, Hunt contacted emergency services and stayed at the scene until responders arrived.

“He looked shell-shocked, and I could tell something wasn’t right,” Hunt said. “Even though he didn’t think he needed help, I called emergency services anyway—better safe than sorry, especially with adrenaline.”

The association credited Hunt for remaining calm during the situation and continuing to monitor the driver while waiting for emergency personnel.

Highway Angel Recognition Program Continues Highlighting Drivers

TCA launched the Highway Angel program in 1997 to recognize professional truck drivers who step in during emergencies or assist others while working on the road.

According to the association, nearly 1,500 drivers have received Highway Angel recognition since the program began.

The organization said Hunt’s actions stood out because he immediately stopped to help after spotting the overturned vehicle during the early morning hours along Interstate 58.

The Highway Angel program continues with support from EpicVue, DriverFacts, and Northland Insurance.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: May 21, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Source: Nigel Hunt, TCA, Truckers News

The post ABF Freight Driver Honored After Assisting Motorist in Early Morning California Crash appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Federal law generally prohibits foreign truck drivers operating under B-1 visas from performing point-to-point freight transportation inside the United States beyond a limited permitted activity.
Under current rules, B-1 visa holders are typically allowed to complete one pickup or delivery within the U.S. tied to an international movement. However, ATRI said anecdotal reports suggest some foreign drivers may be operating outside those limitations and conducting additional domestic freight activity beyond border commercial zones.

ATRI Says Research Will Focus on Industry Impact

ATRI’s new survey asks truck drivers and motor carriers to share information about where and when suspected unauthorized cabotage activity is being observed.
The organization said survey responses will help support a larger research effort aimed at measuring the economic impact unauthorized cabotage may have on U.S. freight operations, trucking jobs, and carrier competition.
“Cabotage laws were created to protect U.S. jobs and ensure that a level playing field exists,” said Kaitlyn Holmecki, American Trucking Associations’ director of international policy. “When illegal low-cost transportation services undercut domestic freight operations, the entire trucking industry pays the price.”
ATRI said the research findings will eventually be used to help build an economic model estimating the broader financial impact unauthorized cabotage activity may have across the trucking industry.

Survey Responses Will Remain Confidential

The organization said all responses submitted through the survey will remain confidential and will only be used in summary statistical reporting.
The survey remains open through June 12 and is available to both truck drivers and motor carriers.
Cabotage enforcement has remained a recurring topic throughout trucking as concerns continue surrounding cross-border freight operations, labor costs, regulatory enforcement, and competitive pressure tied to international freight movement.

Industry groups supporting stronger enforcement have argued that unauthorized domestic freight activity involving foreign drivers can place downward pressure on freight rates and create competitive disadvantages for U.S.-based carriers and drivers operating under domestic regulations.
ATRI encouraged truck drivers and fleets with firsthand observations related to cabotage activity to participate in the survey as part of the ongoing research effort.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: May 19, 2026

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The Samsara Driver Cup begins May 18 and will run in three scoring periods through mid-August. The competition is open to eligible U.S.-based Samsara customers, and drivers do not need to complete a separate signup if their organization qualifies.

Samsara said hundreds of thousands of drivers are expected to compete, with top performers eligible for prizes worth up to $1,000 during each stage of the competition.

The scoring periods are:

• May 18 through June 16
• June 17 through July 16
• July 17 through August 15

How Samsara Will Score Drivers

The competition will rank drivers across three categories.

Safety Consistency Champion focuses on long-term safe driving habits using metrics such as event-free miles, speeding behavior, mobile phone usage, and coaching completion.

HOS Compliance Champion measures hours of service performance by comparing violation time against total driving time.

Efficiency Champion evaluates fuel savings against similar vehicle configurations across Samsara’s network, including vehicle make, model, year, and engine type.

The company said route type, shift length, and vehicle type will also be considered, so drivers are compared more fairly across different operations.

Eligible Fleets Are Automatically Included

Samsara said drivers working for qualifying organizations are automatically entered into the competition.

To qualify, fleets must:

• Be a U.S.-based Samsara customer
• Have at least six months on the platform
• Maintain at least three enabled safety events
• Reach a trip assignment rate of 80% or higher

Driver scoring, selection, and prize distribution will be handled directly through Samsara’s platform.

Recognition Programs Continue Expanding Across Trucking

Driver recognition programs tied to measurable performance metrics have become more common throughout trucking as fleets continue focusing on retention, safety improvement, compliance tracking, and fuel management.

Samsara said the Driver Cup is intended to create a structured way for fleets to recognize strong driver performance without adding significant administrative work across large operations managing different routes, schedules, and equipment types.

The company also said recognition programs can help reinforce safer driving habits, cleaner HOS records, and stronger fuel efficiency performance over time.

As more fleets rely on telematics and operational data platforms, performance-based driver recognition programs may continue expanding across the industry.

Fleets interested in participating can review contest details, prize information, eligibility requirements, and additional Driver Cup information directly through Samsara’s Driver Cup page. The company also encouraged fleets to distribute Driver Cup flyers to participating drivers before the competition began.

Samsara additionally hosted a live Office Hours session tied to the competition rollout to answer questions from participating fleets and drivers. Questions regarding the Driver Cup can also be submitted directly to drivercup@samsara.com.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: May 19, 2026

Source: Truckers News

The post Samsara Launches Driver Cup to Reward Safe, Compliant, And Fuel-Efficient Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

What happened on Interstate 43

The crash took place on March 22 around 2:45 p.m. as Miller was traveling near Interstate 43. A tour bus carrying more than 50 passengers lost control while exiting the highway. It crossed lanes, struck a curb, went airborne, and continued for more than 100 yards before going over a five-foot embankment and coming to rest between two buildings.

“Wow, this bus comes flying across the highway… hit the curb, jumped in the air… and then went about 125 more yards,” Miller said. “It could have been so much worse.”

How the situation unfolded

At least 41 people were injured, including two in critical condition. The crash required a response from multiple agencies. Miller said he narrowly avoided being hit.

“If I’d been five seconds further down the road, it would have probably killed me,” he said.

Instead of continuing, he called 911, paused, and took a moment to read the scene before moving in. That decision, shaped by years behind the wheel, helped him approach safely.

What Miller did at the scene

Inside the bus, several passengers were trapped or injured. One of them, Audrey Pierce, was stuck in the stairwell near the door.

“He stayed on the scene until the police and paramedics arrived,” Pierce said. “He held my hand and talked to me while I was trapped. He kept me awake and talking.”

Miller stayed for about 90 minutes. During that time, he helped direct emergency vehicles, assisted passengers where possible, and supported first responders. Many of the passengers were elderly, which added to the urgency of the situation.

“They’re basically like your grandma and grandpa,” Miller said. “It really pulls your heartstrings.”

What investigators are looking into

The cause of the crash is still under investigation, including the possibility of mechanical issues. Law enforcement has filed charges against the operator involved.

Why this recognition matters

Miller downplayed the recognition.

“I would never just call 911 and keep going,” he said. “We’re all here to help one another.”

The Highway Angel program, started in 1997 by the Truckload Carriers Association, has recognized nearly 1,500 people for acts of courage, courtesy, and professionalism. With support from EpicVue, DriverFacts, and Northland Insurance, the program continues to highlight those who step in when something goes wrong.

Situations like this develop without warning. What matters is how quickly the scene is assessed and how safely help is provided until first responders arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who named Scott Miller a Highway Angel?
The Truckload Carriers Association recognized him for his actions at the crash scene.

Where did the crash happen?
Near Interstate 43 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

How many people were injured?
At least 41 people were injured, including two in critical condition.

How long did Miller stay at the scene?
About 90 minutes assisting passengers and responders.

What is the Highway Angel program?
It is a recognition program that highlights individuals for acts of courage and assistance on the road.

Moments like this show how quickly a routine drive can turn into something far more serious, and how experience and awareness can make a difference when it does.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: April 29, 2026

Source: Truckers News

The post Truck Driver Named Highway Angel After Helping Dozens Injured in Wisconsin Bus Crash appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The tree will make its way to Washington, D.C., where it will stand in front of the U.S. Capitol as the official Capitol Christmas Tree. For drivers and fleets, the haul itself is what makes this tradition stand out.

A Load That Brings the Industry Into the Spotlight

The Capitol Christmas Tree isn’t just about the destination. The cross-country trip has become a yearly highlight for the trucking industry, putting a spotlight on the role drivers play in connecting communities.

Each year, a single carrier is selected to handle the move, with a specially wrapped truck leading the way. The Truckload Carriers Association has long supported the effort, and Kenworth provides the custom truck used to haul the tree across the country.

Along the route, the truck makes multiple stops, giving communities a chance to see the tree up close before it reaches the Capitol.

Idaho Takes Center Stage in 2026

This year marks the first time the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests will supply the Capitol Christmas Tree. The forest spans more than 4 million acres, covering rugged terrain that includes mountains, rivers, and deep canyons.

“Idaho couldn’t be prouder to see one of our own trees chosen as the Nation’s Capitol Christmas Tree,” said Idaho Governor Brad Little. “This is a great honor and a reminder of the natural beauty we’re blessed with here at home. We’re excited to share some Idaho spirit with families across the country next Christmas season.”

The selection kicks off a full year of events tied to the tree, highlighting local communities, forestry partners, and the history of the region.

A Nationwide Effort Behind the Scenes

Moving a load like this takes coordination well beyond the driver’s seat. Multiple partners are involved, including the Society of American Foresters, which continues to support the program as a national partner.

“2026 marks the celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary. SAF is proud to continue our support of The People’s Tree as it makes its way across the country,” said SAF CEO Terry Baker. “This public/private partnership exemplifies what we can accomplish when we come together from varied backgrounds and interests with a common goal.”

The U.S. Forest Service has worked alongside the Architect of the Capitol for more than five decades to make this annual delivery happen. Each year, a tree is selected from one of the country’s national forests and transported to Washington following a multi-stop tour.

More Than Just a Delivery

For those in trucking, this run represents something different from the usual day-to-day freight. It’s a chance to be part of a tradition that reaches beyond the industry and into communities nationwide.

Jon Word, forest supervisor for the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, emphasized the significance of the moment.

“It is a great honor to provide the 2026 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, the ‘People’s Tree’, from the Nez Perce-Clearwater. We look forward to working closely with the Nez Perce Tribe, the Society of American Foresters, and all our partners and communities.”

As the year moves forward, more details will come out about the tree selection and the route it will take. For drivers and fleets, it’s one of those rare hauls that reminds everyone just how visible and important trucking can be.

The post 2026 Capitol Christmas Tree Will Roll Out of Idaho on a Cross-Country Trucking Journey appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The effort comes after several winter crashes involving tractor-trailers, commercial vehicles, and passenger cars, which caused significant traffic disruptions, particularly in western New York. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported in those incidents.

During the operation, troopers issued a total of 535 citations to passenger and commercial drivers. Of those, 224 tickets, or 42 percent, were for speeding. Additional violations included Move Over Law infractions, distracted driving due to electronic devices, and failure to wear seatbelts. Commercial vehicle-specific citations were also issued for issues with permits, registration, and equipment.

Troopers from the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit inspected 148 trucks, and 49 were immediately placed out of service for safety violations, including overweight or over-height loads. In addition, 60 drivers received citations for attempting to evade the CVEU checkpoint. Troopers also made four DWI arrests during the day.

“A core mission of the State Police is to ensure the safety of the state’s roadways, and our troopers work hard every day to successfully carry out this mandate,” said NYSP Superintendent Steven G. James. “Focused enforcement details such as these allow us to proactively respond to specific challenges, educate the public about safe driving, and, when necessary, remove unsafe vehicles and motorists from the road. We’ve had an active winter, and it’s not over yet. While we can’t control Mother Nature’s impact on road conditions, we can — and must — control how we operate behind the wheel.”

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

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According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, the new spaces are already available at 24 locations across the Commonwealth. These sites include Interstate on ramps, weigh stations, and other state-owned properties that can be used quickly without waiting for long-term construction projects. For drivers dealing with packed rest areas and limited hours of service flexibility, the additions offer immediate relief in high traffic corridors.

Why These New Spaces Matter to Drivers

Finding safe and legal parking has become one of the most consistent challenges for professional drivers. Congested freight lanes, tight delivery windows, and hours of service limits often leave drivers searching late in the day with few options. PennDOT says the newly opened locations were selected to address those pressure points while allowing drivers to meet federal rest requirements without risking violations or unsafe parking.

“As a commercial driver’s license holder, I know how critical safe parking options are for the people who keep goods moving to and through Pennsylvania,” said Mike Carroll. “The Shapiro Administration is wasting no time in making good on this commitment to give them more options to meet their federal rest requirements. This is a commonsense approach to enhance safety, and the department is looking at ways to add even more spaces.”

Locations Where New Truck Parking Is Now Available

Before the end of 2025, PennDOT completed truck parking additions at the following locations:

• Interstate 99 on ramps in Bellwood, Blair County
• I-79 northbound and southbound weigh stations in Butler County
• Route 100 northbound weigh station in Chester County
• Four I-79 on ramps in Erie County
• I-81 northbound and southbound weigh stations in Franklin County
• Location off I 70 in Fulton County
• I-380 northbound and southbound weigh stations in Lackawanna County
• Location off Route 315 in Luzerne County
• Route 9404 William Penn Highway Park and Ride in Northampton County
• Location off Route 6 in Pike County
• I-81 northbound and southbound weigh stations in Schuylkill County
• Two locations off U.S. 11 in Snyder County
• I 79 southbound weigh station in Washington County
• I-83 northbound and southbound weigh stations in York County

These locations were chosen because they could be activated quickly and are already positioned along heavily traveled freight routes.

How Drivers Can Find These Parking Spots

To make the new spaces easier to locate, PennDOT added a Public Truck Parking feature to the 511PA system. Drivers can view available parking on www.511PA.com or through the 511PA mobile app. The map shows both existing truck parking and newly designated locations, with updates added as more sites open.

What Comes Next for Pennsylvania Truck Parking

The 339 spaces are only part of PennDOT’s long-term plan. The agency has stated it is continuing to evaluate additional state-owned sites and weigh stations where more parking can be added quickly. These early openings are intended to reduce immediate pressure while larger expansion projects move forward.

For drivers moving freight through Pennsylvania, the added parking means fewer last-minute decisions, less stress at the end of the day, and more opportunities to stay compliant while staying safe.

Source: Truckers News

The post PennDOT Opens 339 New Truck Parking Spaces Across Pennsylvania appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Truckload Carriers Association has named Christopher Bishop, a professional driver for Hi Pro Inc., as a recipient of the TCA Highway Angel Award for his actions following a hit-and-run crash involving a motorcyclist in Wichita, Kansas.

Early Morning Emergency in Wichita

The incident happened in the early morning hours of Dec. 13 at approximately 2:15 a.m. CST. Bishop had just left his terminal and was heading to load at the Wichita USPS Processing and Distribution Center when he came upon a disturbing scene on a city roadway.

A motorcycle was lying in a ditch, and its rider was severely injured and positioned in the middle of the road.

“He was just lying in the middle of the road,” Bishop said. “I stopped, and the first thing that ran through my mind was that he was dead.”

Based on what Bishop observed and later camera footage, the motorcyclist appeared to have been struck by a sedan that fled the scene without stopping.

Protecting the Scene and the Victim

Without hesitation, Bishop activated his truck’s flashers and positioned his vehicle to block traffic, creating a barrier between the injured rider and oncoming vehicles. After checking the rider, Bishop realized the man was still alive.

Bishop immediately called 911 and stayed with the victim, keeping him conscious and monitoring his breathing while emergency responders were on the way.

“I kept him talking as much as I could,” Bishop said. “Not long after that, an ambulance and police showed up.”

Emergency crews arrived roughly seven minutes later.

Critical Actions in Dangerous Conditions

Bishop’s actions were especially important given the cold December temperatures and the risks associated with a dark roadway in the early morning hours. By blocking traffic and staying with the injured motorcyclist, Bishop helped prevent further injuries, exposure to the cold, or the possibility of another vehicle striking the victim.

“Sometimes you have to actively be the change you want to see in the world,” he said.

Bishop later expressed disbelief that the driver responsible for the crash failed to stop.

“They didn’t stop; I couldn’t imagine doing that to someone and not stopping to check on him — that’s crazy,” he said.

Recognition From the Truckload Carriers Association

The TCA Highway Angel Award recognizes professional truck drivers who demonstrate extraordinary kindness, courage, and professionalism while on the road. Since the program began in August 1997, nearly 1,500 drivers have been honored for actions that go beyond the job description.

The Highway Angel program is made possible through the support of presenting sponsor EpicVue and supporting sponsors DriverFacts and Northland Insurance.

More information about the TCA Highway Angel program and nomination details is available at the TCA Highway Angel website.

Source: Truckers News

The post Truck Driver Recognized as TCA Highway Angel in Kansas appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The agency plans to relaunch the Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee, a federal group that advises DOT and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration on trucking safety programs and regulations. With the restart, DOT is actively seeking nominations from across the trucking industry, including small-business carriers, individual drivers, safety advocates, and enforcement officials.

According to a notice scheduled to appear in the Federal Register on Thursday, January 22, the committee will serve as a formal channel between industry voices and federal decision-makers.

“The Department solicits nominations for membership to serve on the Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee,” the agency wrote. “MCSAC provides advice and recommendations to the Secretary of Transportation through the administrator of FMCSA about needs, objective, plans, approaches, content and accomplishments of the motor carrier safety programs carried out by the administration and motor carrier safety regulations.”

What the committee does and why it matters

The Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee was first launched in 2006. Its role is not enforcement, but consultation. Members review existing safety programs, evaluate proposed regulatory changes, and provide feedback based on real-world experience inside the trucking industry.

While the committee has existed for nearly two decades, it has not met since December 2024. DOT officials say the relaunch is intended to restore regular industry input, with meetings expected to take place twice a year moving forward.

For drivers and carriers, participation offers a rare opportunity to influence federal safety policy before decisions are finalized rather than reacting after new rules are already in place.

Longstanding concerns about regulation and safety outcomes

One of the most consistent voices on the committee has been Todd Spencer, president of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association. Spencer has repeatedly raised concerns about whether growing layers of regulation are actually delivering the safety improvements they promise.

During a June 2023 committee meeting, Spencer questioned the effectiveness of regulation-driven approaches to highway safety.

“Coming from a trucking perspective … we’ve seen lots and lots of regulations,” Spencer said. “And all of these are supposed to improve highway safety and reduce fatalities and crashes and injuries. And, you know, that’s not happening.

“At some point, I think it’s reasonable to determine the effectiveness of what’s been done so far. And if we can’t show that things actually improved as a result of this (regulation), then maybe it’s the time to put that out, that effort, downscale that effort, and move in a different direction based on some kind of real logical information that would be more likely to produce a positive benefit.”

Since those comments were made, FMCSA has signaled a shift in tone, taking steps to remove what it has described as unnecessary regulations from the books. The committee’s return could play a role in shaping how that effort continues.

Who can apply to serve

DOT is encouraging a broad range of applicants. Qualified individuals may nominate themselves or be nominated by another individual or organization. Previous committee members are also eligible to apply again.

Nominations must include specific documentation to be considered complete.

Applicants are required to submit the following:

• Name, title, and relevant contact information
• A letter of support from a company, union, trade association, academic institution, or nonprofit organization, provided on official letterhead and explaining why the nominee should be selected
• A short biography outlining professional and academic credentials
• A written statement confirming that the nominee meets all eligibility requirements for MCSAC membership

DOT is requesting that nominations be submitted within 30 days of the notice being published in the Federal Register.

Why drivers and carriers should pay attention

For truck drivers and motor carriers, advisory committees like MCSAC represent one of the few structured ways to influence federal policy using firsthand experience from the road. Decisions made at this level can shape safety standards, compliance expectations, and enforcement priorities that directly affect daily operations.

With the committee set to resume regular meetings, the next round of members will have an opportunity to weigh in as FMCSA continues reviewing its approach to safety regulation.

Source: Land Line Media

The post DOT Reopens Safety Committee and Asks Trucking Industry to Take a Seat at the Table appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Walmart sponsors the award and is open to recognizing women whose work reflects a commitment not only to moving freight safely, but also to supporting the people and communities connected to trucking.

“Women are shaping the future of trucking,” said Jennifer Hedrick, WIT president, CEO. “This award celebrates the drivers who go above and beyond in their profession and who uplift others in the industry.”

Why the award matters to the industry

Women make up about 9.5 percent of all professional truck drivers, according to the most recent WIT Index, which tracks the presence of women across trucking roles. While that number has grown over time, WIT says visibility and recognition remain critical to long-term progress.

By spotlighting experienced and dedicated drivers, the association aims to reinforce that professionalism, safety, and leadership are not limited by gender and that the industry benefits when those qualities are recognized publicly.

“Women in trucking aren’t just moving freight, they’re moving the industry forward,” said Ryan McDaniel, senior vice president, Walmart Transportation. “Walmart is honored to continue sponsoring Women In Trucking’s Driver of the Year award and recognize the extraordinary female drivers who lead with professionalism and excellence.”

What the award recognizes

The Driver of the Year honor focuses on more than safe miles alone. Nominees are evaluated based on safety performance, leadership, community involvement, and their overall contribution to improving the image of trucking. WIT emphasizes drivers who act as role models both inside and outside the cab.

Finalists and the winner will be recognized during the 2026 Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky, scheduled for March 27. The winner will also receive a commemorative award package that includes a plaque, a custom ring, and additional recognition.

Hearing from the most recent winner

Last year’s honoree, Kathy Blaies, said the recognition carried meaning beyond the stage.

“Every day I get behind the wheel of my car hauler, rain or shine, and do what I love,” Blaies said. “Standing on that stage to receive this award was validation — not just for me, but for every woman who has ever been told ‘this is a man’s world.’ Progress has sometimes felt slow, but seeing more women in this profession proves that change is happening.”

Her comments reflect why the award resonates with many drivers across the industry, especially those who have built long careers through consistency and dedication.

How to submit a nomination

WIT is accepting nominations through January 29, 2026. Drivers can be nominated by employers, coworkers, industry peers, or members of the public who want to recognize a professional driver making a positive impact.

To nominate a driver, click here.

Source: The Trucker

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