Updated Return-to-Duty Process for CDL Drivers

On June 27, 2023, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued guidance that outlines the National Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (Clearinghouse) return-to-duty process for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. This guidance comes from the final rule published on Oct. 7, 2021, which requires state driver’s licensing agencies (SDLAs) to access and use information from…

CVSA’s Brake Safety Week Scheduled for Aug. 20-26

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) recently scheduled this year’s Brake Safety Week for Aug. 20-26, 2023. This annual event aims to emphasize the importance of ensuring sufficient brake systems in commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). Specifically, the event highlights the role that brake maintenance and efficiency plays in reducing brake-related CMV accidents on the road.…

Hurricane Preparation and Safety Tips for Businesses

According to the Congressional Budget Office, hurricane and tropical storm damages account for approximately $9 billion in losses to commercial businesses each year. Research scientists at Colorado State University recently updated their projections, and are now expecting “above average” tropical cyclone activity during the Atlantic Hurricane Season (June 1 – Nov. 30.) Before a Hurricane…

Avoiding Winter Slips and Falls

Winter months present additional hazards that employees don’t typically encounter during warmer weather. Specifically, you may risk experiencing major slips or falls amid snowy and icy conditions, which could lead to serious injuries. Consider the following recommendations to prevent slip and fall incidents this winter: Wear shoes that provide traction on snow and ice; footwear…

How will Trucking Fare in 2023’s Economy? 

Although there is still a great degree of uncertainty about what 2023 will bring in trucking business conditions, analysts at FTR believe a major recession is unlikely. FTR’s “State of Freight” webinar on Jan. 12 explored the economic indicators that most affect the freight market as well as trucking-specific numbers and offered FTR’s outlook for the year.…

2023 Commercial Property Insurance Market Outlook

The past five years have seen the commercial property insurance market progressively harden, evidenced by consistent rate increases since 2017. However, according to industry data, such rate jumps showed some signs of stagnation in early 2022, with average increases staying within single digits. Going into 2023, rates are still on the rise. Some insureds are…