Trucking news and briefs for Monday, Jan. 18, 2021:
Fleet doubles tarp pay for flatbed drivers
Tulsa-based Melton Truck Lines (CCJ Top 250, No. 84) recently announced it will double the amount it pays drivers for tarping loads, effective Feb. 2.
The decision to hike tarping pay from $50 to $100 a load came after Melton conducted a driver survey, which found an increase in tarp pay would be the most meaningful pay increase, according to the company. The increased tarping compensation translates to an additional $10,000 or more annually for all drivers, new or experienced, the company added.
“We are excited to announce this pay increase because our drivers deserve it,” said Lisa Mason, Melton vice president of safety and human resources. “Tarping is the most strenuous part of our job, and we want our drivers to be rewarded for it.”
ITI adds protest-focused training
Trucking industry training firm Instructional Technologies Inc. has added training to its services to help fleets and drivers deal with demonstrations and protests that block roads.
The focus of the new material is to advise drivers how to avoid protest and demonstration sites or stay safe if they can’t avoid the areas.
If aggressive pedestrians are blocking the road, the course advises drivers to:
- Avoid provoking or engaging with protesters
- Set the parking brakes
- Lock all doors and windows
- Remain in the vehicle if safe to do so, but never if you feel at risk
- Call law enforcement
- Use a mobile phone or dash cam to record the event
The course also addresses other forms of aggressive driving (or road rage) that professional drivers may encounter.
