Trucking news and briefs for Tuesday, April 2, 2024:
Texas-based concrete pumper driver shut down by FMCSA
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has effectively shut down Texas-licensed commercial driver Jerry Hernandez and ordered him to immediately cease operating any commercial motor vehicle in interstate or intrastate commerce.
On March 22, Hernandez was operating a large concrete pumping truck for FJM Concrete Pumping LLC, when he crossed the center line and hit an oncoming school bus transporting pre-K students. As a result of the crash, the school bus flipped over and a 5-year-old child was killed, the 33-year-old driver of a car behind the bus was killed, and dozens of passengers were injured.
Following the crash, Hernandez admitted to the investigating law enforcement officers that he had smoked marijuana the night before the crash and had used cocaine in the early morning hours before the crash.
According to the Imminent Hazard order, in addition to the recent crash, Hernandez also has “a history of using controlled substances while being employed as a professional CMV driver.” FMCSA said he had been prohibited from operating CMVs three times for drug use, and he was currently prohibited from operating CMVs at the time of the crash based on an April 2023 positive test that revealed he had been using cocaine. Hernandez is listed as “prohibited” in FMCSA’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, and FMCSA is working with the state of Texas to disqualify his CDL.
Failing to comply with the provisions of the Federal Imminent Hazard Disqualification Order may result in civil penalties of up to $6,974. Knowing and/or willful violations may result in criminal penalties.
[Related: FMCSA shuts down truck driver after fatal crash, DUI]
Former NTTC president passes
Clifford J. Harvison, the National Tank Truck Carriers’ longest-service president, passed away on March 19 at his home in Stuart, Florida, the group announced recently.
Clifford J. HarvisonNTTC
During his tenure, Harvison focused on enhancing NTTC's credibility with its members, the industry at large, government regulators, and Capitol Hill. He led the association through the challenging days of deregulation and industry restructuring and played a pivotal role in supporting significant changes to the regulations governing the design, construction, and maintenance of cargo tanks used to haul hazardous materials, which enhanced safety.
“Cliff Harvison was an influential and iconic leader for NTTC and the tank truck industry, laying the foundation for the association’s regulatory influence, traversing deregulation, and building one of the strongest member-driven organizations,” said Ryan Streblow, NTTC President & CEO. “On behalf of the tank truck industry, our hearts go out to Sandy Harvison and family. Cliff will forever be remembered as the voice for the tank truck industry.”
Harvison's legacy includes the Harvison Division of the North American Safety Contest and Heil Trophy, named in his honor, which is awarded annually to the safest company in the tank truck industry. He also led NTTC and the industry's response to the 9/11 attacks, working closely with government agencies to address security concerns related to cargo tanks hauling hazardous materials or food products.
Harvison was a graduate of Duquesne University, where he excelled in tennis. He served in the U.S. Army and worked at the Central Intelligence Agency on the German Desk before joining NTTC. An avid golfer, reader and expert in crossword puzzles, Harvison is survived by his wife Sandy, son John, and brother Carl. He was predeceased by his daughter Jennifer in 2013.
His memorial service will be held April 18 at 11 am at Mariner Sands Country Club in Stuart, Florida. In lieu of flowers and at his request, the family suggests donations in Harvison's name be made to Tunnels to Towers.
A. Duie Pyle celebrates 100th anniversary
A. Duie Pyle (CCJ Top 250, No. 63), a family-owned and operated provider of asset- and non-asset-based supply chain solutions, is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.
This significant milestone marks a century of unparalleled service, innovation and perseverance in the logistics and transportation industry, the company said. Founded on the principles of hard work, integrity and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Pyle has grown from a humble beginning started with just one used truck into a large entity in the supply chain.
According to CCJ's Top 250, the company’s asset-based business boast more than 1,700 trucks, nearly 3,000 trailers and more than 2,000 drivers. Pyle also has a large brokerage operation.
Over the decades, Pyle has navigated through numerous economic cycles and technological changes, always emerging stronger and more committed to its core values. From its early days of hauling goods for local businesses in Chester County, Pennsylvania, to becoming a comprehensive logistics provider with a vast network across the Northeastern United States, Pyle's journey is a testament to the vision and perseverance of its founders, Alexander Duie and Mary Ellen Pyle, and the generations that followed.
In celebration of its centennial year, Pyle is reflecting on its rich history while looking forward to the future with innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers. The company credits its success to its dedicated employees, loyal customers, long-term vendors and the guiding principles that have remained constant throughout its history.
"Reaching the 100-year milestone is humbling for all of us at A. Duie Pyle. It's a testament to the resilience, hard work and stewardship that runs deep in our company's culture,” said Peter Latta, chairman and CEO of Pyle, reflecting on this landmark achievement. “As we celebrate, we also look ahead to the future with excitement for the opportunities and challenges it holds. We remain committed to delivering exceptional service and solutions to our customers, driven by our core values and the incredible team we call the Pyle People."
The company has planned a series of events throughout the year to commemorate its 100th anniversary, including customer appreciation activities, employee recognition events and community service projects, all designed to celebrate the past and inspire the future.
[Related: A. Duie Pyle opens new facility in Maine]
Nat-gas Mack LR trucks recalled
Mack Trucks is recalling approximately 106 natural gas-powered 2024-’25 Mack LR trucks due to a missing fuse, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration documents.
Mack said the methane detector in the affected units may be inoperable because of the missing fuse. An inoperative methane detector can fail to detect a gas leak, increasing the risk of a fire or injury, according to the recall.
Dealers will install a fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 24. Owners can contact Mack customer service at 1-800-866-1177 with recall number SC0461. NHTSA’s recall number is 24V-232.
