Take a close look at a heavy Wrecker Truck

Before continuing work on my class 8 wrecker model project I thought I would get some good pictures of a real wrecker, especially the business end.

Most Reliable 2023 Full-Size Trucks Ranked by Consumer Reports, CarComplaints

ooking for a new 2023 full-size truck? Want to know which one is the most reliable 2023 full-size truck? Publisher Tim Esterdahl puts together a list from Consumer Reports and then shows more results from CarComplaints.com. If you are wanting a truck to last for years, this is the video for you.

Pickup Truck Plus SUV Talk

Old Car vs Modern Car during Crash Test / Evolution of Car Safety

The first models and designs for automobiles were created in the 15th century by none other than Leonardo da Vinci, and the state of the global auto industry has evolved significantly since. First steam, to electric, gasoline, and today’s hybrids, the evolution of safety features in cars plays an essential role in reducing the once overwhelming number of injuries and damages resulting from auto accidents. Auto manufacturers have come a long way over the history of auto safety, paving the way for improved global safety standards.

Unfortunately, as a vehicle ages, a number of factors come into play that reduce the automobiles safety, aside from mechanical wear and tear. According to statistics, a driver is 10 times as likely to suffer fatal injuries in a collision while operating a 30-year-old vehicle versus a late model. The auto industry is continually working to improve the safety of current mechanisms, as well as developing and testing new ideas for safer vehicles. Developments in driving technology and new types of airbags have been prevalent just this year.

While the ultimate safe vehicle may be a long way off, American auto manufacturers have made significant strides in improving the overall security and protection a vehicles structure provides. Over the past 3 decades, fatal accidents in the U.S. have decreased by more than 1/5, a substantial decrease demonstrating immense progress in terms of the safety features in cars.

The need to revolutionize auto safety was not fully realized until the 1950s, when the first usable airbags were developed, among other safety mechanisms. Then, in 1970, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was created. The organization still uses the same name today, and continues its role in promoting and effectively executing driving safety regulations throughout the U.S. Whether creating new policies or revising existing regulations (at the state and federal level), the NHTSA and the United States have been true catalysts in the history of car safety.

Which Age Group Causes The Most Car Accidents?

According to statistics collected over the last decade, two age groups cause the most car accidents: teen drivers and the elderly. There are a number of reasons for these statistics, but the reality is that car accidents are a part of everyday life, and that even though someone might be a member of these demographic groups it does not automatically mean that they are going to be in a crash. 

  Teen drivers Driving represents a lot of things to teens. Freedom, empowerment for the first time in their lives and status as drivers makes putting teens behind the wheel a dangerous prospect. Teen drivers cause car accidents because they are full of youthful exuberance, and they lack the experience of more seasoned drivers, and they are prone to taking risks because they feel they are invincible. Furthermore, teen drivers also drive cars that are not the safest on the road, such as smaller vehicles that have more blind spots, or do not have the safety and accident avoidance features that many other cars have. Also, teens engage in riskier behaviors, such as racing, drinking and driving, and overloading their cars with too many people, all of which can contribute to causing an accident. Unfortunately, the combination of inexperience and propensity for risk taking means that teen drivers are among the most dangerous, and the statistics bear this out. That's why insurance companies generally charge more for the policies of teen drivers, because the companies understand the risks of teens on the road and adjust their premiums accordingly. 

  Elderly drivers On the flip side of the accident-causing spectrum, elderly drivers are also an age group that causes the many car accidents. Though they may have decades of driving experience, safe cars and a risk-avoidance mentality, these very factors can actually contribute to causing accidents. Throw in diminished reaction times, failing vision and hearing, and a sense of entitlement and elderly drivers can be just as dangerous as the newly-minted 16 year old out on the road for the first time. As the body ages, the mind and reflexes slow down. Hand-eye coordination decreases significantly, and it is a lot harder for older people to respond rapidly to conditions on the road or other drivers in dangerous situations. Then accidents occur. Older drivers tend to think of themselves as perfectly safe drivers, obeying the rules of the road while the world around them takes dangerous risks. While this is partially true, elderly drivers make can make judgment errors about the flow of traffic and distances between vehicles much easier than younger drivers. If this happens and there is no way to fix this incorrect perception of reality, older drivers can make assumptions that cause accidents. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of everyone on the road to be as safe a driver as they possibly can. Young drivers need to learn that they are not invincible, and older drivers need to realize that their skills and perception have likely decreased over time, and need to make adjustments to accommodate. Article 

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4339406

WINTERIZING YOUR WORK TRUCK

Winter weather can wreak havoc on work trucks if they are not properly prepared to handle the conditions. Sub-zero temperatures, substantial snowfall, and icy roads are normal operating environments for many throughout the winter months. Regardless of the weather, the work must go on. 

Use this checklist to help you prepare your work truck for the winter season.

---

ANTIFREEZE

A 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water is typically fine for three months out of the year (spring, summer, fall) for most. Come winter, many need to consider a higher concentrated mix of antifreeze to water. The lower the temperate, the more concentrated it should be. Always check temperature ratings on the container of the antifreeze and never exceed a 70/30 antifreeze to water concentration.

BATTERY

Batteries are put through the greatest operating strain during consistent cold temperatures. Due to this, batteries tend to fail more often in winter months potentially leaving you stranded. Regularly check battery cables to ensure they are securely connected and clean any corrosion from the terminals. To prevent battery failure during winter, perform a voltage test during the fall. If the battery reads at the lower end of acceptable voltage, be preventative and replace it.

TIRES

Snowy and icy roads can be difficult to safely navigate. Tires that are worn or improperly inflated can compound this safety issue and increase the risk of an accident. Ensure your tires have ample tread, 4/32″ or more. Cold temperatures can also lower tire pressure, so regularly read your tire pressure to avoid under-inflation. If your area receives heavy snowfall and ice, consider investing in tire chains to increase traction.

WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID

Windshield washer fluid is often overlooked during the winterizing process. Since you utilize your windshield washer fluid much more often in winter, you need to ensure the fluid is rated to withstand the temperatures in your area. Many times, the fluid freezes and the issue is not discovered until your windshield needs cleaned while you are driving down the road with drastically reduced visibility, an accident waiting to happen.

ENGINE OIL

Much like antifreeze, most common engine oils perform great during the spring, summer and fall. As cold temperature descend during winter, your standard 15W or 10W oil struggles to properly flow. As fall arrives, plan on switching out your normal engine oil with 5W (or even 0W oil for extremely cold conditions) to ensure your engine receives the proper lubrication throughout the winter.

ENGINE/OIL HEATERS

When you park your work truck overnight and the temperatures drop, your engine and oil temperature do too. Many work trucks operating in Northern climates have block or oil pan heaters installed, either as a factory option or add-on accessory. Be sure to plug in these components overnight during cold temperatures to ensure your engine has an easier time starting in the morning.

FOUR WHEEL DRIVE

Four wheel drive is a necessity in regions that receive heavy snowfall. Getting stuck on a jobsite can present a safety concern and decreases productivity. Before your next snow, test your four wheel drive system to ensure the differentials, hubs, bearings and other components are in top working condition.

PAINT & FINISH

Today’s work trucks receive top-notch corrosion protection with the paint and undercoating. During winter, harmful salt and chemicals are deployed to the roads in attempt to melt snow and ice. These road treatments eventually find their way to your work truck, expediting the corrosion and rust process if not addressed. Regularly wash your work truck during winter months, including the undercarriage to prevent build-up of salt and chemicals.

COLD WEATHER KIT

A cold weather kit can be a lifesaver in the event that you get your work truck stuck and help cannot come immediately. In your cold weather kit you should pack a thermal blanket, flashlight with additional batteries, matches, bottled water, jumper cables or a jump box, windshield scraper and brush, tow straps or chains, and roadside flares.

Source: https://www.knapheide.com/blog/winterizing-your-work-truck

Best Car Safety Features | Consumer Reports

There are many ways to prevent car accidents. Consumer Reports looks at the latest technology designed to save people’s lives.

Take a close look at a heavy Wrecker Truck

Before continuing work on my class 8 wrecker model project I thought I would get some good pictures of a real wrecker, especially the business end.

Auto insurance catch: Why they may deny your repair estimate

If you are in a car accident, your insurer is supposed to make sure the car is repaired, assuming you carry collision coverage. The law in most states says you can go to any repair shop you choose.

What Happens if Your Car is Totaled?

What does it mean to have a totaled car after an accident? Here we discuss the meaning, the effects, and the steps you should take if you find yourself in such an unfortunate situation. #KBB

Kelley Blue Book

Why Getting Your Vehicle Serviced Regularly Is Essential

The mechanical condition of a vehicle dictates its safety 

as well as its performance on the road. In order to guarantee

• a smooth ride,
• prolong the life of a car,
• and increase its safety

The owner should always consider getting the vehicle serviced regularly. The main reason why this procedure is required is to ensure that any mechanical anomalies can be spotted and rectified before they can cause harm.

The routine maintenance is a small price to pay to guarantee one's safety on the roads. So what are the benefits of acquiring this service?

• It reduces the repair costs - maintenance procedures are preventative in nature and this means that it is a good way of avoiding major repair bills as a result of oversight.
• It reduces the chances of getting surprise breakdowns.
• Regular car services will lower the possible risk of getting involved in an accident
• Servicing involves various procedures that guarantee better fuel consumption. In essence it is cheaper to run a car that regularly goes for servicing

There are several kinds of servicing available and they include the following:

6 month or interim car service

This is a procedure that is intended for those individuals who cover a lot of mileage over short periods. This means that the car will require more regular checks to avoid unforeseen faults. Some of the work includes filter and oil changes as well as a comprehensive diagnostic check for all essential functions.

12 month or comprehensive car service

This is an all inclusive checkup that should be mandatory for all cars that are used on a regular basis. Most service providers do no less than 70 checks as well as some necessary adjustments. Replacement of worn out components is also done where necessary. The procedure includes Spark plug and air filter replacement among other processes.

Winter Inspection

Ensure that your car is ready to withstand winter conditions by getting a specialised check. Winter safety checks should be a mandatory practice for all car owners.

Car owners have a wide variety of options when it comes choosing a vehicle servicing company, whether you are driving a Land Rover or a Volswagen Polo. There are even new companies offering to service your car at your home or work place.

Of course, for those owners that are mechanically savvy, there is the option of servicing the car themselves. But you have to be qualified to do so and you must know exactly what you are doing.

Whether you use a professional's help or do it yourself, getting your car is very important.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7432715

How to Find a Mechanic You Can Trust

According to a recent survey, two-thirds of U.S. drivers don’t trust auto repair shops. And one-third say they don’t have a mechanic they feel confident taking their car to. No matter how you feel about mechanics, odds are you’re going to need one — and likely at inopportune moments. Matt Schmitz of Cars.com provides tips to finding a repair shop you can trust.

AAA StartSmart - Distracted Driving

Follow a group of six high school students and their parents as they attend the AAA StartSmart Academy where they learn how to develop safe driving habits from an over-the-top instructor named Crash — short for "Creating Responsible Automobile Safety Habits".

Mega Tow Trucks - The World's Toughest Towing Vehicles | Full Documentary

1000 tons in tow - They tow busses down the highway and haul heavy military equipment through the forest. They move the world’s largest aircraft, recover tanks from war zones, and haul enormous launch vehicles. these heavy-duty transporters are among the most powerful towing and recovery vehicles in the world. These tow trucks often transport 30 times their own weight – and the loads they carry are huge. These specialty vehicles are called into action when exceptionally heavy loads need to be transported or recovered. Their missions are often dangerous ones – so safety is a top priority. 📺 Watch more documentaries    • Full Documentaries   🔔 Subscribe our full documentary channel    / @weltdocumentary  

WELT Documentary

Report: Larger Vehicles Safer In Crashes

Every day, about 100 people are killed in an auto accident. A new report finds the size of your car can play a major role, Danielle Nottingham reports

WCCO - CBS Minnesota

Safety consequences of vehicle size and weight

New crash tests demonstrate the influence of vehicle size and weight on safety in crashes; results are relevant to fuel economy policies ARLINGTON, VA — Three front-to-front crash tests, each involving a microcar or minicar into a midsize model from the same manufacturer, show how extra vehicle size and weight enhance occupant protection in collisions. These Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests are about the physics of car crashes, which dictate that very small cars generally can't protect people in crashes as well as bigger, heavier models.

IIHS

SAFE STEPS Road Safety: Speed Limits

We all have a role in road safety! So follow these SAFE STEPS to play your part and help save lives. - Obey speed limits - - Slow down at high risk areas - - Keep a safe distance - SAFE STEPS Road Safety is a pan-Asian public service initiatives aimed to raise awareness and provide clear and simple life-saving educational messages on road safety. Acclaimed actress and producer, Michelle Yeoh is the SAFE STEPS Road Safety Ambassador. This programme is created and developed by Prudence Foundation, in partnership with National Geographic Channel and the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). All SAFE STEPS Road Safety tips have been approved by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). For more information please visit: www.safesteps.com

SAFE STEPS

Top 6 Safety Tips For Truck Drivers

At Migway, the safety of our drivers is non-negotiable. Watch as our safety director Viktor explains how Migway trains drivers on safety and what priorities are important here at Migway!

MigWay

What Are the Most Common Causes of Auto Accidents?

What are the most common causes of auto accidents? Safety experts agree that the number-one cause of accidents is human error.

Almost all crashes can be prevented by more careful behavior and responsible conduct and driving habits. In more recent years, this is commonly known as "Distracted Driving" and it takes on many different forms.

The most common mistakes drivers make include drinking and driving; speeding; drag racing other vehicles; driving while fatigued; and distractions involving applying make-up, talking, singing, passenger misconduct or immaturity, eating or drinking, texting, browsing social media sites or other activities involving smart phones. But in many cases, simply not paying attention and being mentally distracted by personal matters can cause drivers to drift out of the lane, run red lights and stop signs or break other basic traffic rules.

These "Distractions" and many others have caused many, many terrible, needless and life-changing accidents that were otherwise avoidable or preventable.

How we Tow HD Trucks, Motor Homes and Buses - NRC Quickswap detachable tow unit

A&T Road Service added Truck 32 in 2014. It was a brand new 2014 Kenworth with a 500 hp Cummins and 18-speed gearbox is outfitted with an NRC Quickswap detachable tow unit with a tag axle for extra capacity. This allows the truck to be a wrecker and also a transfer vehicle, so with the unit disconnected, it will tow mobile home units, trailers of all kinds and with the wrecker unit attached is capable of lifting up to 20,000 lb steer axles for heavy duty truck towing. This unit can easily to HD trucks, buses, mobile homes.

It is outfitted with tools and parts to make minor mechanical repairs, air line repair, fuel line repairs, add fuel, and can take care of any DEF needs. It is also equipped with extra high intensity lights for more effective and efficient night work, since A&T Road Service is available 24 hours a day.

North Bay Truck Center is centrally located in Fairfield CA to service all of Solano County along with much of the San Francisco/Oakland bay area and Sacramento. A&T Road Service is available by calling 800-434-1205, You can also visit our website at http://www.NorthBayTruckCenter.com

How Semitrucks Are Crash Tested | Carsplainers | Insider Cars

Just like consumer cars have to undergo crash testing, so do commercial semitrucks. While some of these tests are the same that production cars undergo, others are designed specifically for trucks. Thanks to trucking companies like Volvo and Scania as well as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, safety standards for these trucks are only improving. Correction: In the video, we said that the trucks weighed 120 tons. The trucks are 8 to 12 tons and crashed at speeds of 30 to 50 miles per hour. We regret the error. Thank you. MORE CARSPLAINERS VIDEOS: How Cars Score A Zero-Star Crash Test Rating | Carsplainers    • How Cars Score A Zero-Star Crash Test...   How A $2 million Electric Hypercar Gets Crash Tested | Carsplainers    • How A $2 million Electric Hypercar Ge...   How An Engineer Built An Electric Porsche That's Quicker Than A Tesla    • How An Engineer Built An Electric Por...   ---------------------------------------­­­­--------- #Semitrucks #CrashTest #CarsInsider

Insider Cars

SAFE STEPS Road Safety: Pedestrians

We all have a role in road safety! So follow these SAFE STEPS to play your part and help save lives. - Stay alert and avoid distractions - - Walk in safe places - - Stop, Look, Listen, Cross - SAFE STEPS Road Safety is a pan-Asian public service initiatives aimed to raise awareness and provide clear and simple life-saving educational messages on road safety. Acclaimed actress and producer, Michelle Yeoh is the SAFE STEPS Road Safety Ambassador. This program is created and developed by Prudence Foundation, in partnership with National Geographic Channel and the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). All SAFE STEPS Road Safety tips have been approved by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). For more information please visit: www.safesteps.com

Fleet Drivers: Are You Getting Enough Sleep?

As more businesses resume operations, and more vehicle fleets are getting back on the road, it is important to remember that an alert fleet driver is a safe fleet driver. While no one is immune to drowsy driving, there are steps you can take to help ensure you get enough sleep.

Across North America, this week and next have been designated Drowsy Driving Prevention Week in the US and Canada respectively. A recent study by the National Safety Council revealed that almost 50% of Americans operate their vehicles while too tired to do so. This is a troubling statistic, especially considering the NSC has determined that driving with less than five hours sleep has the same accident risk as driving drunk. In other words, drowsy driving is impaired driving and half of us are driving around without enough sleep!

When you don't get enough sleep, you are more likely to make bad decisions and take more risks. The effects of drowsy driving are staggering, with an estimated 100,000 accidents and 1,500 deaths caused by drowsy driving each year. In addition to the impact on loved ones and family members, driving drowsy results in close to $13 billion in losses per year in the US alone.

The COVID-19 pandemic has added to the problem. Many are struggling with additional stress caused by uncertainty and fear, which is preventing them from getting enough sleep. Neurologists are seeing a spike in patients with sleep disorders caused by COVID-19, and are calling this phenomenon “COVID-somnia.”

What do companies need to remember to prevent drowsy driving?

As more businesses resume operations, and more vehicle fleets are getting back on the road, it is important to remember that an alert fleet driver is a safe fleet driver. Employees may not have driven in a few months, they may be operating a different vehicle, or they may be new hires with little driving experience. Given these additional challenges, it is even more important that drivers are well-rested, alert, and fully aware of their surroundings.

Getting enough sleep is even more important depending on your work environment. Long-haul trucking with heavy loads for example, the sheer size and weight of the truck and cargo combined demands a focused, and alert driver. Similarly, getting enough sleep can be a challenge for others who work long hours, night shifts, or have a very early start time every morning.

The NSC has compiled a list of nine risk factors for driver fatigue, and a staggering 97% of drivers surveyed had at least one of these factors which include: shift work, late working hours, sleep loss, and physically or cognitively demanding work. While no one is immune to drowsy driving, there are steps you can take to help ensure you get enough sleep.

What can fleet drivers do to stay healthy and well-rested during the pandemic and in “normal” times?

The best way to ensure you are well-rested and ready to drive, is to get enough sleep. So how much is enough? The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) recommends that adults get at least between seven and eight hours of sleep every day. Our bodies crave sleep - not getting enough of it can also increase the risk of having high blood pressure, heart disease and lead to other medical problems.

Here are some great tips from NHLBI and UC Davis Health that will help you get a better sleep:

Sleep and wake at consistent times every day, including weekends. Establishing a regular sleep rhythm can make sure your body knows when to stay awake.

Maintain your daily routine when working remotely. Wake up, get dressed and eat breakfast as if you were heading to work. The same goes for after work, try to eat dinner and carry out your evening tasks on a regular schedule.

Establish one hour of quiet time before sleeping. Avoid loud music, strenuous exercise, and bright screens (e.g., smartphone, TV, laptop) and make sure your sleeping area is as dark as possible.

Stay away from heavy meals, alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine right before bed. All of these things will disrupt your sleep.

Use caution with sleep aids. Over-the-counter sleep aids can leave you drowsy the next morning and prescription drugs can lead to dependence.

Stay active - exercising on a daily basis, especially outdoors, can help maintain a more regular sleep rhythm.

Don't take naps - a short nap is ok, but anything over 20 minutes will disrupt your sleep cycle.

Take a hot bath or practice relaxation techniques - such as meditating before going to bed.

If you are already on the road, and feeling a little drowsy, there are a number of things you can do to help stay alert. The National Sleep Foundation recommends the following:

Drive in two-hour shifts with resting stops in between. If you begin to feel drowsy while driving or find yourself dozing, pull over and park as soon as possible to take a short nap.

Drink a caffeinated beverage. While caffeine is not a substitute for sleep, a caffeinated beverage can help you feel more awake after a short nap.

Travel with a passenger who is fully awake. Having someone who can help keep you awake or alert you if you’re drowsy can help prevent an accident. If possible, drive in shifts with your passenger.

Getting enough sleep every day is essential. It's also easier said than done, especially considering the psychological stress that COVID-19 has caused for so many of us. The best thing you can do is try and maintain a regular routine, exercise regularly, and avoid consuming stimulants before bedtime. We hope these tips will help you stay alert and focused on the road. Drive safely!

By Element Fleet Safety - 

By the Element Safety Team

Source: https://www.elementfleet.com/resources/blog/fleet-drivers-are-you-getting-enough-sleep

15 Defensive Driving Secrets That Can Save Your Life

The most important rule for when you’re in a drift is not to brake. We mean than blocked wheels don’t let the driver control the car at all. There are only two ways of dealing with drifts, and they are different for each type of drive.

BRIGHT SIDE

SAFE STEPS Road Safety: Seatbelts​

We all have a role in road safety! So follow these SAFE STEPS to play your part and help save lives. - Wear your seatbelt - - Ensure all passengers wear seatbelts - - Safely secure children in car seats - SAFE STEPS Road Safety is a pan-Asian public service initiatives aimed to raise awareness and provide clear and simple life-saving educational messages on road safety. Acclaimed actress and producer, Michelle Yeoh is the SAFE STEPS Road Safety Ambassador. This programme is created and developed by Prudence Foundation, in partnership with National Geographic Channel and the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). All SAFE STEPS Road Safety tips have been approved by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). For more information please visit: www.safesteps.com

Opacity Testing At North Bay Truck Center

 

Opacity Testing At North Bay Truck Center

Vehicle owners are required to report vehicles subject to the Clean Truck Check program in the Clean Truck Check - Vehicle Inspection System (CTC-VIS) reporting database . The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is extending the Clean Truck Check reporting deadline to January 31, 2024, to allow vehicle owners additional time to complete their initial fleet reporting and meet the 2023 compliance fee payment requirements.

The Clean Truck Check program applies to nearly all diesel and alternative fuel heavy-duty vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 14,000 pounds that operate in California. This includes both in-state and out-of-state vehicles, as well as public vehicles (federal, state, and local government); motorcoaches; transit, shuttle and school buses; hybrid vehicles; commercial vehicles; personal vehicles; California-registered motorhomes; single vehicle fleets; and vehicles registered outside of California (not including motorhomes).

The Clean Truck Check program does not apply to:

• Zero-emission vehicles,
• Gasoline vehicles,
• Military tactical vehicles,
• Authorized emergency vehicles,
• Motorhomes registered outside of California,
• Historical vehicles,
• Vehicles operating under a CARB-issued experimental permit, and
• Vehicles operating under an Executive Order or Emergency Declaration.

For more information from the CA ARB, go to https://cleantruckcheck.arb.ca.gov/

Or Call us at 707-427-1386 and we will be happy to help you.