What Trucking Issues are Percolating
(July 27, 2022 ) - Several issues are surfacing in transportation on the federal and state level according to SC&RA V.P. Chris Smith. During the Trucking Association Executives Council this week, Smith reports that some interesting topics came to the forefront including:
• A new report from ATRI,
Understanding the CO2 Impacts of Zero-Emission Trucks, compares emerging battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell trucks versus traditional diesel trucks, examining everything from vehicle weight to electrical infrastructure needed for a nationwide trucking fleet overhaul. For a full examination of this issue, attend the upcoming SC&RA Economic Forum, September 13.
• An alarming trend of third-party financing firms funding attorneys who sue trucking companies. This is incentivizing many plaintiff’s attorneys to seek higher damages to pay off the loans rather than settle, placing trucking companies at a higher risk of crushing nuclear verdicts and higher insurance premiums.
• Also discussed was ATRI’s report on the impact of
owner operators and independent contractors in the supply chains, examining the implications of forthcoming implementation of California’s AB5 rule. For more information on AB5, register for the upcoming SC&RA webinar,
Preparing to do Business Under California’s Independent Contractor Law, August 17.
SC&RA will continue to monitor these and other OS/OW trucking issues. Questions? Contact
Chris Smith.