“When you see fleets double in size in a very short period of time, typically they haven’t grown on the inside as well as the outside, and that’s a very dangerous combination,” Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels said.
“I understand that there are times the phone can’t be answered or there are other priorities pulling dispatchers away, but try to keep communication open,” Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels said.
When drivers are recognized for their hard work, they’re more likely to feel satisfaction at their jobs, and it gives them a reason to work toward company goals.
The VP of safety at Reliance Partners joined Dooner during Monday’s episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? to discuss trends that could be contributing to crash fatalities.
The potential for higher pay and less idle time is appealing. However, constantly sharing a confined space with another person doesn’t work for everyone.
“There have been companies that have introduced [dashcams] with great success and haven’t lost any drivers at all, and then there are other companies that have lost quite a few drivers because of it,” Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels said.
“As a driver, you make your living off your license to drive a tractor-trailer, so it’s critical to make sure it’s in a good standing,” said Robert Kaferle, vice president of safety at Reliance Partners.
Truck drivers should approach bridges and underpasses with caution when the temperature hovers at or below freezing.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels says that a disorganized permit book is a red flag to roadside inspectors.
You don’t have to tackle your safety goals alone. Partner with a safety expert that can develop a plan with realistic and attainable objectives.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels adds a few steps to your pre-trip inspection to combat harsh winter weather.
It’s probably poor planning rather than bad luck. Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels says you shouldn’t be shocked to find no parking available if you waited until the last minute.
The side of the road can be a very dangerous place to be, especially if you don’t make your presence known.
Poor driving is often a reflection of management. So when fatal accidents occur, it’s not just drivers with blood on their hands.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels offers tips ahead of the inspections on May 17-19.
Reliance Partners’ Robert Kaferle and Brian Runnels urge drivers to stay focused on the road, practice defensive driving and resist distractions no matter how insignificant they seem.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels and Robert Kaferle discuss ways to avoid unnecessary stresses with proper planning.
Driving a big rig isn’t a vacation, nor is it as flexible as one would expect — there’s a job to do.
Reliance Partners’ Safety Team is set to roll out a Trucking 101 series to tackle the skills every trucker should know but hasn’t been taught.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels reacts to Central Freight’s closure and shares his thoughts on the drivers’ next steps on FreightWaves’ WHAT THE TRUCK?!?.
The trucking industry is in need of new talent. But don’t expect sign-on bonuses to attract drivers in it for the long haul.
Reliance Partners’ Robert Kaferle and Brian Runnels share what they’re thankful for this year, highlighting the many qualities that make the trucking industry great.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels and Robert Kaferle spotlight blind spots to expose their hidden dangers.
Recruiting, cybersecurity and human trafficking were major discussion topics at this year’s conference in Dallas.
Brian Runnels and Robert Kaferle lead Reliance Partners’ revamped loss control and safety services team.
It’s vital to look both ways and make sure your vehicle will have enough space to fully clear the tracks before crossing. Also, be sure to roll up your landing gear to avoid getting stuck.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels joins WHAT THE TRUCK?!? to encourage greater participation in mock trials.
Brake Safety Week is set for Aug. 22-28, meaning drivers and carriers have only a few more days to tighten up on brake safety.
FreightWaves meteorologist Nick Austin and Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels urge the industry to hunker down in August and September — hurricane season’s peak months.
The convenience of GPS often overshadows its flaws. Double-check your route with the hard facts of a map.
Nearly 25 years to the day of his accident, Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels recalls the crash that altered his driving habits and the emotional scars that it left on those affected.
Turning to younger drivers may be the key to assuring the success of the next generation of truckers.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels and Mark Barlar speak from their driver and State Patrol experience on the dangers that speed, distractions and fatigue present in construction zones.
Are you ready for next week’s International Roadcheck? Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels offers some tips to remain violation free.
“Take some time each week to clean out the cab, and stay on top of it, just like you would your house. It’s a healthier atmosphere to be in if it’s clean,” says Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels.
In light of recent wind-related accidents, Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels advises truckers to check their weight, slow down and monitor weather reports before hitting the road.
It’s hard to predict when and where ice will strike, but the magnitude of such events can be mitigated. Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels explains why it’s imperative that drivers slow down and increase their following distance during adverse conditions.
Slips, trips and falls can bring about lifelong injuries for truckers, but thankfully, they’re easily preventable. Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels details basic safety tips around the truck and trailer.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels fears that relaxed regulations may result in an uptick in CDL fraud in driver schools.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels explains that driver trainers should be everything from instructor and mentor to trainer, psychologist and friend to their students.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels demonstrates how to chain up when winter weather strikes.
Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels says, “Communication between a driver and their fleet manager or safety department should be an open line for expressing what you want from them, but also what should they expect from you?”
Runaway truck ramps are a trucker’s last resort. Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels reminds truckers that the best way to tackle the downhill drive is through preventative maintenance, obeying road signage and simply taking things slow.
Life on the road isn’t for everyone — including dogs. Truckers should ask themselves whether their furry friend will enjoy life on the go.
“The best way for drivers to protect themselves and their cargo is to always pay attention to where you are, what’s going on around you and ask yourself if your parking arrangement is as safe as you can make it,” said Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels.
