Published: Jan 20, 2020

Safety has always been Ameri-Can’s top priority. Protecting our drivers, others on the road, and our client’s cargo is simply more important than anything else. That’s why we applaud the efforts of governments and agencies across North America who are working to keep all of us safe.

Drug and Alcohol Use

In the United States, random drug testing of commercial drivers will double to 50 percent. An increase in drug use in 2018 resulted in the change by the U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

In addition, any drug or alcohol infractions must now be reported to the US Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. This includes carriers who operate in the US, and allows employers, regulatory agencies and law enforcement to access the information. Employers are required to check the database to ensure that no current or potential employee is prohibited from driving due to a drug or alcohol use violation.

Electronic Logging Devices

While Transport Canada’s rule of using only third-party certified ELDs doesn’t come into effect until June 2021, as of December 17th, ELDs are mandatory in the United States for most drivers, including Canadians.

Distracted Driving

Transport Canada is continuing its work to develop training materials to combat distracted driving. The two year project is moving into its second phase which will include a survey of current practices. Virginia Tech Transportation Institute will conduct the research to identify issues and solutions.

Driver Training

There is a continued focus on driver training, nationally and provincially, in Canada. The Canadian Council for Motor Transport Administrators is working on mandatory pre-licence training for commercial drivers, and a driving school in Winnipeg was recently shut down when Manitoba Public Insurance found eight violations during an audit.

Certification and Inspections

Also in Manitoba, the government was slammed by the provincial auditor general for failing to conduct adequate checks before operators are certified or to inspect on-road commercial vehicles often enough.

Wishing you all a Happy, Healthy, and Safe New Year!

Ameri-Can Logistics Ltd. is a trucking company servicing shipping ports, railroad depots, and communities throughout North America. Operating 24/7/365 with continuous dispatch services, businesses have relied on Ameri-Can to distribute their products to buyers in Canada, the United States, and Mexico, for three decades.