Independent Carrier Safety Association

As we close out another year, we at ICSA want to thank our dedicated members for their hard work and commitment to keeping our roads safe. Here’s to a new year filled with opportunities, safe miles, and continued success on the road. Happy New Year!

PROJECT 61's Step Up Challenge might be almost done, but it is still important for drivers to make healthy choices. The average life expectancy of a truck driver is 61 years, 15-20 years less than the average US life expectancy, so taking care of yourself is essential. Learn more about this important project at https://project-61.org/

Sleet is most common in the winter, forming when a warm layer of air above a colder surface layer causes precipitation to melt and refreeze as it falls. These icy pellets can reduce traction and visibility, making roads dangerous for all drivers. Stay alert, slow down, and drive safe in wintry conditions!

Happy Holidays from the ICSA team! Whether you're celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, or enjoying some well-earned time with loved ones, we wish you peace, joy, and safe travels this holiday season.

Safety Tip: Avoid swerving or hard braking if you come across an object in the road. Sudden movements could cause a crash when one might have been avoided. If you are unable to avoid the object, turn on your flashers, cautiously move to the side of the road, and stay in your vehicle until safe to exit. See a real-life example of what not to do on ICSA's latest episode of "ICSA Asks: What Would You Have Done?" Let us know in the comments how you would handle this situation.

Tomorrow marks the Winter Solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year. Winter driving presents unique safety challenges, but with the right preparation, you can navigate the season with confidence. Ice and snow increase stopping distances, so give yourself plenty of room to react. Drivers should also accelerate and brake gently to maintain traction and avoid skidding. Stay safe out there!

Did you know that the first sleeper cabs were nicknamed "coffin boxes"? That first picture makes it easy to see why! On top of being uncomfortable, these sleepers also had many safety concerns since they had almost no protection in the event of a crash. Today, in-cab sleepers have come a long way in terms of both comfort and safety. Modern semi-sleeper cabs prioritize safety with features like collision mitigation systems, interior seatbelts, and carbon monoxide detectors. These innovations ensure drivers rest securely and stay protected from on-road and environmental hazards.

Always remember three points of contact when entering or exiting your truck. Keep both hands and one foot, or both feet and one hand, securely on the truck at all times. Even if you're in a hurry, avoid jumping out so that you maintain control and stability. Safety starts with small steps!

December 14, 2024 is Wreaths Across America Day. Each December, United States veterans are honored by placing wreaths on their graves. Truckers play a large part in this process by transporting wreaths to various cemeteries, and ICSA is proud to support this organization.

Please join ICSA tomorrow at 11 AM MST for a webinar with Todd Amen of ATBS. You will learn about ICSA's newest partner and receive 2024 tax advice. Register now with passcode ICSA. https://lnkd.in/gw8qJ3jz