Briefs: Kenworth and Peterbilt truck recalls, ATRI survey and diesel prices

Updates from the trucking industry world.

Paccar recalls over 11,000 Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks

Paccar is recalling over 11,000 Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks of various models, according to documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, due to a rearview mirror failure. The affected models include Kenworth T180, T280, T380, T480, and Peterbilt 535, 536, 537, and 548, from the model years 2022-24.

According to reports, the issue arises in the glass locking ring in the cabin mirror assembly, which may not be fully secured, leading to the detachment of the mirror glass. Although this failure may seem minor, it increases the risk of collisions on roads as it compromises the driver’s visibility in critical areas.

Paccar dealerships will inspect the rearview mirror glass locking ring, and if necessary, carry out the required repair at no cost. Owners who incurred expenses addressing the recall issue before receiving the notification can request reimbursement. Notification letters are expected to be sent starting March 15.

ATRI launches survey on the effects of truck driver detention

The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) has urged truckers and owner-operators to participate in a newly launched data collection initiative focused on the repercussions of truck driver detention in the industry. This effort is part of a broader study on the impacts of truck driver detention in the trucking industry.

Truck driver detention, defined as the wait time at shipper or receiver facilities, has been a persistent issue in the trucking industry. Consequently, the ATRI Research Advisory Committee (RAC) has recognized the need for a new study to document the widespread negative consequences of driver detention on carriers, truckers, shippers, and the economy as a whole.

The brief survey asks truckers to share details about their experiences with detention, how it relates to their operations, and the strategies they use to mitigate the problem. At the end of this year, the Institute plans to publish two additional surveys as part of this research: one for company drivers and another for shippers/receivers.

Diesel prices continue to decline

According to the weekly report from ProMiles.com, the national average price for a gallon of diesel on January 22nd was $3.851, compared to the previous week’s $3.856, reflecting a decrease of 0.05 cents.

The most significant decreases in diesel prices occurred in the West, with an 8-cent decline in the West Coast region. California saw a decrease of 6.9 cents, while the Rocky Mountains and the West Coast excluding California recorded declines of 4 to 5 cents each. On the other hand, the Gulf Coast experienced a 2.6-cent increase, and the Midwest region saw a 1-cent rise.

The average diesel price per region is as follows, according to ProMiles’ report: