Briefs: truck parking, predatory towing and national diesel pricing

Trucking industry updates

Parking legislation for trucks: will it become reality?

The availability of truck parking in the United States remains a concern in the trucking industry. Some truckers have resorted to private paid options due to the lack of government incentives. However, several states are working on legislation to address this issue, including Minnesota, Georgia, New Jersey, and New York.

In Minnesota, the government has allocated funds for truck parking expansion, with $7.75 million designated for construction and expansion of spaces in specific areas. Additionally, $4.8 million is earmarked for truck parking safety projects on major highways, with a focus on Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Georgia has enacted a new law establishing a state freight and logistics transportation plan for the next 20 years, with annual updates on key projects. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, a Senate bill seeks to ensure the inclusion of truck parking in warehouse urbanization plans as a condition for preliminary site plan approval.

Lastly, in New York, several bills aim to increase fines for illegal truck parking in specific areas. Bill S518 proposes fines of $1,000 for semi-trailers parked on city streets, while Bill S519 suggests fines of $400 for trucks parked overnight in residential streets, with fines of $800 for repeat offenses within six months.

Despite these efforts, the current availability of truck parking falls short of requirements. While some states have funding, it does not reflect what truckers truly need: the construction of more parking spaces. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) has emphasized that expanding safe truck parking enhances road safety for all users and is a priority issue.

States crack down on predatory towing

Another issue plaguing the transportation industry is the practice of predatory towing. At least four states have already taken action this year, implementing changes aimed at creating basic consumer protections.

In Tennessee, a regulation restricting booting to commercial lots will take effect on July 1st. Additionally, licensed parking attendants must be present to remove boots within 45 minutes. The fee for boot removal is capped at $75, and towing companies must release vehicles to owners for a fee not exceeding $100 if the vehicle has not left the parking area. The law also prohibits booting or immobilizing commercial vehicles with USDOT numbers or commercial license plates.

Similarly, in Florida, a new law effective July 1st requires counties to establish maximum rates. Additionally, towing operators must maintain a visible fee sheet at their workplace, available to anyone who requests it. The law also ensures that towing operators allow vehicle inspection and release within an hour of necessary documentation submission.

Virginia joins in with a new law that prohibits soliciting towing services at accident or breakdown sites on highways, with fines of up to $500 and harsher penalties for repeat offenders. Another law prohibits towing trucks from passing by accident sites and offering towing services if the police have already initiated the towing process. These measures aim to prevent interference with law enforcement’s work in emergencies.

Additionally, on July 1st in Mississippi, a new law prohibiting billing per pound for unauthorized towing will take effect, establishing a resolution process for truck owners disputing fees and recovery expenses. The law also provides for disciplinary measures against towing service providers and prohibits law enforcement officers from receiving compensation for selecting a specific towing service.

OOIDA continues to work with states to establish regulations and legislation that protect truckers involved in predatory towing practices.

Diesel prices continue to decline

According to data from the Energy Information Administration, the national average diesel price continued its downward trend, reaching $3.726 per gallon in the week of June 3rd. Average prices by region in the United States are as follows:

East Coast: $3.741
Central Atlantic: $4.086
California: $4.968
Gulf Coast: $3.450
Midwest: $3.592
Rocky Mountains: $3.685
West Coast: $4.429