PRIMO LEADING NEWS
WEEK MAY 17TH TO 23RD
Systemic failures in routine operations and safety practices, not just accidents, are leading to increasing nuclear verdicts in the trucking industry, as highlighted by Doug Marcello and other speakers at the American Trucking Associations’ conference. Carriers are advised to monitor safety data actively and avoid complacency by integrating real-time safety measures and thorough training for on-call responders.
The CVSA International Roadcheck, scheduled for May 14-16, 2024, will focus on tractor protection systems and enforcement against alcohol and controlled substance violations among commercial drivers across North America.
In 2022, U.S. seaports handled 40% of international freight value, indicating their critical role in global trade. From 2018 to 2020, cargo volumes remained steady, but surged during 2021 and 2022 due to pandemic-related disruptions, before stabilizing slightly above pre-pandemic levels in 2023.
Ongoing fluctuations in the trucking industry have led to a decrease in shipper spending by 27.9% in the first quarter, and now, the US Bank indicates that this will be the either straight quarter with such decreases.
Vice President Kamala Harris announced over $100 million in federal grants to assist small and midsize auto parts makers in retooling for electric vehicle production and enhancing facility efficiency. The grants aim to strengthen the U.S. supply chain and economy by keeping auto supply jobs and operations within the country, supported by new programs for lower-cost loans and workforce training.