Ensure distraction-free driving

Backpack-laden children will soon be out in force walking to school buildings from homes and parked cars, or riding bikes, scooters, or skateboards. Unfortunately, children aren’t always the most safety conscious. That’s why it is up to drivers to be vigilant, avoiding distractions like phones, eating and drinking, or even attempting to use GPS while in motion. Pay extra attention when backing up as well, as you never know when a child might pop up unexpectedly behind you.

Beware of glare

Although most associate sunnier days with summer, it is actually in fall when the glare is at its worst, due to the sun’s position in the sky being lower during fall and winter months. The lower position of the sun hits the eyes of drivers at a more direct angle, sometimes completely obscuring a driver’s view of the road, other vehicles, and pedestrians. Unfortunately, peak glare time for the A.M. often corresponds to the times when schoolchildren might be walking or driving home from school. In order to increase visibility even when the glare gets severe, keep your windshield clean, remove any obstructions from your dashboard, and be sure to keep polarized sunglasses in your vehicle at all times.

Watch for school zones & bus stops

Although it is typically better to stick to highways and interstates to avoid back-to-school traffic, there will be times when taking backroads is unavoidable. Therefore, it is important to be aware of any school zones and bus stops you may encounter, especially when it may be less clear where schools are located when driving on backroads. When possible, avoid school zones altogether. If you can’t avoid them, give yourself extra time as the speed limit is at least 10 MPH slower.

Just being aware of these safety challenges can go a long way to improve the well-being of schoolchildren and drivers alike.

As a driver, you have been given a huge responsibility. Everyone is counting on you to get the goods to the proper destination quickly and safely. You take safety seriously, but even the most experienced drivers can sometimes get distracted. The number one distraction for drivers today? Our cell phones. Even in hand-free mode, multiple studies have shown that drivers could be missing up to half of the visual stimuli around them.

Here’s a disturbing statistic for you. According to the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration (NHTSA), taking your eyes off the road for a single text while traveling 55 MPH is equal to driving with your eyes closed for the length of an entire football field. Imagine your family members and loved ones surrounded by people driving with their eyes closed at high speeds, perhaps even in a large commercial vehicle. Talk about a sobering reminder of the importance of staying focused while driving!

The NHTSA reported that 3,142 people were killed in distracted driving accidents in 2019, accounting for 8.7% of all crash fatalities that year. Because of the high risk involved, handheld devices have been banned for drivers of commercial vehicles since 2011.

To put it simply, multitasking, especially while driving, is a myth. The human mind simply cannot devote equal attention to multiple tasks at the same time. Any task that takes your mind off the road should be avoided if possible. Not only is distracted driving a major safety concern, it also carries hefty penalties, which include the following:

· Up to $2,750 in fines per offense for drivers

· Up to $11,000 in fines for employers who allow or require drivers to use handheld devices

· Possible driver disqualification for repeat offenders

· Negative impact on Safety Measurement System (SMS) results

What actions count as using devices illegally?

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), you may be fined for the following actions:

· Using at least one hand to hold a mobile phone to make a call

· Dialing a mobile phone by pressing more than a single button

· Reaching for a mobile phone in a manner that requires a driver to maneuver so that he or she is no longer in a seated driving position, restrained by a seat belt

Staying in touch while avoiding distracted driving

Now you understand why distracted driving is a problem. But how can you stay in touch for important messages or calls while still maintaining a safe focus on the road? Luckily, your mobile phone can actually help with some special setting features.

For Apple Users:

Set up the Driving Focus to silence or limit messages and other notifications. Just go to Settings, then Focus. Tap the + sign in the upper right-hand corner and select “Driving.” You can customize the Driving Focus feature to allow specific contacts or allow emergency notifications. Through Driving Focus, you can also automatically share with others that your notifications are silenced so your contacts know you are waiting to respond until you safely reach your destination, or choose an auto-reply to let contacts know you are unavailable. Driving Focus can be set up to turn on automatically for a “set it and forget it” option that always keeps your driving free of mobile phone distractions.

For Android Users:

For every phone with Android 9 or newer, users can set up Focus Mode. Go to Settings, then Digital Wellbeing. You can also search “Focus Mode” under Settings. From there, you are presented with a list of distracting apps. You can choose which ones to silence in Focus Mode and which ones to leave active. Focus Mode can also be added to the Quick Settings menu to more easily turn it on and off.

With just a few taps, you can do your part to keep the roads a safer place for all drivers. You can also spread the word about the dangers of distracted driving to other drivers, your friends, and family. As awareness increases, it is our hope at Trillium Driver Solutions that safety increases as well.

According to Truckingindustry.news, Mack Trucks is about to change all of that! Recently, Mack Trucks, a part of the Volvo Group, reported that they plan on using a fully electric refuse vehicle in 2019. The New York Department of Sanitation (DSNY) has been chosen to test the vehicle once it has been introduced.

Jonathan Randall, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Mack Trucks North America reports that introducing the truck will allow the company to move forward with the future of the industry in terms of sustainable technology. 

The benefits of implementing electric vehicles on such a grand scale can not be overlooked including zero emissions, reduced noise during operation and being environmentally sustainable to just name a few. While it is difficult to gauge the impact this will have on the trucking industry overall, it is a solid indication of where some of the leading trucking manufacturers are headed in terms of becoming environmentally responsible and reducing their carbon footprint. With gas and diesel prices on the rise and projected to continue to increase in the coming years, it begs the question; what other companies will follow suit? What will this mean in terms of cost to operate and overall overhead for transportation and logistics companies? It is definitely too early to tell but it will be interesting to see within the next few years if more and more electric powered trucks will be seen hauling freight in our neighborhoods and along our highways.

The Trillium brand of companies is privately owned by René Poch and provides more than 30 years of industry leading recruitment and staffing services through its divisions including: Trillium Staffing, Trillium Construction Services, Trillium Driver Solutions, Trillium Marine, Trillium Technical, Trillium Environmental, and Trillium Techs. With approximately 90 offices nationwide and nearly 400 internal recruitment professionals, the Trillium brand is proud to be recognized by Staffing Industry Analysts as a Top 25 Largest Industrial Staffing Firm in the U.S., a Top 100 Largest Staffing Firm in the U.S., a Top 100 Fastest Growing Staffing Firm in the U.S., and a 2015 winner of National Best and Brightest Companies to Work For. For more information please visit www.trilliumstaffing.com.

Our Recruiters work closely with clients to identify a recruiting strategy aimed at attracting the specific talent they need to excel in their industry. A career as a Recruiter in driver staffing involves attracting potential candidates, screening, and evaluating a driver’s qualifications with great attention to detail. Trillium Driver Solutions takes pride in our ability to locate safe and professional drivers across the country for clients ranging from third party logistics companies to manufacturing facilities. Providing clients with predictable pricing for casual drivers, temp to hire drivers, and permanent drivers; we allow our clients the opportunity to take on additional business and routes with the security of knowing that they’ll have safe and professional drivers to represent them to their customers.

“As a Senior Recruiter for Trillium Drivers- National Accounts, I have been able to incorporate my expertise in logistics, my skills in several years of recruiting, and my desire to support the needs of current and prospective clients. The National Recruiting Center for Trillium Drivers is dedicated to assist filling CDL driving positions for long term or permanent placements so our clients can focus on their business at hand. The level of pride our staff takes in their work, our employees, and our clients’ success sets us apart from the competition.” stated Damian Hendricks, Senior Recruiter for Trillium Drivers.

A Recruiter role with Trillium Driver Solutions involves recruiting, interviewing, conducting reference checks, background checking, verifying qualifications and DOT eligibility, and conducting motor vehicle reports. Our recruiters interact with employees and clients on a daily basis to conduct dispatching efforts, counsel staff, and conduct hiring and termination procedures. Our Recruiters’ backgrounds range from former logistics supervisors to those who have previous held dispatching roles for the logistics industry. If you enjoy a challenging position, are detail oriented, enjoy interacting with others, and have an interest or previous experience in the logistics industry; consider a career as a Recruiter with Trillium Driver Solutions.

Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of top level talent? Contact us today! If you are a stand out in your profession and seeking contingent or long term career opportunities, visit our job seekers section for more information!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

Our Selling Branch Managers work closely with clients to identify a driver staffing plan that best fits the needs of their business. Providing clients with predictable pricing for casual drivers, temp to hire drivers, and permanent drivers; we allow our clients the opportunity to take on additional business and routes with the security of knowing that they’ll have safe and professional drivers to represent them to their customers.

“I love coming to work every day and appreciate the opportunity that I have with Trillium.  Yes, it might of come late in my working career but it could not be appreciated anymore by anyone, since I have worked for several companies in my career I know  I finally found the best, I enjoy every day, and take every opportunity to tell employees, clients, family and friends what a great company Trillium is and the opportunities we have.  It is so important for employees to know they are appreciated and  their efforts are noticed as well as the encouragement  we receive.” stated Selling Branch Manager, Deb Scott.

A Selling Branch Manager role with Trillium Driver Solutions involves cold calling, following up on client inquiries, providing rates and proposals, account management, and supervision of staff. Our Selling Branch Managers’ backgrounds range from former logistics supervisors to those who have previous held sales positions for the logistics industry. If you are driven to provide results, have an interest or previous logistics industry experience, and are looking for a career that provides a strong professional and personal life balance; consider a Selling Branch Manager career with Trillium Driver Solutions.

Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of top level talent? Contact us today! If you are a stand out in your profession and seeking contingent or long term career opportunities, visit our job seekers section for more information!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

The FMCSA has posted warnings on their site and continues to bring awareness to the dangers that come from using improper equipment. A 2009 study found that about 80% of bridge strikes in New York were a result of large vehicles using the wrong navigation devices. With simple prevention, drivers can avoid these life threatening accidents that often result in serious injuries, heavy equipment damage, costly road repairs, and long delays for other motorists. Click here for a copy of the FMCSA’s GPS Selection Guide for CMV’s.

Are you a stand out professional, technical professional, driver, or skilled worker seeking contingent, temporary, or long term career opportunities?  Visit our job board  for more information!  Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of professionals and skilled workers? Contact us today!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

What does this risk factor amount to? Here are a few statistics from the CDC:

  In 2011, more than 3,300 people were killed in distracted driving related crashes

With professional drivers facing fines of almost $3,000 per offense and even loss of their license for repeat offenses for the use of handheld phones while driving, the FMCSA is working hard to combat the deadly issue. Unfortunately these consequences are not significant enough for some drivers. Companies who employ drivers must take additional steps and efforts to help enforce the safety of their staff and others. So what can you do?

• Create and enforce policies in your employee handbook to prohibit distracted driving

• ·         Place phone numbers on your vehicles allowing other drivers to report distracted or poor driving behaviors

• ·         Regularly communicate the dangers of distracted driving to your staff and provide safety tips to prevent it

• Make safety a main priority for your organization

• Recognize and reward drivers for safe behaviors and compliance with your safety rules, state, and federal regulations

Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of professional drivers? Contact us today! Learn more about our Dedicated Driver Services here! Are you a safe and professional driver who is seeking a rewarding career? Visit us here to locate a driving career in your area!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

While employer confidence continues to grow following the recession, many hiring managers are still unsure of long term projections and look to temporary and contract staff to assist during peak seasons. As many as 44% of employers plan to hire on additional full-time employees by year end in 2013, many in addition to temporary staff.

What positions are most in-demand for temporary or contract staff? According to Forbes, they include:

• Team Assemblers
• Office Clerks
• Customer Service Representatives
• HR, Training, and Labor Relations Specialists
• Registered Nurses
• Nursing Aides, Orderlies, and Attendants
• Home Health Aides
• Maintenance and Repair Workers
• Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
• Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers
• Sales Representatives
• Computer Support Specialists
• Computer Programmers
• Accountants and Auditors
• Business Operations Specialists
• Electricians
• Sales Representatives in Wholesale and Manufacturing

With the in-demand positions ranging from light industrial through professional roles, there are a wide range of opportunities for those seeking employment.

Whether you are seeking employment or seeking temporary or contract workers for your company, choosing the right staffing partner can make or break your experience. Be sure to partner with a staffing agency who specializes in your line of work, is currently representing both clients and candidates in searches in your line of work, and is well established.

Are you a stand out professional, technical professional, driver, or skilled worker seeking contingent, temporary, or long term career opportunities?  Visit our job board  for more information!  Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of professionals and skilled workers? Contact us today!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

While the application and screening process can be laborious for any position, the steps involved to remain in compliance while hiring CDL drivers can be overwhelming. Did you know that in order to fulfill legal obligations you may have to:

• Obtain employment verification and drug/alcohol test results
• Obtain certificate of compliance with driver’s license requirements
• Obtain applicant’s description of previous vehicle accidents
• Obtain applicant’s statement of On Duty hours
• Obtain a copy of applicant’s DOT physical card and physical
• Obtain a copy of the applicant’s driver’s license
• Obtain a copy of the applicant’s MVR
• Obtain a negative drug screen result

While employing a driver you must also ensure that your equipment, insurance coverage, and policies remain in compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations. Simply staying informed on the latest regulation and compliance changes can be a full time job.

So what should an employer who doesn’t specialize in hiring drivers do? First and foremost, an employer should determine whether or not investing in compliance, training, and insurance premiums outweighs the benefits of them outsourcing their driving staff. Second, you should determine whether a third party logistics firm or a driver staffing agency would better service your needs. A driver staffing agency can provide you with screened and qualified drivers for long and short term needs, while maintaining control and responsibility of properly screening and employing the driving staff.

Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of professional drivers? Contact us today! Learn more about our Dedicated Driver Services here! Are you a safe and professional driver who is seeking a rewarding career? Visit us here to locate a driving career in your area!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

Despite the recent recession and high unemployment rates, trucking companies have struggled to locate qualified talent in the recent years. High turnover rates, an aging workforce, and the struggle to find long haul drivers have made the recruiting search a difficult one. Recently, the Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics predicted that US companies alone would create over 115,000 truck driver jobs each year through 2016. Where does this leave logistics employers? In a battle for talent.

With the strong and consistent demand for talent, employers have to employ a wide range of recruitment and retention strategies to keep qualified drivers in the seats and trucks rolling. Not sure where to start? Here are a few tips to increase your competitive edge in the battle for safe and qualified truck drivers:

• Create a company culture and employment brand that drivers want to work for.
• Employ a wide range of recruiting strategies such as advertising, pursuing passive candidates, offering referral bonuses, and working with a staffing agency that is specialized in the industry.
• Build rapport with driving school instructors. Be the employer that they want their students to work for.
• Offer tuition reimbursement programs.
• Speak with your current drivers to learn more about what they enjoy about working for your company and to identify areas of improvement. Implement changes to help retain your talent.

The increased demand for drivers also impacts other logistics positions as well. An increased demand for dispatchers, warehouse personnel, and logistics professionals will continue to rise. Preparation and retention are the key to remaining staffed and keeping the wheels in motion.

Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of professional drivers? Contact us today! Learn more about our Dedicated Driver Services here! Are you a safe and professional driver who is seeking a rewarding career? Visit us here to locate a driving career in your area!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.