A Look at the Rise of Thermonuclear Verdicts in Trucking

As freight demand increases and driver shortages persist, trucking companies are under constant pressure to recruit qualified CDL drivers quickly. But there’s a growing problem that fleet owners cannot afford to ignore: “sham” CDL schools. These fraudulent CDL training schools for truck drivers (and school bus drivers) are producing underprepared drivers who hold a license on paper — but lack the skills, knowledge, and safety practices required on the road. For trucking companies, this isn’t just an inconvenience in hiring. It’s a compliance, safety, and financial risk. What Is a Sham CDL School? A sham CDL school is a training provider that fails to meet federal and state standards for commercial driver education. These schools: Employ unqualified instructors Falsify training documentation Improperly train drivers on HAZMAT transportation. Use the wrong equipment to train drivers. Since the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule went into effect under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), all new CDL applicants must complete training from a provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Despite this requirement, some programs attempt to cut corners. Recently, the U.S. Department of Transportation cracked down on these sham CDL schools. The FMCSA conducted on-site investigations at over 1,400 CDL schools, resulting in 550 schools being shut down. Of these, 448 received formal notices of removal, and 109 removed themselves from the registry of schools upon learning of the investigations. This is just another issue plaguing the trucking industry, including high turnover rates and chameleon carriers. Why Sham CDL Schools Are a Direct Threat to Trucking Companies 1. Increased Accident Risk Drivers with inadequate training are more likely to mishandle: Pre-trip inspections Backing and docking procedures Defensive driving situations Adverse weather conditions Hours-of-service compliance One preventable accident can cost a fleet hundreds of thousands of dollars in claims, legal fees, equipment damage, and downtime. 2. Higher Insurance Premiums Insurance carriers analyze driver quality, safety history, and training background. A pattern of hiring undertrained drivers can lead to: Premium increases Coverage limitations Stricter underwriting requirements 3. FMCSA Compliance Exposure If a driver’s ELDT documentation is inaccurate or improperly recorded, your company could face compliance reviews conducted by the FMCSA. 4. Reputation Damage In today’s digital world, safety incidents quickly impact public perception. How Trucking Companies Can Protect Themselves 1. Strengthen Pre-Hire Screening Go beyond verifying a CDL. Ask candidates about: Specific maneuvers they trained on Types of equipment used Real road driving conditions experienced 2. Conduct Internal Skills Evaluations Implement standardized road tests and backing assessments before releasing new drivers solo. 3. Partner with Reputable CDL Schools Develop relationships with established FMCSA-registered training providers. 4. Invest in Finishing Programs Create structured orientation and mentoring programs to reinforce: Safety culture Compliance expectations Defensive driving habits Company SOPs A strong finishing program can identify skill gaps before they turn into incidents. 5. Audit Your Hiring Data Track accidents, violations, and turnover by training source. Patterns will quickly reveal which schools produce quality drivers — and which do not. Why Quality Training Matters More Than Ever With thermonuclear verdicts on the rise and regulatory oversight increasing, fleets must prioritize driver quality over speed-to-hire. A well-trained driver: Reduces liability exposure Protects your CSA scores Improves fuel efficiency Enhances customer confidence Strengthens company culture In contrast, a driver who received inadequate training can put your entire operation at risk. Final Thoughts Sham CDL schools are a growing concern in the United States, and trucking companies must remain vigilant. While the driver shortage creates pressure to move quickly, compromising on training quality can cost far more than an unfilled seat. By tightening your screening process, verifying ELDT compliance, building trusted school partnerships, and investing in structured onboarding, your company can reduce risk while building a stronger, safer fleet. At DVC, we have experienced CDL drivers who have extensive training and a strong commitment to safety, compliance, and professionalism.

Road rage isn’t just a passenger car problem. In today’s fast-paced logistics environment, road rage in the trucking industry has become a growing concern—impacting safety, brand reputation, driver retention, and operating costs. For fleet managers and trucking companies, understanding why road rage happens and how to prevent it isn’t just good practice—it’s good business. What Is Road Rage in Trucking? Road rage refers to aggressive or violent behavior triggered by stress, frustration, or anger while driving. In the trucking industry, this can include: Tailgating or brake checking Excessive horn use or verbal threats Unsafe lane changes or speeding Confrontations at rest stops or loading docks Given that commercial vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, even minor aggressive actions can have serious and sometimes fatal consequences. Why Road Rage Is So Common Among Truck Drivers Truck driving is one of the most demanding professions on the road. Several industry-specific factors increase the risk of road rage: 1. Tight Deadlines and Schedule Pressure Delivery windows, Hours of Service regulations, and shipper delays create intense pressure. When time is money, frustration builds fast. 2. Traffic and Road Conditions Congested highways, construction zones, and unpredictable drivers can test even the calmest professional driver. 3. Long Hours and Fatigue Driver fatigue reduces patience and emotional control, making aggressive reactions more likely. 4. Lack of Respect from Other Motorists Many truck drivers report feeling ignored, cut off, or disrespected by passenger vehicles—fueling anger and resentment. The Real Cost of Road Rage for Trucking Companies Road rage doesn’t just affect drivers—it affects your entire operation. Safety Risks Aggressive driving increases the likelihood of collisions, injuries, and fatalities. Higher Insurance Premiums Accidents tied to aggressive behavior can drive up insurance costs and hurt safety scores. Brand Reputation Damage With dash cams, smartphones, and social media everywhere, one viral incident can seriously harm your company’s image. Driver Turnover A stressful, hostile driving environment contributes to burnout and high turnover—already a major industry challenge. How the Trucking Industry Can Reduce Road Rage The good news? Road rage is preventable. Proactive companies are already taking steps to reduce aggressive driving behaviors. Invest in Driver Training Ongoing training in defensive driving, emotional regulation, and conflict avoidance empowers drivers to stay calm under pressure. Promote a Safety-First Culture When companies prioritize safety over unrealistic delivery times, drivers feel supported—and less stressed. Use Technology Wisely Telematics, dash cameras, and AI-powered driver monitoring tools can identify risky behaviors early and provide coaching opportunities. Encourage Mental Health and Wellness Access to rest, healthy schedules, and mental health resources helps drivers manage stress more effectively. Lead with Communication Clear expectations, realistic routes, and open communication between dispatchers and drivers reduce frustration before it turns into anger. Tips for Truck Drivers to Avoid Road Rage For drivers on the road every day, small mindset shifts make a big difference: Don’t take other drivers’ mistakes personally. Leave extra space and plan for delays. Take breaks when emotions run high. Focus on arriving safely. Professional driving isn’t about reacting; it’s about responding calmly and safely. The Bottom Line Road rage in the trucking industry is more than a personal issue—it’s a business, safety, and brand issue. Companies that address it head-on through training, technology, and culture don’t just reduce accidents; they build stronger fleets and more resilient drivers. At Delaware Valley Contractors , we have a strong commitment to safety, which includes proper training, a well-maintained fleet and constant communication. We strive to reduce risk, improve driver well-being and preserve trust with our customers and our community. Let's all be safe on the road!

Source: Purdue University/Kelsey Lefever

Source: Cap City News/Klark Byrd

It’s hard to believe it’s the end of 2025! We are grateful for another great year. There have been many projects and events DVC was involved in, and we are proud of the services we have provided to our customers. Below are some project and event highlights from this year.

The holiday season is officially here—and so is one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Thanksgiving has long been known for packed highways, crowded interstates, and bumper-to-bumper traffic, and this year is shaping up to be even busier. According to AAA, more than 70 million people are expected to travel by car for Thanksgiving, that’s a 1.3 million increase from last year. With 90% of holiday travelers driving, congestion—and the risks that come with it—will be front and center on highways and local roads across the country. More vehicles on the road means a heightened need for focus, patience, and safe driving habits. Whether you’re heading across town or several states away, staying alert can help ensure a smooth and stress-free holiday. Why Thanksgiving Leads the Year in Traffic Beyond family gatherings and tradition, Thanksgiving’s travel surge happens because it’s one of the few holidays that inspires long-distance trips. Many Americans take advantage of extended weekends, remote work flexibility, and the opportunity to reconnect with loved ones. Unfortunately, the combination of heavier traffic, unpredictable weather, and distracted or rushed drivers increases the likelihood of accidents during this time. What Drivers Should Expect This Year With millions of additional vehicles expected on the road: Major highways may see long delays, especially Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Local roads around shopping centers, grocery stores, and community events will be busier than normal. Travel times may double—or even triple—during peak hours. More trucks on the road carrying goods and materials to retail and commercial businesses. Being prepared, staying patient, and practicing safe driving habits will go a long way toward keeping you and your passengers protected. Tips to Stay Safe Behind the Wheel This Holiday Season To help you navigate the holiday rush with confidence, keep these tips in mind: 1. Plan Ahead Check traffic conditions, weather forecasts, and construction zones before starting your trip. Early planning helps reduce stress and minimizes unexpected delays. 2. Avoid Distracted Driving Phones, navigation adjustments, and holiday playlists can wait. Stay focused and keep your eyes on the road at all times. Also, in Pennsylvania, it is against the law to hold a hand-held device (e.g., a cell phone) while driving. 3. Slow Down and Keep a Safe Distance With congestion on the rise, braking distances have become even more important. Allow extra space between your vehicle and the one ahead. 4. Prepare Your Vehicle Ensure your tires, lights, wipers, and fluids are ready for cold-weather travel. A quick inspection can prevent bigger issues down the road. 5. Stay Patient Holiday traffic is inevitable—but arriving safely is what matters most. Give yourself extra time and stay calm behind the wheel. Let's Stay Safe on the Road As millions take to the roads this Thanksgiving, safety should be a top priority. By staying alert, preparing ahead, and practicing defensive driving, you can help keep yourself—and everyone around you—safe. Here’s to a smooth, safe, and enjoyable holiday travel season. Happy Thanksgiving from Delaware Valley Contractors!

Winter can be one of the toughest seasons for tractor-trailer operators. Snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and unpredictable storms don’t just slow down operations—they can put drivers, equipment, and project schedules at risk. For contractors who rely on tractor-trailers to move materials, transport equipment, and support active jobsites, winter readiness is essential. At Delaware Valley Contractors, we know that the core of a successful project is dependable equipment. Preparing your tractor-trailer for the winter season keeps your fleet moving, your crews safe, and your deadlines on track. Below is a quick, step-by-step guide to getting your tractor-trailer winter ready. 1. Begin with a Comprehensive Winter Inspection Give your tractor-trailer a full, thorough inspection before winter hits. Inspection priorities: Brakes: Cold temperatures make braking systems more vulnerable—check lines, drums, and pads. Battery: Batteries lose power in the cold. Test voltage and connections, and replace if necessary. Be sure to test the alternator as well. Belts & hoses: Winter can turn minor cracks or soft spots into failures. Air system: Drain moisture from air tanks and ensure dryers are functioning properly. Exhaust system: Look for leaks or corrosion that could worsen in freezing conditions. Windshield wipers: Switch to winter wiper blades and use washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures. A thorough inspection now prevents costly breakdowns and job delays later. 2. Switch to Winter-Ready Fluids Winter demands the right fluids for reliable tractor-trailer performance. Key fluid upgrades: Winter-grade engine oil to maintain proper viscosity in cold temperatures. Coolant check —ensure the mix is freeze-protective and system pressure is correct. Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) —store and handle carefully; it begins to freeze at 12°F. Anti-gel diesel additives to prevent fuel gelling in extreme cold. Fresh fuel filters —clogged filters worsen in winter and can stop a truck fast. Proper fluid preparation is one of the most effective ways to avoid winter downtime. It’s also important to check the water separator. As temperatures fall, be sure to check it and drain any water collected in it. 3. Maximize Traction and Tire Performance Ice and snow reduce stopping power and maneuverability—two critical factors for tractor-trailer safety. Tire prep essentials: Check tread depth and replace worn tires before winter. Monitor tire pressure frequently; cold temps reduce PSI. Don’t drive with tires below 20% of the recommended pressure. Inspect sidewalls for cracking or dry rot. Verify chain condition and store chains where drivers can access them fast. Check your spare —a bad spare won’t help in a storm. Good traction can be the difference between safe travel and a dangerous winter incident. 4. Ensure Lighting and Electrical Components Are Winter-Ready Winter brings shorter days, long nights, fog, and blowing snow—all of which reduce visibility. Make sure every lighting component is functional: Headlights Marker lights Brake lights Turn signals Reverse lights Trailer lights Reflectors Clean lenses and replace dim bulbs to maximize visibility on dark or snowy job routes. 5. Stock a Winter Emergency Kit Even the best-maintained tractor-trailer can encounter unexpected weather issues. Equip every truck with a winter emergency kit. Must-have items: Ice scraper and heavy-duty snow brush Road flares or reflective triangles Anti-gel fuel additives Extra fuel and oil filters Jumper cables Tire chains First-aid kit Flashlight and batteries Warm gloves and blankets Non-perishable snacks and water Extra washer fluid WD-40 These essentials can turn a stressful situation into a safe, manageable delay. 6. Prepare the Cab for Driver Safety and Comfort A comfortable, well-equipped cab keeps drivers alert—especially on long winter routes. Cab readiness checklist: Test the heater and defroster. Clean mirrors and ensure mirror heaters work (if equipped). Wipe moisture from floors and seals. Stock extra winter gear: gloves, hats, high-vis vests, and hand warmers. Keep phone chargers and GPS units accessible. Driver comfort plays a major role in winter safety and performance. Winters Are Tough—Your Tractor Trailer Should Be Tougher For Delaware Valley Contractors, maintaining safe, reliable tractor-trailers is essential for keeping projects on schedule, supporting field crews, and delivering quality results for clients year-round. Winter preparation is more than routine maintenance—it’s an investment in safety, efficiency, and operational success. By following a proactive winter prep strategy—inspecting equipment, using winter-ready fluids, improving traction, and reinforcing safety systems—you’ll keep your fleet running strong through the harshest months of the year.

Recognizing the Signs of Drowsy Driving

On behalf of the Empire Group , we would like to offer our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in our Annual Golf Classic on October 4 th at the beautiful Galen Hall Golf Club in Wernersville, PA. It’s hard to believe this marked the 30th year of the tournament! Although this was Empire Group's first time hosting the event at this historic venue, they have deep roots at Galen Hall — affiliate, Empire Services , demolished the original Galen Hall Hotel back in 1963 following a devastating fire. Since then, the golf club has remained a local landmark, known for its scenic views and welcoming atmosphere. Despite the cool early morning, 99 golfers were warmed up and ready for the 8 AM shot gun start leading to some fun but competitive golfing. After the final putt dropped, everyone gathered for the award ceremonies, followed by a hearty lunch. Shout out to the winners of all categories and the raffle!