Empire Group Wins Big at Keystone Truckin' Nationals

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!

The trucking industry is evolving. As sustainability demands grow, fuel costs rise, and regulations tighten, companies seek cleaner, smarter ways to move forward. Alternative-fuel trucks are a major change reshaping transportation. What Exactly Are Alternative-Fuel Trucks? Alternative-fuel trucks use energy sources other than diesel or gasoline. They reduce emissions, boost efficiency, and support cleaner operations in construction, demolition, and contracting. Main options are: Electric Trucks – Powered by advanced batteries with zero tailpipe emissions. Compressed or Liquefied Natural Gas (CNG/LNG) – Lower-emission fuels that are more affordable and widely available. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trucks – Produce electricity on demand with only water vapor as a byproduct. Hybrid Trucks – Combine traditional fuel with electric power for improved performance and efficiency. Why the Industry Is Shifting The move toward alternative-fuel trucks isn’t just about keeping up with technology—it’s about solving long-term challenges: Environmental responsibility : Governments worldwide are enforcing stricter emission standards. Alternative-fuel trucks help fleets reduce their carbon footprint and meet sustainability goals. Cost savings : While the upfront investment may be higher, alternative-fuel trucks often lead to lower operating costs thanks to reduced fuel and maintenance expenses. Customer expectations : Shippers and consumers alike are asking for greener supply chains. Companies that adapt early gain a competitive edge. Energy independence : Alternative fuels can reduce reliance on foreign oil and help stabilize long-term fuel costs. Challenges and Opportunities Ahead Like any new technology, alternative-fuel trucks come with challenges. Infrastructure—such as charging stations for electric trucks or hydrogen fueling stations—needs further development. Initial purchase costs can also be higher. However, with government incentives, advancing technology, and growing demand for sustainable solutions, the opportunities far outweigh the challenges. The trucking industry is at a turning point. Alternate-fuel trucks are no longer just a concept—they are a growing reality that offers cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable transportation solutions. Only time will tell just how well these trucks drive efficiency, sustainability, and success.

The trucking industry is the backbone of the global supply chain, moving over 70% of freight in countries like the U.S. But with big business comes big risk — and unfortunately, fraud in the trucking industry is on the rise. From cargo theft to billing scams, fraudulent practices cost trucking companies millions each year. Whether you’re an owner-operator, a logistics manager, or part of a freight brokerage, understanding the different types of fraud can help you stay ahead of the game — and safeguard your bottom line. Let’s dive into the top four types of trucking fraud, how they happen, and what you can do to stop them. 1. Cargo Theft Cargo theft involves stealing goods directly from a truck, warehouse, or during the transit process. Thieves may target high value loads like electronics, pharmaceuticals, or retail goods. How it happens: Hijacking or unauthorized access to trailers Fake pickup drivers using forged documents Theft at unsecured parking lots How to prevent it: Use GPS tracking and geofencing Verify driver IDs and credentials Park only in secure, monitored areas 2. Double Brokering Fraud Double brokering occurs when a broker assigns a load to a carrier, who then re-brokers the load to another carrier — often without permission. In fraudulent cases, the second carrier may never get paid or the load goes missing. Why it’s a problem: Loads go unaccounted for Insurance claims get complicated Damages trust between shippers, brokers, and carriers Red flags to watch for: Low rates that seem too good to be true Inconsistent communication or last-minute changes New or unverified MC numbers 3. Fuel Card and Expense Fraud Drivers or even internal employees may manipulate fuel card systems or expense reports to siphon money. Examples include: Using company fuel cards for personal vehicles Padding maintenance or lodging receipts Ghost fuel-ups (claiming fuel was purchased when it wasn’t) Prevention tips: Use GPS-integrated fuel cards Set daily limits and transaction alerts Audit receipts and match them with logs 4. Billing and Invoicing Scams Scammers submit fake invoices, duplicate billing, or even altered rate confirmations to extract money from unsuspecting brokers or shippers. Types of billing fraud: Phantom loads (billing for loads that don’t exist) Upcharging after delivery Duplicate invoices for the same shipment How to prevent it: Implement invoice tracking software Cross-check BOLs (Bills of Lading) and delivery records Only work with vetted carriers and brokers Stay Alert, Stay Protected The trucking industry is a vital part of the economy — but its complexity makes it a ripe target for fraud. The cost of complacency can be high, both financially and reputationally. By staying educated and implementing smart safety protocols, your business can stay one step ahead of fraudsters.

With fall weather soon to arrive, DVC is reflecting on the past few months of successful demolition and heavy equipment transportation projects and events. From a well-earned retirement to transporting heavy machinery to an auction house, we’ve been busy providing the strategic solutions to our clients and celebrating our team. Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlights from over the summer.

Over the past few years, the trucking industry has seen a seismic shift in the legal landscape — and the pressure is mounting. While nuclear verdicts (jury awards exceeding $10 million) were once considered rare. Today we’re witnessing something even more alarming: thermonuclear verdicts. These are jury awards that exceed $100 million, and they’re becoming increasingly common in trucking-related lawsuits. As verdict amounts skyrocket, so does the urgency for carriers to understand the risk, prepare accordingly, and take proactive steps to reduce liability. What Are Thermonuclear Verdicts? A thermonuclear verdict refers to an extreme legal judgment — typically $100 million or more — awarded in a civil trial, most commonly following a catastrophic truck accident. These verdicts go beyond compensation; they serve as punitive actions meant to “send a message” to the industry. According to Marathon Strategies, thermonuclear verdicts increased by 81% from 2023 to 2024, with two of them coming from the trucking sector. This marks a historic spike in high-dollar litigation. As jurors become more emotionally driven and attorneys adopt aggressive courtroom strategies, the risk for trucking companies grows.  What’s Fueling These Massive Lawsuits? There are several contributing factors to the rise of thermonuclear verdicts, including: 1. Reptile Theory Litigation Tactics Plaintiff attorneys are increasingly using the Reptile Theory, a psychological strategy that taps into jurors’ primal instinct to protect their community. The attorney positions the trucking company as a public threat — portraying the accident not as a mistake, but as the result of systemic negligence. This strategy is highly effective at generating outrage and, consequently, massive jury awards. 2. Public Sentiment and Emotional Appeals High-profile crashes, negative media coverage, and public concern over road safety have made juries more sympathetic toward victims and more punitive toward trucking companies — especially when there’s evidence of negligence or poor safety practices. 3. Lack of Documentation or Safety Protocols When a carrier cannot produce adequate records — such as driver training logs, maintenance reports, or hours-of-service documentation — it signals a lack of accountability. This opens the door for excessive jury awards. Common Triggers for Thermonuclear Verdicts Certain risk factors significantly increase the likelihood of a thermonuclear verdict: Drug or alcohol use by the driver Violations of federal Hours-of-Service regulations Poor or inconsistent driver training A history of previous violations or crashes Health issues that impair driving Driver fatigue or distracted driving (cellphone use) Accidents in construction or school zones Even one of these issues can escalate a claim. Combined, they create a legal powder keg. Some Ways Trucking Companies Can Protect Themselves No one can predict every accident, but trucking companies can take steps to minimize legal exposure and show that safety is a top priority: ✅ I nvest in Safety Technology Equip trucks with forward-facing cameras, lane departure warnings, and driver monitoring systems. These tools not only prevent accidents — they provide crucial evidence if an incident occurs. ✅ Enhance Hiring and Training Standards Screen drivers thoroughly, perform regular background checks, and invest in ongoing training. Document every step of the process. ✅ Implement a Post-Crash Protocol Have a clear, documented plan in place for responding to accidents. This includes communication procedures, medical response, legal notification, and data collection. ✅ Keep Rigorous Records Track maintenance logs, driver hours, inspections, suspensions or violations, and training documentation. If it isn’t written down, it doesn’t exist in court. Thermonuclear Verdicts Are a Wake-Up Call The trucking industry is under legal fire — and thermonuclear verdicts are the strongest signal yet that juries are losing patience with carriers who don’t prioritize safety. At the same time, this is also an opportunity: companies that are transparent, compliant, and committed to safety can rise above the risk. At DVC, we strive to promote safety on the road with our safety practices, highly trained drivers and well-maintained fleet. Contact us today to learn more!

America’s trucking industry is the backbone of the economy, moving over 70% of the nation's freight and generating hundreds of billions in revenue each year. Yet behind the wheel of this powerhouse are nearly 4 million truck drivers, many of whom face a silent but growing crisis—mental health struggles that too often go unnoticed and untreated. From long hours to social isolation, the life of a truck driver is uniquely stressful. In the past ten years, there has been a rising concern on the mental health of American truck drivers, not just for their well-being, but for the safety and sustainability of the entire industry.

When severe weather strikes, one of the most underestimated hazards on the road is flood water, and for truck drivers, the danger can be even greater. Whether you're behind the wheel of a tri-axle dump truck, a flatbed, or a semi, driving through flood-affected areas poses serious safety risks that can lead to costly damage, delays, or worse—life-threatening situations. "Turn Around, Don't Drown" Isn’t Just a Slogan—It’s a Lifesaving Rule According to the National Weather Service, flooding is the second-deadliest weather hazard in the U.S. Many drivers assume that large trucks are heavy and powerful enough to push through rising water. But the reality is that just six inches of fast-moving water can knock over an adult. Twelve inches of rushing water can carry away cars. And two feet of water can carry away SUVs and trucks, including heavy-duty trucks. Flood waters often hide hazards like debris, sink holes, washed-out roadways, or downed power lines—none of which are visible from behind the wheel. Even if the water looks shallow, it may be deeper than it appears or moving faster than expected. Risks Specific to Truck Drivers Vehicle Damage: Flood waters can severely damage your engine, transmission, brakes, and electrical systems. Loss of Cargo or Load Shift: Water entering your trailer bed or dump body can compromise your load, causing unexpected shifting or damage. Hydroplaning or Jackknifing: Larger trucks are especially vulnerable to losing control when tires can't grip the road. Driver Safety: Above all else, your safety is at stake. No load is worth risking your life. What to Do If You Encounter Flooded Roads If you encounter a flooded road, do not attempt to drive through it. If you're unsure about the depth (a half-inch deep or more), turn around. The water is usually shallower in the center of the road, so try to drive in the middle of it. If you are not familiar with the area, use your GPS or DOT updates to reroute around the flooded area. You should also report the dangerous conditions to your dispatch and/or emergency services so others can avoid the same risk. And no matter the weather, you should always keep emergency supplies in your cab, including a flashlight, blanket, gloves, first aid kit, water, a snack, and a battery-powered radio. Prepared Drivers Are Safe Drivers At DVC and across our affiliates at Empire Group , we prioritize driver training, safety, and preparedness—especially during storm season. We encourage our drivers and partners to always respect the power of nature and stay alert when the weather turns. And remember, when in doubt, don’t drive through it.