Have You Prepped Your Tractor-Trailer for Winter?

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.

When Health Meets the Highway Truck driving is more than just a job—it’s a lifestyle. But long hours behind the wheel, limited access to healthy food, and irregular sleep can take a toll on your health. That’s why medical emergencies on the road are a growing concern for truck drivers and fleet managers alike.  Do you know the most common truck driver medical emergencies? Let’s take a look at them along with the warning signs and what every driver can do to stay prepared—no matter how far the road stretches. 1. The Most Common Truck Driver Medical Emergencies Medical emergencies can strike at any time—especially for drivers spending 8 to 14 hours a day on the road. The top health risks include: a. Heart Attacks Prolonged sitting, stress, poor diet, and high blood pressure make drivers more susceptible to cardiac events. b. Strokes Symptoms like sudden weakness, confusion, or slurred speech are signs of a possible stroke—requiring immediate medical attention. c. Diabetic Episodes Drivers with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes may experience blood sugar crashes (hypoglycemia) or spikes (hyperglycemia), which can impair focus or lead to unconsciousness. A diabetic driver may also experience ketoacidosis. These symptoms include excessive thirst, confusion and high blood sugar levels. d. Dehydration and Heat Stroke Long hours in hot weather without proper hydration can lead to dizziness, confusion, or even collapse. e. Deep Vein Thrombosis Sitting and driving for long periods of time can cause this life-threatening disease. Swelling of arms or legs, pain in legs, and color changes in affected limb(s) are some of the symptoms. 2. Recognize the Warning Signs Early Quick recognition can save lives. Drivers should watch for these red flags: Chest pain or tightness Difficulty breathing Sudden dizziness or fainting Blurred vision or slurred speech Excessive sweating or chills Extreme fatigue or confusion If any of these symptoms occur, do not continue driving. Pull over safely and call for emergency assistance immediately. 3. Preventing Medical Emergencies on the Road a. Regular Health Check-Ups Schedule DOT physicals and personal check-ups to monitor chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol. b. Prioritize Healthy Habits Eat nutritious meals (pack healthy snacks and extra water) Stay active during breaks Get consistent, quality sleep Stay hydrated c. Manage Stress Use relaxation techniques like deep breathing, audiobooks, or short walks during breaks. d. Keep Medications Accessible Store daily meds and emergency prescriptions within reach, including epinephrine, insulin and albuterol. It’s important to keep a first aid kit, a glucose meter, a phone charger, and a blood pressure monitor in the truck. And always have an updated list of medications and dosages stored in a safe place in the vehicle. 4. What to Do During a Medical Emergency Step-by-Step Guide: Recognize the symptoms – Trust your body. Don’t ignore warning signs. Pull over safely – Stop in a safe, visible location with hazard lights on. Call 911 immediately – Time is critical, especially with heart attacks or strokes. Notify dispatch – Let your manager know where you are and what’s happening. Wait for help – Do not attempt to drive further or “wait it out.” Prioritizing your health on the road saves lives, reduces downtime, and keeps the wheels of logistics turning. At DVC, we strive to keep our drivers safe with health and safety training and safety equipment. Stay healthy. Stay alert. Stay on the road.