Is the Top of Your Trailer a Snow Hazard?

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.

At DVC, we take pride in more than just moving materials—we move history, serve communities, and build futures. Here's a glimpse into what we've been up to recently alongside our trusted affiliate, Empire Services . Historic Building Demolition on Penn Street Downtown Reading has seen a lot of change over the years—and DVC is honored to be part of the transformation. Recently, we partnered with Empire Services to support the demolition of two buildings on Penn Street that were deemed imminent threats to public safety. One of these structures held a special piece of local history. It featured a façade from the original Reading News Building, a wonderful example of Reading’s architectural heritage dating back to 1912. Our experienced drivers navigated the tight turns of a narrow side street, expertly backing our barrel trailer into position. From there, we hauled mixed debris—concrete, glass, and brick—to a local disposal facility. We also provided a flatbed to haul equipment to and from our yard.

The trucking industry is on the verge of a technological revolution, and at the forefront of this transformation are driverless or autonomous trucks. As advancements in autonomous vehicle technology accelerate, the concept of self-driving trucks is quickly shifting from futuristic novelty to practical reality. With rising operational costs, driver shortages, and increasing demand for faster deliveries, many logistics companies are exploring autonomous trucking as a scalable solution. But what does this mean for freight transportation? What Are Driverless Trucks? Driverless trucks, also known as autonomous trucks, are commercial vehicles equipped with advanced systems that allow them to operate without human input. These systems combine technologies like: Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) Radar sensors Cameras Artificial intelligence (AI) Machine learning algorithms Real-time GPS and mapping systems There are different levels of autonomous driving. According to SAE international’s standard J3016, there are five levels: Level 0 = Truck driver has complete control of the truck, but there are driver-assisted technologies (e.g., automatic emergency braking and cruise control) available. Level 1 = The driving system can control speed and direction but not both simultaneously. The driver-assisted features are more advanced (e.g., lane-keeping assistance). Level 2 = Control of speed and direction can be done simultaneously. These trucks still require driver input since the system is not ready yet for real-world driving conditions. Level 3 = The driving system is more autonomous, and it can request the driver to take over to drive. Level 4 = The driving system is fully autonomous, and some Level 4 trucks may not have pedals or steering wheels. Many driverless trucks on the road today operate at Level 4 autonomy, meaning they can handle all driving tasks under certain conditions without human intervention, but may still have a driver onboard as an observer (a safety backup). Autonomous Trucks in the Trucking Industry Here’s why driverless trucks are gaining traction in logistics and freight: 1. Alleviating the Driver Shortage According to the American Trucking Association, the U.S. still faces a shortage of over 80,000 truck drivers in recent years, and could double by 2030. Autonomous trucks provide a scalable way to move freight without relying solely on a shrinking labor pool. 2. Boosting Efficiency and Uptime Unlike human drivers, autonomous trucks don’t need to rest, take breaks, or stop overnight allowing for nearly 24/7 operation. This translates to faster delivery times and reduced downtime. 3. Lowering Operational Costs While the upfront investment is significant, driverless trucks offer long-term savings by reducing labor costs, fuel usage through optimized driving, and accident-related expenses. 4. Improved Safety AI-powered trucks are programmed to follow traffic laws precisely, maintain safe distances, and avoid distracted or fatigued driving. 5. Sustainability Autonomous trucks can be integrated with electric drivetrains and optimized routing to reduce carbon emissions, helping companies meet sustainability targets. Challenges and Considerations While promising, driverless trucking isn't without its hurdles: Regulatory uncertainty : Federal and state laws are still evolving around autonomous vehicles. There is no federal standard yet, only at the state level. Twenty-four states have permitted some degree of autonomous commercial trucks. Infrastructure readiness : Roads, signals, and logistics hubs may require upgrades. Also, a person could tamper with road signs or painted lines on roads to mislead the driving system. Cybersecurity concerns : More connectivity means higher vulnerability to digital threats. Autonomous tractor-trailers can be activated wirelessly, which has been proven by engineers at the National Motor Freight Traffic Association . Along with cybersecurity concerns, there are other security issues, such as a person tampering with a vehicle’s CAN (Controlled Area Network) bus or hardware. Public perception : Gaining trust in autonomous technology is still a work in progress. However, with continued investment and testing, these challenges are being actively addressed by the industry.  Driverless trucks are not a distant dream—they are a real and growing presence in the transportation ecosystem. While full adoption may take time, the trucking industry is clearly steering toward an autonomous future.

It was a busy and windy day for The Junior League of Reading’s 18th Annual Touch-a-Truck event on Sunday, April 27th. There was so much to see with over 50 businesses, organizations, and non-profits at the event, which was held at the FirstEnergy Stadium in Reading, PA. There were over 1,000 attendees and a variety of vehicles. This year, we brought a DVC tri-axle dump truck for eager children to explore. The DVC team was excited to meet the families and to provide information about the trucks and also DVC and the Empire Group. DVC’s table was set up at the start of the vehicles area. We were kept on our toes helping kids of all ages into our truck. By walking around the event, it was clear that there were more exhibitors than previous years. The kids loved learning about the different vehicles and collecting giveaways. The DVC team handed out foam baseball mitts and baseball bats (while trying to keep them from blowing away!) to the kids as they waited in line to see the truck. The vendors provided fun samples and educated families on their services, along with those whom were selling their goods. From a horse trailer to a propane truck, there was no shortage of excitement for children to experience. There was also a train ride for the little ones and Phunland with mini golf putting. Behind the scenes, The Junior League of Reading orchestrated the event flawlessly, which benefits Women’s Leadership and Youth Empowerment initiatives. DVC extends heartfelt gratitude to the Junior League for their unwavering commitment and the opportunity to be part of such a remarkable event. With anticipation building for next year's gathering, the team eagerly looks forward to creating more lasting memories and fostering connections within the vibrant Reading community.

Why Are So Many Trucks Parked on the Shoulder?

With warm spring weather upon us, DVC is reflecting on the past few months of successful demolition and heavy equipment transportation projects. From municipal building demolitions to moving heavy machinery across state lines, we’ve been busy providing the strategic solutions our clients need. Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlights from our recent projects.