Trucking news and briefs for Friday, Oct. 25, 2019:
DOT’s Inspector General to audit FMCSA’s oversight of state licensing agencies
The U.S. DOT’s Office of Inspector General this week announced it will be reviewing FMCSA’s oversight of state licensing agencies and their procedures for revoking CDLs from truck drivers.
The audit stems from a fatal crash this summer, in which it was revealed that the state of Massachusetts had not processed out-of-state notifications of convictions for CDL holders in over five years. After the discovery, the state suspended thousands of CDLs, says the DOT OIG. Thus, the internal watchdog says it will audit the agency’s oversight of state licensing agencies and how they manage CDL disqualifications.
Landstar owner-op’s heroism prompts company recognition
Owner-operator Aaron “Buford” Williams, also a trained firefighter and emergency medical service provider, came upon a multi-vehicle accident this past summer on I-45 in Texas. According to emergency responders later on the scene, Williams’ quick response to accident victims that day saved multiple lives. His efforts earned him the Platinum Star of Quality Award, reserved for examples of highway heroes in exceptional circumstances at the company Williams is leased to, Landstar.
Williams stays prepared for anything he encounters on the road, he says, and puts his emergency training into action when opportunity arises. In this case,
“It all happened right in front of me as I was driving down the interstate. I watched a large semi-truck cross over the median and drive right into oncoming traffic,” says Williams. “There were five vehicles involved, everyone in the accident was injured. I am just thankful I was there to help and that I have the skills to help in emergency situations like this.”
Williams keeps his skills as a first responder active by volunteering at the local fire department in his hometown, he says.
New Detroit-area Volvo dealer, parts/service support
November 4, M&K Truck Centers in Romulus, Mich., is set to open its new location at 29275 Citrin Drive, following a ribbon-cutting there October 24. M&K’s Romulus location features new Volvo trucks, used trucks, truck rental & leasing, financing, parts and parts delivery and service. The new 67,000-square-foot facility sits on 25 acres with 31 service bays and a large parts inventory and warehouse. In addition to the Romulus location, M&K has three other dealerships in Eastern Michigan –Sterling Heights (Volvo and Mack), Flint (Volvo and Mack) and Saginaw (Volvo).
Parts delivery, mobile service and extended hours are available for customer convenience. Parts and Service are open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m.-midnight and from 6 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Saturdays.
