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No truck driver wants to think about getting into an accident. An accident can lead to harm to yourself and others, damage to your truck and other property, legal and insurance issues , and it can leave you off the road for an extended period of time. Even though commercial trucks are only involved in 2.4% of all accidents, and only 16% of these accidents are the truck driver’s fault, it’s still important for truckers to know the best ways to avoid a truck accident. Because of this, we are giving you seven common causes of truck accidents on the road, and some tips to help you increase your awareness. Speeding Speeding is the second-highest cause of accidents on the road behind distracted driving. Compared to cars, semi-trucks can exert more force on whatever they make an impact with because of their sheer size and weight. This means it’s even more important that you are aware of your speed and your distance between other vehicles. No matter how important you think your time is for your business, your safety is even more important. By keeping your speed at an appropriate limit, you will not only increase safety on the road by allowing more stopping time, but you will also help reduce your costs in fuel . Weather The weather is unpredictable and can change in an instant. Being prepared to react to a change in weather will benefit your safety and the safety of others on the road. Be cautious when you notice changes in the temperature and clouds, as it could mean the weather may begin to act up. Keep your distance from the vehicle in front of you, and if the weather is bad enough, be extra aware of ice, snow, water, or debris that could now be on the road. Use your blinker a little longer than you normally would before you turn or cross lanes to give others more time to react and make sure they see you. When you see other trucks pulled over, chances are they are doing it for a reason, and the safest thing to do might be to pull yourself over as well. No load is more important than the safety of yourself and the others around you. Driver Fatigue Accidents attributed to driver fatigue are often the most serious. Fatigue causes a driver to have very little reaction time and can create similar impairments to driving under the influence of alcohol. After about 17 hours of being awake, your responsiveness and alertness begin to deteriorate significantly. Assess your alertness, and if you are too tired to drive, rest as soon as you can find a safe place to stop, even if you have time left on the clock. Blind Spots Trucks are about four times the length of a typical car. So, as a semi-truck driver, you have to be more aware of your surroundings to make sure another vehicle isn’t in your blind spot. Although this may seem obvious, and only about ten percent of accidents are attributed to these restrictions in visibility, it’s still worth acknowledging. Other drivers may be unaware of these blind spots, which means it’s up to you to keep a safe distance and to use caution when changing lanes. You can only control what you can control, so if other drivers around you aren’t going to drive responsibly, it’s up to you to be the better driver and pay extra attention to the drivers around you. Unfamiliar Roadways If you drive a dedicated route, many of the areas around you are probably very familiar. However, if you use the spot market, many of the roads you drive on might not be so familiar. Unfamiliarity with these areas could cause distractions, from needing to check your GPS , an atlas, or road signs. Keeping your distance and staying patient in these circumstances will help prevent accidents. Other drivers on the road can sometimes be unaware of the difficult obstacles truck drivers have to deal with every day. This is especially true if a truck driver is unaware that one is coming up. Other drivers may also get frustrated in traffic that they know they have to deal with every day. By staying calm and maintaining your space from these drivers, you will help avoid an incident from occurring. Truck Maintenance It’s very important to inspect your truck regularly before and after every trip. This includes brakes, tires, fluid levels, mirrors, etc. The most common violation for out-of-service inspection is brake defects. Keeping up on preventative maintenance will not only assist you by saving you money but also may prevent an accident on the road. If you happen to get in an accident without performing a pre-trip inspection, the liability of that accident will likely fall on you, even if it wasn’t your fault. This is why it’s important to do your inspections so that you don’t cause an accident or that an accident that isn’t your fault isn’t blamed on you. Your Health You are the most important part of your truck. Staying healthy plays a huge role in your safe driving. Eating right, exercising, getting plenty of rest, and taking time to return home are a must for safe driving. Taking care of yourself will make you feel refreshed, have more energy, and be more alert and aware. You are the driver, so you make the decisions. It all starts with you and how aware you are on the road. Follow these tips to avoid truck accidents There are many other tips that you likely follow in order to prevent getting into an accident. Even if you have been driving for a while, it’s important that you are always following these tips and avoid getting lazy. All it takes is one lapse of judgment or awareness to change the course of your life and the countless lives around. By staying alert and following these tips to improve your driving, you may prevent a truck accident and possibly save a life!

Weather is arguably one of the most important factors affecting your driving routes, so it’s important to have the most up-to-date forecast at your fingertips. But finding the best weather app can be tricky since there are so many to choose from. Here are five weather apps that we think are a cloud above the rest. The Weather Channel Available On: Android, iOS, Windows Phone Cost: Free The Weather Channel's (TWC) app is free and available on Android, iOS, and Windows Phone. It provides you with an array of meteorological data such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, UV index, sunrise, sunset, and visibility on an hourly, 36-hour, or 10-day basis. The data is displayed in a sleek and easy to view format. Interactive weather maps display the latest Doppler radar data to show current and future rainfall and weather events. You can also set up Severe Weather Alerts to be notified of severe storms, tornadoes, lightning strikes near you, blizzards, and more. The app also includes social sharing features for users to upload images, tweets, videos and photos. Learn More The National Weather Service Available On: Android, iOS Cost: Free The National Weather Service gives you a quick snapshot of the current weather warnings and watches for the entire U.S. To get a more detailed forecast of a certain area, you just click the map area. You can also very quickly bring up multiple areas along your route by typing in the city names or by moving the map around to click a specific area. You can use this to focus on weather-prone areas along your route. This function is very useful for trip planning. Learn More Storm Shield Available On: Android, iOS Cost: Free While this weather app does provide many of the most basic forecasting features, Storm Shield's primary focus is on providing users with up to date local severe weather alerts for extreme weather events such as thunderstorms, hurricanes, and tornadoes. Using GPS location data from your device, Storm Shield updates you with relevant NOAA alerts via voice and push notifications (or on your Apple Watch). Storm Shield is different from most apps in that its alerts are based on the user’s precise GPS location, instead of using county-based data. A detailed radar and weather map comes with numerous data overlays keep you up to date with info on current and saved locations. Storm Shield is free, but it costs money for additional features. Learn More Weather Underground Available On: Android, iOS Cost: Free Weather Underground is unique in that it gets data from a network of more than 40,000 local professional and amateur weather stations. The crowd reporting feature allows you to verify reported forecasts as well as post your own, for a truly collaborative and interactive experience. You can also configure the app to send you severe weather alerts. Hourly, Daily, and 10-day forecasts are available. This app was voted as one of the most accurate weather apps for rural areas. If your truck route takes you into the countryside, this might be the best app for your needs. Weather Underground also includes weather cameras to view conditions in a specific area. Ads can be disabled via an in-app purchase of $1.99 per year. Learn More AccuWeather Available On: Android, iOS, Windows Cost: Free AccuWeather is a great, simple to use app that offers hourly, daily, and 15-day weather forecasts which can be integrated with your calendar. MinuteCast is a new feature that provides local minute-by-minute forecasts for the next 2 hours, based on your GPS location. The app includes severe weather alerts including thunderstorms, tornadoes, and heavy snow. AccuWeather is best for forecasting the weather in your exact location, but you can also receive alerts and forecasts from other cities you choose to save in your settings. Ads can be disabled via an in-app purchase of $3.99. Learn More Additional Truck Driver Recommendations MyRadar Highway Weather

Download our complete "Tax Resolution Guide for Owner-Operators" by clicking here! Are you worried about your past-due taxes? If so, you’re not alone! IRS non-compliance is a major problem among independent contractors in the trucking industry, as well as virtually any industry where there are independent contractors. Why is it such a common problem? For truckers, there are a few reasons: No one teaches truckers about taxes before they become business owners Bookkeeping is hard and boring, so it’s easy to fall behind on the road Because drivers fall behind on bookkeeping, they tend to fall behind on paying and filing taxes, too All of that adds up to drivers falling behind with the IRS and getting saddled with back taxes, which is a big problem. So, what should you do if you are behind with the IRS? You may hear all kinds of advice out there, but the reality is that much of what you hear is either incorrect, misguided, or not appropriate for owner-operators in the trucking industry. If you’re a trucker who needs help with tax resolution, then we recommend following ATBS’ Proven Path to getting out of debt with the IRS. Let us show you how! Become IRS Compliant Negotiate with the IRS (if needed) Manage IRS Compliance The ATBS Proven Path works because it first gets you into a position where you are in filing compliance and eligible for a resolution, and then allows you to focus on achieving a successful negotiation while learning the tools to help you stay in compliance moving forward. Now let’s discuss each of these steps in more depth. Have you fallen behind on your taxes or stressed about paying off your debt to the IRS? Check out our Tax Debt Pit Crew program ! Become IRS Compliant So what does it mean to be “Compliant” with the IRS? Pay your taxes on time each quarter (four times per year). File your tax return on time each year and pay any remaining balance owed. It seems simple, but in reality, it’s very hard to stay compliant, especially as an Owner-Operator in the trucking industry. If you can manage your compliance, then you’ll live in a world where the IRS is no more than an afterthought. Let’s identify a few situations that cause people to be non-compliant with the IRS: Drivers can’t pay the full amount of their quarterly tax amount due Drivers wait to pay their taxes until their annual tax return, and can’t afford to pay Drivers can’t file their annual tax return on time These are all very common problems. To stay ahead of these as best you can... Don’t underestimate your quarterly taxes (also known as QTEs) Pay as much as possible for your QTEs if you can’t pay the full amount due File your annual tax return even if you can’t pay the full amount If there’s no chance you’re going to be able to file on time, request an extension - remember, though, that the extension is only an extension of time to file and NOT an extension of time to pay. So, as you can see, there are many ways we can work to strategize to stay in compliance . While not always easy, finding a good system to stay in compliance will make managing your tax obligations much simpler. If you do run into a pitfall with your tax obligations and find yourself owing back tax, then you will want to first address getting into a groove with your current tax payments and filings. Once you have your current compliance figured out, you are eligible to negotiate a resolution on the back tax you owe. This brings us to our next topic. Negotiate with the IRS (if needed) Alright, let’s talk about what happens when you aren’t able to stay ahead of Compliance problems with the IRS. This tends to be one of the least understood topics related to taxes and the IRS: What exactly happens if I don’t pay or file my taxes? First things first - it's important to understand that the IRS will NOT work with you to set up a resolution on your back tax until you are in compliance with filing and current tax payments . Why? Because until you show the IRS that you’re willing and able to get caught up on your taxes, they have no interest in negotiating the balance due. So, the first step in the ATBS Proven Path is to become IRS Compliant, and beyond that, also prove to the IRS that you’re willing to remain in compliance, so that you don't fall behind in the future. Let’s walk through a few topics to help you become IRS-compliant and complete the 1st of the ATBS Proven Path: Commit to correcting practices that have landed you in trouble with the IRS Get caught up on filing your taxes Be caught up on current year Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments That being said, we find that many clients still owe significant amounts of money to the IRS by the time they obtain compliance. If that’s the case, ATBS can move on to the 2nd step of the process - Negotiating with the IRS. How to Negotiate With the IRS The most important thing to remember as you work on negotiating with the IRS is that the person on the other side of the phone is, in fact, a person. The worst thing you could do is treat that human being like something less than. Second, it's important to have an understanding of what to expect when you're negotiating with the IRS. The IRS Negotiation process is different for every single person, but in general, there are really two key things that need to be done each time: Determine the total amount you owe once in filing Compliance; Obtain a payment plan with the IRS if you cannot afford to pay the total you owe. Third, it's important to be well-prepared for the negotiation you're about to embark on. You know you're in compliance, you know what to expect when talking with the IRS, and now you're ready to prepare your proposal for repayment of the debt to the IRS. It's important to have your finances clearly laid out to support the requested monthly payment you are looking to achieve. The IRS has a few different financial forms that they utilize to determine how much you should pay them monthly. Should you wish to have ATBS assist in your negotiations, our team will help in gathering this financial information from you and reviewing it with you prior to the IRS ever seeing that documentation. Once the financial form reflects your financial situation correctly and accurately, the information is provided to the IRS, and the negotiation is completed. The goal here is to obtain a payment plan that allows you to prioritize current taxes moving forward and allows you to pay your normal living expenses without impediment from the IRS. We care more about what you can afford to pay, and NOT what the IRS wants you to pay. Fourth, it's important to effectively complete the conversation with the IRS regarding your proposal to be placed in an Installment Agreement. Getting an IRS Representative on the phone is hard and requires a ton of patience! You’d be surprised how long it often takes to get an IRS agent on a live call… sometimes it takes waiting all day on hold to get one person on the line! If you don’t have the patience, sometimes it’s better to have someone do this work on your behalf . When you get an agent on the line, be sure to gather their badge number for your records. Record keeping is a key part of your negotiation because, more often than not, you’ll end up speaking to more than one agent during your negotiation. Always be sure to gather their info and document your call! Once you get an agent on the line, it’s time to review your financial form and propose your desired monthly payment amount. Helping the agent get a good understanding of your situation is the foundation you’ll build on during your negotiation! Lastly, you will wait for acceptance of your proposal. The IRS will send notice via US Mail of its decision. That notice will let you know if they’ve accepted your proposal and will reiterate the terms of the agreement. Once you receive that by mail, you are out of active Collections. If you do not receive that notice within the 2 weeks they have to send it to you, it is important to call them back and check the status of your account. Once the negotiation ends and a plan is in place, it’s time to move on to Step 3 in the ATBS Proven Path: Managing IRS Compliance. Managing IRS Compliance What does managing IRS compliance look like? First, you need to ensure you stay current with any Installment Agreements (payment plans) that you negotiated with the IRS. Second, you need to pay your taxes on time moving forward (each quarter). Finally, you need to file your annual taxes on time each year. It’s important to remember that any missed payments, new balance, or delinquent tax return will default any existing agreement, and you will need to start back at square one. While this is pretty simple and straightforward in theory, as we discussed earlier, it can be very easy to fall behind on your IRS Compliance. ATBS’ main goal in assisting clients with tax resolution is to effectively help them navigate the IRS Collections System in a way that results in lasting relief and compliance. How Can ATBS Help With Trucker Tax Resolution? Remember, ATBS can help with each step in the process. It’s part of what makes our relationship with our clients so unique. Where most companies can help with one or two aspects of the tax process, ATBS is set up to put all of the pieces together. If you aren’t familiar with ATBS, we have been in business for over 20 years, and we’ve helped over 150,000 owner-operators stay out of trouble with the IRS. We focus on saving drivers time, we help them earn (and keep) more income, and we reduce the stress of dealing with taxes so they can focus on driving their truck while keeping the IRS from being a daily burden. We do that via bookkeeping, accounting, tax, and business consulting services - specifically designed for owner-operators. When it comes to IRS Compliance (Step 1 and Step 3), our RumbleStrip services are what our clients use to stay out of trouble with the IRS. Not only can we help clients become compliant via our tax preparation services (Step 1), but our monthly RumbleStrip services are specifically designed to keep owner-operators compliant with the IRS (Step 3). Now, the reason why most of you are reading this is that you're looking for help negotiating with the IRS (Step 2). Great news: ATBS can help with that, too! ATBS Tax Debt Pit Crew ATBS’ Tax Debt Pit Crew is our team of trucking-specific tax resolution specialists who spend their days helping truckers - especially owner-operators - navigate the IRS Collections system and reach resolutions tailor-made for their specific financial aims and needs. We have several different levels of service available to help our clients, so let’s briefly highlight each one. We start with an Inspection . There is a one-time fee associated with this service. Our team of experts contacts the IRS, obtains historical and current data on a client’s account with them, and uses that information to draw a roadmap of possible resolution options. Once that inspection is concluded, the client will determine if they are all set to tackle the IRS issues on their own. If they wish for ATBS’ team to assist in implementing and negotiating the appropriate resolution strategy, then they will take advantage of one of our additional services. This service allows us to find out what is going on with the IRS and provide specific and appropriate options before ever quoting a client for full representation. This keeps things fair for our clients when it comes to making an educated decision on how they’d like to address their IRS tax debt. For clients who are starting to fall behind with the IRS, are missing a few years worth of tax returns or who owe between $10,000-$50,000 - we have our “ Tax Relief Tune-Up ” program. For clients who have more extensive issues to address with the IRS - greater than $50,000 in liability or more complex concerns - we recommend our “ Tax Relief Overhaul ” program. If you are in trouble with the IRS, or if you’re just trying to get ahead of any future problems with the IRS, our Tax Relief Pit Crew will be able to help you out! Summary We hope that this has offered you some knowledge and insight into the different ways that tax debt can be effectively prevented and managed. At ATBS, we know truckers, and we know how hard it is to overcome the feeling of hopelessness that can come with being behind with the IRS. Just remember that you are NOT alone! And, always remember that you can reach out to ATBS anytime to learn more about how we can help you put the IRS in your rearview mirror for good. Thank you for everything you do to keep America moving. We wish you all the best in your trucking business, and we’d be happy to talk with you more about ATBS and our Proven Path if you decide you’d like to learn more.

Two of the biggest costs in the trucking industry are fuel and tires. They are some of the expenses that eat into your profits more than anything else, and so any time that you can improve either of them, your company will be better for it. Fortunately, if you take the time to make sure that your tires are wearing properly, then you will also improve your fuel economy at the same time. Here are some tips that will help you save time, money, fuel, and tire life. Ensure Proper Tire Inflation This is a no-brainer. Just about every truck driver out there knows that an underinflated tire is wearing out faster, and is downright dangerous to use. The reason it is the first item on our list is that so many drivers don’t seem to pay attention to their tires or make sure that they are properly inflated. When you are inspected , you want to make sure that your rig is in top shape so you aren’t wasting time doing costly repairs, or wasting money with fines. But did you know that there are thousands of trucks on the road that are running on underinflated tires? Some even on flat tires? Properly inflated tires will ensure the least amount of drag when you are traveling. Less drag leads to better fuel economy. Use the Right Tires Generally speaking, you likely haul the same loads every trip, or at least something very similar. So you know what kind of tires you need for your truck and trailer. But when was the last time you looked at tire technology? It changes all the time as different rubbers are being discovered, and new ways of making the tires are being incorporated. The tires you have been using for the last five years are likely not the top of the line anymore. For instance, you might benefit from switching to a low rolling resistance tire . These tires have less tread on them, and therefore they have less drag. As we know less drag leads to better fuel economy. However, if you don’t make sure you have proper inflation, your investment in these tires will be negated. Maintain Your Truck You know the basics of maintenance, and you would never let something under the hood go without repairs. So why do many drivers ignore their trailers? Did you know that if you aren’t properly aligned, you could be losing 2% in your fuel economy? Let’s think about that for a minute. Suppose you get 8 mpg on average. But you aren’t properly aligned. This means your fuel economy is 2% lower than it could be (add 2% and we get 8.16 mpg). It doesn’t seem like much, but it adds up. If you drive 50,000 miles per year, you are currently burning through 6,250 gallons of diesel every year. This costs you $18,750 (at $3 per gallon). A 2% improvement in fuel economy means that you save 123 gallons of diesel or $369 per year. It doesn’t seem like a lot, but if you drive more, that number goes higher; if the price of fuel goes up, that number goes higher. Obviously, if you have a severe alignment issue, then you are experiencing even more than a 2% loss in fuel economy. Slow It Down The key to making a living is to get to your destination quickly so that you can turn around and get to the next destination quickly. But did you know that every mile per hour over 55 can result in a 2% reduction in fuel economy? That means going 55 mph, instead of 65mph, you get 20% better mpg. Of course, that means you spend more time on the road. More hours driving, or spend more on fuel (and subsequently more on tires that wear out faster). Which do you prefer? Wrapping It Up Improving your fuel economy is tricky since there are a lot of variables. If you do just one, you probably won’t see much of an improvement. However, if you take into account all of these tips, you could see your miles per gallon improve by 25% or more. Wouldn’t we all like to work the same amount, but be 25% more efficient?

As the weather starts to cool off, and everyone is about to be consumed with pumpkin-spice flavored everything, owner-operators should have something else on their mind: Winterizing their truck. Actively taking steps to prepare your truck for winter is crucial for keeping your costs down, and staying safe in the cold winter months. Follow these guidelines and get your truck ready - winter is just around the corner! Step One: Prepare an Emergency Kit Getting stranded in adverse weather conditions is far more likely in the winter months. Make sure you have adequate survival supplies in your truck, including: Extra blankets First aid kit Flashlight and extra batteries Canned food and bottled water Gloves Scarves Hats Snow boots Snow shovel Flares Radio Extra coolant, washer fluid, engine oil Extra fuel filter and fuel filter wrench Tire chains Step Two: Check The Battery The best time to check the age and condition of your battery is just before winter settles in. Freezing temperatures drain battery life quickly. If the battery is close to the typical 48-72-month life cycle, then it’s best to replace it. If not, inspect the battery to make sure it is securely mounted and that all connections are tightened and clean. Perform a load test, and check on the alternator and starter as well. Inspect the electrical wiring for any damage or frays, and make sure there are no loose or exposed wires. Step Three: Check the Fuel Filter and Water Separator Check to be sure the fuel filter is in good condition, and replace it if necessary. To reduce the risk of damage to the engine, monitor the water separator on a daily basis. Water is a common contaminant in diesel fuel and can shorten an engine’s life. If a large amount of water has been collected, it should be drained. Most separators are not self-cleaning, so you’ll need to locate the separator, near the fuel filter, and turn the drain valve to empty the water. This is especially important during the winter months because condensation forms on the inside of a warm fuel tank as the outside temperature cools. Step Four: Use Fuel Additives Diesel fuel contains paraffin, a wax, which crystallizes at freezing temperatures. This causes water in the fuel to emulsify and the fuel becomes slushy and gel-like. The fuel cannot pass through the fuel filter and the problem only gets worse when temperatures continue to drop. This gelling of fuel can lead to rough vehicle operation and in some cases, engine failure. To avoid this, check the cetane rating of the fuel at the pump - the higher the better, and add anti-gel fuel additives at each fill-up to enhance performance. Check your owner’s manual for specific additive guidelines and always follow mixing procedures exactly, or you risk damaging your fuel system. Read more : Diesel Winterization . Step Five: Inspect the Cooling System Proper maintenance of the cooling system is a major part of winterizing. Anything that’s worn, damaged, or cracked is only going to get worse as the temperature drops. Perform a comprehensive inspection of the entire system, including the radiator, inspecting the hoses for any bulges, and checking hose clamps to ensure they are secure and not damaged. You should have a coolant test conducted to be sure that your coolant is at an optimum freeze point. Checking the additive levels to determine if the coolant needs to be changed or adjusted should become part of your regular maintenance plan. Last, it’s critical that you use the proper coolant for your truck, and never use aerosol ether starting fluid. Step Six: Keep the Engine Warm Diesel engines require a higher cylinder temperature than gasoline vehicles, which means that they are considerably more difficult to start in cold weather. If you travel or live in a cold climate, you may want to consider installing an electric block heater to keep the engine warm while it’s turned off. Make sure that the block heater cord will accommodate a three-prong plug and ensure it is securely held in place. Step Seven: Inspect the Air Dryer The air dryer, installed between the compressor and wet tank, collects and removes contaminants from the air before they enter the brake system. This prevents water from freezing in the brake lines. It’s important to inspect the air dryer to ensure that it is functioning properly and to also replace the filter if necessary. Make sure to drain the air reservoirs periodically. Failing to maintain your air dryer can lead to extremely dangerous malfunctioning brakes. Step Eight: Prepare the Windshield When snow and ice accumulate on the windshield, it makes driving difficult and dangerous. Just before winter hits, inspect your windshield wipers and replace them if needed. Make sure your windshield wiper fluid is filled and that you have switched to a cold temperature blend. Keep extra bottles of washer fluid in your truck in case you run out unexpectedly. Step Nine: Check the Tires Your tires must be in good shape to navigate through the snowy and icy roads ahead. Inspect your tires thoroughly and make sure they are inflated to the proper pressure rating. Find out which states require chains , and make sure you have the correct size and number of chains in your truck at all times. Inspect the chains for worn, twisted, or damaged links and replace them when needed. Read more : Winter Tire Tips . Finally, know your limits. Do-it-yourself maintenance is often very cost effective, however, you can easily get in over your head if you aren’t a mechanic. Don’t compromise safety, which can cause serious damage to the vehicle and put you and others at risk. When in doubt, make an appointment with a trusted mechanic and leave it to the professionals. Stay safe out there this winter!

Being a truck driver often means spending long hours on the road, which can make it challenging to find healthy and delicious meal options. Here are 25 road-friendly recipes that are easy to prepare at home, store in the truck, and eat while on the go: Turkey and Avocado Wraps : Whole wheat wraps filled with turkey slices, avocado, lettuce, and your favorite condiments. Cold Pasta Salad : A pasta salad with chopped veggies, Italian dressing, and your choice of protein (i.e. chicken, or shrimp). Greek Yogurt Parfait : Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a protein-packed breakfast. Chicken and Vegetable Skewers : Precooked chicken and vegetable skewers that can be enjoyed cold or easily reheated. Rice and Bean Burritos : Fill tortillas with rice, black beans, salsa, and cheese for a satisfying meal. Smoothies : Pre-blend and keep in a cooler/fridge; use yogurt, fruits, and protein powder. Rotisserie Chicken & Microwaveable Veggies : Buy pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and pre-packaged steamed vegetable bags for a fulfilling dinner. Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps : Tuna mixed with mayo, diced celery, and onions, wrapped in lettuce leaves. Hard-Boiled Eggs on Toast : Cut your eggs in half and layer them on a piece of toast, or egg muffin sandwich, and add a little bit of salt, pepper, and other breakfast sandwich toppings. Overnight Oats: Combine oats, milk, yogurt, and your favorite toppings in a container to enjoy the next morning. Tuna on Crackers: Buy flavored tuna packets and enjoy them on saltine crackers. Protein bars: Have a protein bar with a piece of fruit for a quick breakfast. Caprese Skewers : Add grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves on skewers with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Stuffed Bell Peppers : Fill halved bell peppers with cooked ground meat, rice, and veggies. Meal Replacement Shakes : Add milk to a vanilla, or chocolate, protein shake and have a banana or apple on the side for a quick and protein-packed breakfast. Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich : Spread peanut butter on whole-grain bread and add sliced bananas. Egg Muffins : Whisk eggs with veggies and cheese, then bake in muffin tins for a portable breakfast. Pre-made Salad Kits: Mix canned tuna or canned chicken with your pre-made salad kit for extra protein. Chicken Quesadillas : Grill some chicken breast, sautee your favorite veggies, and add cheese inside a tortilla until melted. Beef Jerky, String Cheese, and Fruit : Save time by having a few snacks for lunch. Tuna Sandwich : Add a can of tuna, mayo, and other ingredients like avocado, or tomatoes, and place it on top of your favorite bread for a quick lunch. Chicken Caesar Wrap: Tortillas filled with grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing. Scrambled Egg and Rice Bowl : Scramble eggs and cook the rice ahead of time, add a dash of soy sauce, salt, and pepper, for a light breakfast. Mason Jar Salads : Layer your favorite salad ingredients in a mason jar for a quick and fresh meal. Quinoa and Black Bean Salad : Cooked quinoa mixed with black beans, cherry tomatoes, diced red onions, and a zesty lime dressing. Remember to stay hydrated by carrying plenty of water and, whenever possible, try to incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into your meals. And don't forget to take advantage of the Per Diem tax break that allows you to deduct your meals while on the road! Safe travels!

As the year winds down and routines slow a bit, winter can be a natural time to pause, reset, and get your financial life in order. With a little extra focus, you can set yourself up for a smoother and more confident year ahead. Here are some practical ways to refresh your finances this season. Get organized Winter often brings a chance to catch up on the tasks that get pushed aside during busier months. This is a good moment to organize your financial accounts. For example, if you have IRAs spread across different providers, consider consolidating them. It can reduce fees, simplify your paperwork, and give you a clearer view of your overall strategy. When required minimum distributions eventually come into play, having everything in one place will make them much easier to manage. Review your protection A new year on the horizon is a good reminder to take a closer look at whether your insurance coverage still fits your needs. Make sure your life insurance would support your family’s major financial obligations. Check that your disability coverage would provide stability if you couldn’t work for a period of time. And think about how you’d handle long-term care expenses in the future. Talking with a financial professional can help you determine whether your current coverage is still the right fit. Check for recurring expenses Many people discover unused subscriptions or services when reviewing their year-end statements. Take a moment to look through your bank or credit card activity. If you notice anything you no longer use or need, canceling it can put immediate savings back into your budget. Work on reducing debt If paying down debt is one of your goals, winter is a great time to start. You can try the Avalanche Method, focusing on the highest-interest debt first, or the Snowball Method, paying off smaller balances to build momentum. Either approach can help you make steady progress toward becoming debt-free. Clear out what you don’t need Over time, it’s easy to accumulate investments that repeat each other or no longer serve a purpose. Reviewing your portfolio now can help you identify duplicate or outdated holdings. By removing what doesn’t fit your goals anymore, you can make room for investments that offer more meaningful value. Begin planning for next year’s taxes Don’t wait until late next year to think about your taxes. Review your withholding if you’re a W-2 employee to make sure your W-4 reflects your current situation. If you’ve had major life changes, your allowances may need updating. This is also a good time to make charitable contributions or organize important financial documents, helping make tax season easier and less stressful. Taking these steps during winter can help you start the new year feeling more prepared and in control of your financial future.

Owing taxes to the Federal Government is never intended to be part of the plan, yet we can find ourselves in this position for a number of reasons. Whether a truck broke down, a mortgage needed to be paid, or an unexpected health emergency occurred, it is not uncommon to be placed in a position where you are choosing to sacrifice the funds you would have otherwise paid towards your tax bill just to stay afloat personally. In 2022, nearly 58.2 million taxpayers were in a position where they needed to interact with Internal Revenue Service (IRS) collections in some way. So, while it can feel scary, intimidating, or lonely to owe the IRS money, it is not a unique circumstance and there are a myriad of ways to tackle the problem to be sure you get back on track with them. Many people reach out to Tax Resolution Firms (or, are hounded by them in the other direction) when looking for direction on how best to address a tax debt. The same way we seek help from a doctor, lawyer, or CPA for certain and specific advice, it can be very helpful to track down help when looking to address tax debt. With that said, it is equally, if not more important, to really research, vet, and ask questions of the people you would be entrusting with this process. Choosing the wrong representative can lead to long delays with the IRS, avoidable IRS penalties, and very costly fees for work that ultimately never gets completed. Having worked for 4-different companies in my 11-year career, and knowing folks who work (or who have worked) for many other companies, I take great pride in keeping a finger on the pulse of the industry so that I can serve people in the most effective way possible. The industry has changed significantly over the years and there are many options when it comes to finding someone to help you. While I never make a point of speaking ill for the sake of it and I believe there are very good firms out there to work with, I think it is time to shine light on some of the more predatory practices I’ve seen so as to help people avoid falling into these traps themselves. I will outline here some of the more egregious practices I’ve seen and some tips and tricks to choosing a representative. The first thing to always remember is that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Firms will sell you an Offer in Compromise (part of the Fresh Start Initiative) without even properly qualifying you for this type of strategy. While there are a number of IRS programs designed to help taxpayers resolve their debts in a way tailored to their specific needs, the idea of settlements (Offers in Compromise) should not be a first thought. 1 in 1,124 Offers in Compromise are accepted by the IRS. They are becoming more and more rare as the years go on. The bar to qualify for this type of resolution has become so high that unless you have a truly ironclad case, it is highly unlikely this type of resolution strategy would be effective. Firms often charge between $5,000-$20,000 to submit this type of resolution. The process can take up to two years and then when the IRS rejects the offer, the firm will charge you again to reach the payment plan you probably should have been set up on in the first place. Be sure that any company you choose to engage with is not charging you for this type of service up front without ever having talked to the IRS. Furthermore, you will want to be sure they have truly qualified you for this and have outlined clearly the reasons why they believe this would be successful for you, specifically. A second thing to pay attention to is the use of fear tactics. Is a firm attempting to scare you into letting them represent you? Firms will often try to scare folks into hiring them by threatening that the IRS can seize all of their assets and garnish all of their wages. They will make tax liens sound like they are going to ruin you financially. They will tell you that you are open to enforcement and that if you pay them today, their team of experts will put an immediate stop to this type of action just by virtue of you signing a Power of Attorney. These types of marketing tactics are misleading, unfair to the consumer, and are often factually untrue. Keep in mind that the IRS does not just seize property. It takes a long time for that to even be on the table and you would have had to neglect your debt for a long time. Even if you’ve received notices from the IRS that state, “Notice of Intent to Seize or Levy,” you typically still have time to address it with them before that action takes place. Additionally, the IRS does not just throw people in jail; they don’t freeze driver's licenses (though some States can if you owe a State Tax); and, they don’t stop you from traveling if you hold a currently valid passport (they can keep you from renewing or obtaining a new passport, but as soon as you are in a resolution with them, that action is reversed). The bottom line is, if someone is trying to scare you into letting them “help” you, they are likely not worried about your best interests. While you will not always hear what you want to hear, a good representative should always lead with providing answers to your questions and outlining all available options so you can make the best and most educated decision for yourself specifically. Instilling fear for the sake of forcing you to engage in representation has no place in that process. The last predatory type of action I’m going to address here is a newer tactic that I’ve seen arise in the last year. This is where a Tax Resolution Firm will “partner with” or “suggest” a specific lender who can issue you a loan to cover your fee with the firm and then you are paying back this lender for the work you hope the Tax Resolution Firm will complete for you. This might be the most insidious behavior I’ve seen in my experience. These firms often rely on scare tactics and over-promise you results - the two prior items discussed in this article. They quote you a fee for services without ever having talked to the IRS on your behalf and they’ve scared you so much that you feel you have no other option, but to go along with what they are selling you. They then offer a “quick and easy” solution to your problem of not having the full fee to get started with them when they set you up with this lender who can help. The lender approves the loan and issues the funds on your behalf to the Tax Resolution Firm. Now, the firm has been paid in full and you are now stuck with a bill owed to the lender who paid them for you. This makes it so much more difficult to hold your new representatives accountable to what they promised you. You can’t ask for a refund. You can’t stop payments. You are hog tied to that debt regardless of whether that firm delivers or not. If a firm is offering to set you up with a lender, my suggestion is to RUN AWAY. While there are many things to look out for when considering hiring a firm to represent you, the biggest thing is to remember that self-advocacy is the most important part of your process. You should feel like you understand the process, that you can ask questions and be heard, that you can reach someone when you need to speak with them, and that you feel you are still in the driver’s seat when it comes to the financial well being of your household and family. If you feel you have questions about any of the above or have experienced these types of tactics, feel free to reach out to our team at ATBS . Regardless of whether you are currently using us for services, it is important to us that taxpayers have access to resources that can help them navigate the complexities of the IRS collections system without falling prey to nefarious firms who over-promise, over-charge, and under-deliver.

Working hard and doing your job the best you can are good practices to follow. However, is that all you need to do to succeed in your trucking business? There are more general business practices that should be followed to achieve success. Have a Plan A business plan is a solid foundation for any business owner. You don’t have to spend long hours and a lot of money to develop your plan, but it should contain the basics: What is the feasibility of the business idea?  What can you reasonably expect in revenue and what is your cost to operate? Then determine what profit margin to expect. Know your breakeven point (or breakeven miles).  Your business plan should communicate at what revenue point (daily, weekly, monthly, or at how many miles) you have covered all your costs, known as the breakeven point or breakeven miles. Factor in your personal costs as part of your business plan and re-evaluate costs at least every six months or whenever there is a significant change in your business or personal life. For example, consultants at ATBS work with small business owners on this process regularly and help customize their clients’ plans to become their personal “profit plan.” Manage Time and Produce Efficiently Simply generating more business or running more miles does not always translate to more money in your pocket. Managing your time according to business cycles will help you to predict when a slow time is approaching, so you can be prepared with savings to back up your business. Slow times are also good to know for personal time and vacation. Taking a vacation during a busy season is not a smart business decision. Keep Good Records and Have an Accounting System Record keeping is not only vital for a less stressful tax time , but provides a good base of information to make informed business management decisions. Basic accounting statements , like a Profit and Loss Statement (P&L), compile revenue records and business expense receipts into an easy-to-read snapshot of your business operations. This accounting report should not only communicate the gross revenue and net income of the business but also identify the strengths and weaknesses of your operation as compared to your business plan. This will allow you to place your efforts where they will have the most impact on the bottom line. Respect Your Customers As a small business owner, you have complete control over your relationship with the customer. Trust is an essential element for business success. Develop trust early to watch your business flourish. Do a good job for your customers and don’t make excuses. Comply With Laws and Regulations  Even the most well run and profitable business can fail if it's run outside of established industry laws and regulations. Many of the laws and regulations, especially in the transportation industry, seem cumbersome and can even be annoying, but they are part of every industry. Ignoring laws and regulations will affect your bottom line and possibly put you out of business quickly. Work With Industry Experts Seek the professional advice of business consultants and counselors within your industry. This is the best way to improve your company’s chances of success. You may be the best trucker in the industry, with many years of experience, but the chances of being successful are improved dramatically when you also utilize good basic business practices.

The weather is beginning to get a little cooler across the United States and some of the higher elevations are beginning to see snow. That means it’s time to freshen up on the chain laws in the states that you regularly run. Alabama The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Alaska You are not permitted to use chains from May 1 through September 15 when north of 60 North Latitude. You are not permitted to use chains from April 15 through September 30 when south of 60 North Latitude. If you are operating a vehicle on Sterling Highway, you are not permitted to use chains from May 1 through September 15. You will need to obtain a special permit from the Department of Administration if you would like to use chains in one of these prohibited zones. Arizona The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Arkansas The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. California California does not require trucks to carry chains during any specified time period. When the weather hits, though, it takes at least eight chains for a standard tractor-trailer configuration to comply with the regulations. During the winter months, there might be traction chain controls in the mountain areas. When these are established you will see signs posted along the highway. These signs will also include the type of requirement, which will include one of the following: R1 - Chains, traction devices or snow tires are required on the drive axle of all vehicles except four wheel/ all wheel drive vehicles. R2 - Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four wheel/ all wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels. R3 - Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles, no exceptions. Colorado From September 1 through May 31, all trucks must carry sufficient chains on I-70 when traveling between mile marker 259 outside Golden, CO and mile marker 133 in Dotsero, CO. If you get stopped and do not have chains on your truck, the fine is $50 plus a surcharge of $16. If you do not put chains on your truck when the law is in effect, the fine is $500 plus a $78 surcharge. If you do not put chains on and you end up blocking the highway, then the fine will increase to $1,000 plus a $156 surcharge. Colorado has two different types of chain laws: Level 1 - Single-axle combination commercial vehicles must chain up. Trucks must have all four drive tires in chains. When level 1 is in effect, all other commercial vehicles must have snow tires or chains. Level 2 - When level 2 is in effect, all commercial vehicles are required to chain up the four drive tires. Connecticut Chains are permitted during hazardous weather from November 15 through April 30. The chains can not be damaging to the highway’s surface. Delaware You are permitted to use chains on highways from October 15 through April 15. State officials can restrict travel on highways during emergency situations. Georgia At any time the Georgia Department of Transportation may close or limit access to certain highways during inclement weather. If this occurs, signage will be placed to inform drivers that chains are required in order to proceed. For commercial vehicles, chains must be placed on the outermost drive tires. Idaho Officials with the Idaho Department of Transportation can determine that it is unsafe to drive over Lookout Pass and Fourth of July Pass on I-90, and Lolo Pass on Highway 12. If it is deemed unsafe, then you will be required to chain up a minimum of one tire on each drive axle and one axle at or near the rear. Illinois The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Indiana The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Iowa The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Kansas The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Kentucky No person shall use on a highway not covered with ice a vehicle with a chained wheel unless the wheel rests upon an ice-shoe at least 6 inches wide. When chains are used on rubber-tired vehicles, the cross chains shall be not more than three-fourths (3/4) of an inch in thickness or diameter, and shall be spaced not more than ten inches apart, around the circumference of the tires. Louisiana The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Maine Vehicles cannot have tires with metal studs, wires, spikes or other metal protruding from the tire tread from May 1 through October 1. Other than that the use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Maryland The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Massachusetts Massachusetts prohibits the use of studded tires and chains between May 1 and November 1 without a permit. The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Michigan The use of chains is allowed for safety when snow, ice, or other condition are present. If chains are used, they must not come in direct contact with the roads surface. Minnesota The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Mississippi The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Missouri No person shall operate any motor vehicle upon any road or highway of this state between the first day of April and the first day of November while the motor vehicle is equipped with tires containing metal or carbide studs. The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Montana You are permitted to use chains on highways from October 1 through May 1. If the Montana Department of Transportation determines that highways are too dangerous for travel, they may establish the following recommendations on traction devices: Chains or other approved traction devices recommended for drive wheels Chains or other approved traction devices required for drive wheels Chains required for driver wheels Nebraska The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways from November 1 to April 1. Nevada It is unlawful for any person to operate a motor vehicle, whether it is an emergency vehicle or otherwise, without traction devices, tire chains or snow tires upon any street or highway, under icy or snowy conditions, when the highway is marked or posted with signs for the requirement of traction devices, chains or snow tires. If a highway is marked or posted with signs requiring the use of traction devices, tire chains or snow tires, a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles must be equipped with: Traction devices, tire chains or snow tires if it has a gross weight or combined gross weight of 10,000 pounds or less. Tire chains if it has a gross weight or combined gross weight of more than 10,000 pounds. New Hampshire The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. New Jersey The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. New Mexico The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. New York The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. North Carolina The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. North Dakota North Dakota also allows metal studs within 1/16 inch beyond tread from October 15 through April 15. The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Ohio The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways from November 1 to April 15. Oklahoma The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Oregon Oregon’s law applies to all highways in the state. Signs will tell you when you are required to carry chains and when you are required to use them. You will need to have six chains on hand to comply in Oregon. The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Pennsylvania The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Rhode Island The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. South Carolina The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. South Dakota The South Dakota DOT has the authority to restrict travel on roads. Signs will alert you to these restrictions. The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Tennessee The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways from October 1 to April 15 . Texas The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Utah When any designated highway is so restricted no vehicle shall be allowed or permitted the use of the highway, during the period between October 1 and April 30, or when conditions warrant due to adverse, or hazardous weather or roadway conditions, as determined by the Utah Department of Transportation, unless: An operator of a commercial vehicle with four or more drive wheels, other than a bus, shall affix tire chains to at least four of the drive wheel tires. Vermont Vermont has a traffic committee that will decide if use of chains will be required. The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Vehicles with semitrailers or trailers that have a tandem-drive axle towing a trailer shall have chains: On two tires on each side of the primary drive axle, or if both axles of the vehicle are powered by the drive line, one tire on each side of each drive axle; and On one tire of the front axle and one tire on one of the rear axles of the trailer. Virginia The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Washington Any commercial vehicle over 10,000 lbs. Gross vehicle weight rating should carry chains from November 1 to April 1 when driving on one of the following routes: Blewett Pass SR-97 between MP 145 and Milepost 185 Chinook Pass SR-410 Enumclaw (MP 25) to SR-12 (MP 342) Cle Elum to Teanaway SR-970 Cle Elum (MP 0) to Teanaway (MP 10) Gibbons Creek to Intersection of Cliffs Rd. SR-14 Gibbons Creek (MP 18) to Intersection of Cliffs Rd. (MP 108) Mt. Baker Highway (Ellensburg to Selah) SR-542 (MP22) to (MP 57) I-82 from Ellensburg (MP 3) to Selah (MP 26) Newhalem to Winthrop SR-20 Newhalem (MP 120) to Winthrop (MP 192) Omak to Nespelem SR-155 Omak (MP 79) to Nespelem (MP 45) Satus Pass SR-97 Columbia River (MP 00) to Toppenish (MP 59) Sherman Pass SR-20 Tonasket (MP 262) to Kettle Falls (MP 342) Snoqualmie Pass I-90 North Bend (MP 32) and Ellensburg (MP 101) Stevens Pass SR-2 Dryden (MP 108) to Index (MP 36) White Pass SR-12 Packwood (MP 135) to Naches (MP 187) West Virginia The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Wisconsin The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Wyoming When the chain law is in effect due to snow, ice or other conditions, travel on a highway may be restricted to use only by motor vehicles utilizing adequate snow tires or tire chains. There are two levels. Level 1: When conditions are hazardous, travel can be restricted to vehicles equipped with tire chains, vehicles with adequate snow tires, or all-wheel-drive vehicles. Level 2: When conditions are extremely hazardous, travel can be restricted to vehicles equipped with tire chains or all-wheel-drive vehicles equipped with adequate mud and snow or all-weather-rated tires. The operator of a commercial vehicle shall affix tire chains to at least two (2) of the drive wheels of the vehicle at opposite ends of the same drive axle when the vehicle is required to utilize tire chains under this subsection. Any driver that is in violation will face a fine of no more than $250. If the violation results in the closure of all lanes in one or both directions of a highway, you will face a fine of no more than $750. Image Source - https://www.flickr.com/photos/toddmccann/

The ease at which a trucker's mental health can deteriorate is alarming. Basing my assumptions and framework on the gold standard CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) I will analyze and comment on these working conditions. To begin, I will grossly oversimplify CBT. Generally, mental health can be conceptualized by three pillars: Diet Exercise Thoughts/mental diet Diet Nutrition is a cornerstone of mental health, the old adage “you are what you eat” can attest to this. With a layman's understanding of nutrition, we can look around any truckstop and see walking, talking big macs. I'm speaking of the trucks, of course. To borrow a metaphor from Ms. Minaj, some drivers have a hard time parking their big macs butts in their little garage, or driver seat. With the coercion of the Cinnabons and the convenience of the calories, is it any wonder why there’s an obesity epidemic in America, with truckers being one of the most at-risk demos? Moving on. Exercise Exercise can be challenging for the best of us, and truckers have additional obstacles. Much like people in the office, their job requires stationary/stationery. Yes, paper and pens, as well as inactivity. However, the driver's constant traveling makes a gym membership and routine a little harder. A small investment in a Fitbit of HRM (heart rate monitor) will bring awareness to your activity level. Valuable insight as to what factors may contribute to mental health. I will also include sleep in this section, because that’s vital, as well. Think of this category as the level of activity. We want to balance well rest with bursts of cardio throughout the week. Thoughts/Mental Diet Finally, the info we choose to consume. It's all too easy to watch the news and stress out. That, combined with shallow entertainment, doesn't add any real value to our life other than to ease boredom and distract from substantive issues in our personal lives and the greater world. We must raise the standards of what we permit into our minds. Consciously selecting the content, as if it were a choice piece of meat or fruit. Being mindful of what we consume mentally and physically, in order to prevent spiraling into unwanted mental states and chemical imbalances. Keep in mind these consumables have been conditioning us for years, so understand it will take slow and steady changes to alter yourself. I've recently been evaluating my environment through the perspective that actions and behaviors reflect values. With this paradigm, I can look at my own beliefs and infer conclusions. Am I acting in harmony with my chosen values? For example, one of my top values is my time. I want to live a long time with a healthy body, but do my actions reflect that? If not, what does that say about my self-care? Do I feel unworthy of my health and happiness? What would I have to do to care about myself enough to act in that way? Same thing with my financial situation - do I commit the acts of a person that deserves wealth and abundance? This goes right into the next highly held value I have: relationships. With myself, my spouse, business partners, and society. They all share the same fundamentals: communication, trust, respect, (self-respect especially), and compassion. When it comes to trucking, maintaining close relationships is very challenging. Having that support system in place can be the difference between life and death in some cases. When people act in self-destructive ways, or any behavior that contradicts their best interests, it's because part of them wanted to. They are "of two minds," but they have yet to set a coherent orientation. This touches on the unconscienced conditioning from our parents and society, but at some point, we get the opportunity to wake up. To wake up is to take responsivity for everything in your life, and it begins with healing the mind. Not all perspectives are equal, but they do deserve respect. Some beliefs reflected by our actions/behaviors are more empowering than others. A healed perspective drops limiting beliefs. An integrated mind does not self-sabotage, that's what healing is. We all deserve the love and prosperity we desire. It's time to start acting like it. Audiobook; How to Do the Work, by Dr. Nicole LePera https://youtu.be/LnfF1xUSOjo Podcast; Optimize & Control Your Brain Chemistry to Improve Health & Performance, by Dr. Andrew Huberman: https://youtu.be/T65RDBiB5Hs Audiobook; Nutrient Power, by William J. Walsh on Audible https://www.audible.com/pd/Nutrient-Power-Audiobook/B00BSH2N0O?source_code=ASSOR150021921000R

As a truck driver, there are some expenses you know are going to cost you the most from month to month. Unlike many of your other biggest expenses, fuel is one that you have a lot of control over. Other than choosing stops with the lowest net cost of fuel and adding aerodynamics to your truck, there are many other strategies you can employ while driving in order to spend less on fuel. These strategies are controlled between your ears and are the decisions you make and the habits you form when driving your truck. Here are a few tips for how to drive your truck to maximize fuel efficiency and put thousands of dollars back into your pocket. Drive Slower Truckers don’t get much encouragement from their shipper or receiver to get somewhere slower. But speed is the number one reason for increased fuel consumption and reduced profits. The faster you go, the more fuel you are going to use . In fact, a simplified rule of thumb is every mile per hour driven over 60 mph reduces fuel economy by one-tenth of a mile per gallon. The typical argument against driving slower is that you can make better time by driving faster, and therefore make more money. For the purpose of this article, we are talking about how you can save money on fuel by driving slower. Here is a hypothetical example of how much more a truck driver will have to drive per year to make up the additional fuel cost of driving faster. Compare one driver running at 70 mph getting 6.5 mpg and another running at 60 mph getting 7.5 mpg. Over an hour, driver A is 10 miles further down the road than driver B, but at $3.50/gal., he’s spent around $10 more to go those 10 miles in the same amount of time. That might not seem like much money, but the impact over an entire year is significant. If you drive 110,000 miles per year and average 6.5 mpg vs. 7.5 mpg because you drive faster, you will spend $7,898 more on fuel. Find the Sweet Spot of Your Engine The “ sweet spot ” is the most efficient RPM to run your engine. Running your engine in its sweet spot requires that you drive at a constant speed that is usually slower. If your engine is working harder in order to drive at a certain speed, more fuel is going to be used. Modern engines are designed for high torque at low RPMs. The lower the RPMs your engine is running to pull the load the less fuel it has to burn to create energy and overcome all the forces acting against your truck and load (like gravity, rolling resistance, mechanical resistance, and air pressure). The trick is using torque, not horsepower to pull your load. Pulling with horsepower means you are using more energy and therefore burning more fuel. Pulling with torque means you are sustaining your speed without having to overwork the engine. In general, a good sweet spot tends to be between 1250 - 1350 RPM. The number not to exceed is 1500 RPM. Every truck engine and drivetrain spec varies, which is why your owner’s manual should list the ideal range for your engine. If you don't know it and aren’t able to find it in the owner’s manual, make sure to contact your dealer and they can let you know peak horsepower and peak torque at a specific RPM. Keep in mind that there are external factors that are going to affect your sweet spot. The main takeaway is that the lower the RPM, the less fuel your engine will consume. Be Smart with Braking As you are driving, it's inevitable that you are going to have to use your brakes. In fact, there are going to be times when you need to forcibly apply your brakes to be safe. However, there are ways to drive so you don’t have to use your brakes as much. The problem with braking in terms of fuel efficiency is that every time you touch the brake you lose energy -- you have to accelerate and burn energy (fuel) to get back up to speed. In order to accelerate and get back up to speed, you must put your foot down on the accelerator pedal and work the engine which burns additional fuel. Two of the best ways to reduce braking are to anticipate changes in traffic and follow at an extended distance. By making this a habit, you’ll leave plenty of distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. You won’t have to brake every time the car in front of you does. Also, if a vehicle pulls in front of you, there is plenty of room for that vehicle if they slow down. This way you won’t have to slam on your brakes to prevent rear-ending them. Stay in Higher Gears For those who have experience driving trucks, shifting gears is second nature. However, some may not have thought about shifting gears in relation to fuel efficiency. You’re driving a truck -- not a race car. Every time you hear and feel your RPMs go up you’re burning excess fuel. That’s fine at the race track on Sunday afternoon, but it’s not fine if you’re working to maximize your trucking business’ profits over the next twelve months. At a consistent speed, the lower the gear, the higher the RPM. This means the harder the engine has to work to go that speed, which also means the more fuel is being burned. Paying attention to your gears to maximize fuel efficiency is similar to finding the engine’s sweet spot. This is because the gear you are in determines how much the engine is working. Remember...modern engines are built for high torque at low RPMs. When you are driving it’s better to shift to the next highest gear while still at a low RPM and in the sweet spot of the torque curve, rather than waiting for the engine to run up to a high RPM. Keep in mind, driving fast in a low gear consumes about 45% more fuel than is needed. Additional Tips Think about Your Momentum In order to go forward, you don’t always need to have your foot pressed all the way down. If you need to accelerate, think about speeding up gradually. Be aware when going up and down hills and try to safely build momentum going downhill so that you don’t have to use so much fuel to get up the next hill. Utilize Cruise Control If you are on a stretch of highway that isn’t busy, don’t be hesitant to use cruise control. Using cruise control can help you go at a consistent speed and keep you from doing unnecessary accelerations and decelerations. Cruise control can actually save you up to 6% in fuel consumption. Cut Out of Route Miles Use your atlas or GPS to take the shortest and quickest reasonable route with the least stops to your destination. If you need to stop, try to plan that stop for filling up, going to the restroom, eating, and anything else you need to get done in order to avoid going off route to stop again. Typically 6-10% of owner-operators’ miles are out of route. Try cutting this in half by really thinking about your stops and staying consistent with your route. Minimize Idling The average truck burns a half-gallon of fuel at 650 RPM to one full gallon of fuel at 1,000 RPM per hour of idling. Idling 8 hours a day can cost $200 a week, and increases maintenance costs. Many states, counties, and cities actually have idling reduction laws with fines. Aside from saving fuel, an unattended truck that is idling is also easier to steal and creates unnecessary security issues. Do you now know how to drive a truck for maximum fuel efficiency? Thinking about these things while driving is important for any trucker. As a company driver, you may get bonuses from your carrier if you are consistently driving efficiently. For owner-operators, fuel costs almost always rank as the number one expense. Because of this, it's crucial that you drive your truck for maximum fuel efficiency. These aren’t the only things you can do to maximize fuel efficiency but these are some of the free things that you can easily put into practice today while driving in order to spend less money on fuel. Every penny you save by cutting your fuel costs goes directly into your pocket!