3 Key Takeaways from "Inside the Business of Roadside Assistance" - Trucking For Millennials Podcast feat. Corey @DOTRoadside

The trucking industry is the lifeblood of commerce, with countless trucks crisscrossing the highways to deliver goods to every corner of the country.

But what happens when things go wrong on the open road?

In a recent episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Corey, a seasoned expert in roadside assistance, who shared invaluable insights into the world of truck maintenance and emergency services. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation that every trucker and fleet owner should know.

Takeaway 1: The Importance of Preventative Maintenance

One of the most striking points Corey made was about the critical role of preventative maintenance in avoiding breakdowns. According to Corey, a staggering "75-25 preventable" percentage of roadside issues could have been avoided with proper care and pre-trip inspections. This statistic alone should be a wake-up call for drivers and fleet managers alike.

"You're never going to prevent debris in the road taking out a tire. But what you can prevent is you didn't do your pre-trip, and your brake's locked up on your trailer, or your bearing's getting hot and blows a tire, right?" - Corey

Corey's words underscore the need for a culture of maintenance within the trucking industry. It's not just about changing the oil; it's about listening to your vehicle, understanding its needs, and addressing potential issues before they escalate. This proactive approach not only saves money in the long run but also ensures the safety of drivers and the reliability of deliveries.

Takeaway 2: Building Relationships with Roadside Assistance Providers

Another invaluable piece of advice from Corey revolves around the importance of networking within the trucking community, especially when it comes to roadside assistance. Having a network of trusted professionals can be the difference between a quick fix and a costly tow.

"Build those networks. Always, always, always build those networks. Even if your local guy, you know, there is other towing associations in each state. They kind of have some little ones. You can reach out to those guys and say, hey, you know, who's who's the guys that are horrible? Who's the guys going to treat me right?" - Corey

By establishing relationships with roadside assistance providers before an emergency strikes, truckers can ensure they have a reliable contact to call. This not only helps in getting back on the road faster but also in potentially receiving better rates and service due to the established rapport.

Takeaway 3: Understanding the Realities of Roadside Assistance

The final takeaway is a reality check about the roadside assistance industry. Corey shed light on the often misunderstood aspects of towing and recovery, including the costs and risks involved. He highlighted the dangers roadside workers face and the significant investments required for the proper equipment.

"One tow truck operator every seven days, tow truck roadside guy is killed one every seven days on average per year. And that's through accidents, people not paying attention, self-inflicted, laying underneath, doing something dumb, whatever, but one every seven days." - Corey

This sobering statistic is a reminder of the hazards these professionals encounter and why the costs associated with their services are justified. It's crucial for truckers and fleet owners to recognize the value of roadside assistance and to approach these interactions with respect and understanding.

In conclusion, our conversation with Corey was not only eye-opening but also packed with practical advice. From the critical need for preventative maintenance to the importance of building a network of roadside assistance contacts, and understanding the realities of the industry, these takeaways are essential for anyone involved in trucking. Remember, the next time you hit the road, the decisions you make before and during your trip can have a significant impact on your safety, your wallet, and your peace of mind.