The only problem here in Maine, is we have to travel so far now to get to the mills that are running. The trucks now run Interstate 95, the same as other trucks. So now, instead of hauling a lighter load, you haul a little more. It’s not going to be harder on the trucks, because most of these trucks are ordered for
heavy haul, more than a typical over the road truck. So, I think it’s all right to add more trucks on the road to do the same work.
The biggest issue in Maine was to get the semi trucks off the secondary roads, especially the residential and school areas.
Are these monstrous loads safe to haul on the highways? Maybe would should ask the 80 year old lady that got run over in Bangor Maine a few years ago! Of course, she cannot answer. However, I do agree that trucking rates should go up for all drivers in Canada and the U.S. But, in reality, most trucking companies and truck drivers in Maine, have no problem running heavy. Most all drivers that I hear on the C.B. radio, prefer to be on the interstate.
Of course, we could go back to hauling 80,000 lb. loads. But, we would have a greater number of trucks on the road to do the same amount of work and more fuel to burn in this country, it seems to me, that would increase the fuel prices due to supply and demand. We don’t seem to have much of a problem with heavy weight trucks as of yet, but maybe in the future, that will change.
In my opinion, the place for trucks is on the interstate. In Maine, the state has been doing an extensive bridge replacement and more work on the roads, over the last couple of years.
Personally, I have hauled both 80,000 And 100,000 lb. loads. I think if the driver is professional and smart, not stupid, on the road, there’s no problem with heavy loads. However, I do notice some difference in stopping time, but the worst issue is on slippery roads. Again, truckers must use their heads.
To eliminate many of the problems on the interstates, the speed limit should be lowered to 55 mph ( or the Canadian equiv.). In my opinion, the whole thing is a catch 22… there are pros and cons for both sides of the issue, but one thing for sure is the owner operators do not get paid enough money for the work and the heavier loads.
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