Tennessee Trucking News Q2 Summer 2020 ~ featuring Jeff Reed, Skyline Transportation + TTA's 90th Convention

800.228.8602 Knowledge is Power

gwccnet.com Not All Trucking Companies Are Alike

Trucking is all we do. When you choose Great West Casualty Company to insure
your trucking business, you are getting over 60 years of experience serving the
trucking industry.

Our agents work with you. We selectively choose agents with a keen focus on
the trucking industry. Our agents are knowledgeable, dependable, and responsive.
They understand your needs and work with you to match the right coverage and
level of service for your trucking operation.

Do one thing, and do it right. Our agents can guide you through the process
and customize a plan to provide you the broadest protection possible. You can be
confident knowing that our service begins, not ends, with the issuance of your policy.

Great West Casualty Company – No matter where the road takes you, you will
discover that at Great West, The Difference is Service®.

With expanded service across
Tennessee, your fleet is in
good hands.

From Memphis to Kingsport, Snider Fleet Solutions has 800-528-2840
got you covered for tire and mechanical service—including
tire management programs. From our 5 locations, we also
provide emergency roadside service 24/7.

Commercial Tires | Mechanical Services | Industrial and OTR Tires

SniderFleet.com

TRUCK SALES | PARTS | SERVICE | BODY SHOP
LEASING & RENTAL | FINANCE | CARRIER

OV E R 1 2 0 LO C AT I ON S I N 1 9 S TAT E S

Chattanooga Memphis
MHC Kenworth MHC Kenworth
(866) 805-6403
MHC Ford
Jackson (866) 292-8558
MHC Kenworth
(866) 841-7961 Murfreesboro
MHC Kenworth
Kingsport (844) 488-0091
MHC Kenworth
(866) 327-5750 Nashville
MHC Kenworth
Knoxville (866) 450-3101
MHC Kenworth
(866) 764-0367

mhc.com

TABLE OF CONTENTSTennessee Trucking News OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE TENNESSEE TRUCKING ASSOCIATION
Q2 SUMMER/FALL 2020

COVER STORY P 22

Maintaining Sanity, Sort
of, in an Insane World

Jeff Reed, Skyline Transportation CEO
and newly elected TTA Chairman

BY STEVE BRAWNER

FEATURES DEPARTMENTS IMAGES OF JEFF REED ON THE COVER AND
THIS PAGE BY LAWRENCE KUZNIEWSKI.
11 Young Professionals 7 Chairman’s Message
Council
BY JEFF REED
YPC represents TTA at
Giveback Day, a day of service 9 From the President

BY YPC MEMBERS BY DAVE HUNERYAGER

13 Moving Forward from 42 Calendar of Events
Crisis to Recovery
42 New TTA Members
BY CHRIS SPEAR 42 Advertiser Resource Index

17 ATRI’s Nuclear
Verdicts Report

BY STEVE BRAWNER

17 We’re Baaack!

TTA members gather for
networking opportunities
around the state

BY ASHLEE TAYLOR

31 Tennessee Efforts to
End FET

BY STEVE BRAWNER

35 90th Convention
Coverage/Wrap Up

TTA hosts its 90th Annual
Convention, in person, and it
was a great success!

BY TTA STAFF

41 TTA’s Road Team

BY CATHERINE STUART

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 5

When Neely B. Coble and his
son opened the doors of Neely
Coble Company in 1951,

there were few truck dealerships to model the
business after. However, with great foresight, they
knew they could offer the Tennessee trucking
industry a valued service.

Neely Coble Company was built on the premise
that “the customer comes first!” After adding over
60 years of truck experience and the progressive
ideas of today’s technology, there are few dealer-
ships that can offer your business more support!

One man’s dream has become a full service
Freightliner, Isuzu & Sprinter dealership offering
parts, service and an excellent inventory of new & used trucks. Neely Coble Company also provides a highly expe-
rienced sales force and state-of-the-art body shop. We may have grown substantially since 1951, but our objective is
still the same…

Quality you can depend on,
from a name you can trust!

Nashville, TN - (615)244-8900 - (800)367-7712
Madison, AL - (256)350-1630 - (800)433-6351
Bowling Green, KY - (270) 392-3345 - (833) 220-4644

www.neelycoble.com

truckingTENNESSEE Chairman’s Message
NEWS
Greetings TTA members ~ I hope everyone is well.
Official Magazine of the Tennessee Trucking Association As this is my first contribution to Tennessee Trucking News, I
Tennessee Trucking News is owned by the Tennessee Trucking thought it would make sense to re-visit some of what I shared
Association and is published quarterly by Matthews Publishing recently at TTA’s Annual Convention.
I once again want to express a deep gratitude to our outgoing
Group. For additional copies, to order reprints of individual Chairman, Connie Vaughan. Her leadership the last two years has been outstanding during the
articles or to become a subscriber to Tennessee Trucking News, “normal” times, and no doubt it was magnified during 2020.
I’ve had the distinct privilege to serve on the executive committee for more than five years and
contact Carol Foster at [email protected] I can assure you that our leadership team is comprised of some of the best in the business. Not
only is our leadership strong, our membership is even stronger and I want to thank each of you
Publisher Jennifer Matthews-Drake for staying engaged and supporting our association.
As I commented in Destin, I listen to a lot of talk radio and as you can imagine it seems every
[email protected] topic of discussion is somehow intertwined with the pandemic as it infiltrates our entire society.
Some impacts are positive, many are negative, but no doubt nothing is immune: the economy,
Executive Editor Dave Huneryager schools and worship, our families and social lives, our beloved sports, and certainly our politics
are impacted by this health crisis.
[email protected] One radio host I listened to recently had a show with the theme “Tough times don’t last…
tough people do.”
Creative Director Fran Sherman As I listened, it occurred to me that there’s no other industry where this is truer than in ours.
[email protected] We truckers definitely get our fair share of tough times and we absolutely have our fair share of
tough people. Just take a moment to think about some of the past and current leaders in our
Graphic Designer Barbara Negron industry. They all assert varying traits, styles, and personalities, but one thing is for sure; they’re
all tough people. Because that’s what’s required to be a trucker.
Ad Production Doug Benjamin When things get tough, the trucks keep running. When things get tough, it’s critical that the
supplies, materials, medicine, fuel, food, and products this nation needs are delivered on-time to
Photographers Clay Cook where they’re needed.
Chris Fain The TTA is a tough, strong association and that doesn’t happen by accident. My predecessors
Contributing Writers Al Ferreira have emphasized the importance of building the PAC fund, increasing membership and
Daniel Grey improving our communication and outreach. All of these are at the core of what makes a great
Larry Kuzniewski association and I believe it’s our responsibility to continue this momentum.
Caleb Shane Lollar The iconic Tennessee football coach General Robert Neyland had seven game “maxims” for
John David Pittman his team to live by in order to achieve success. One of those maxims is applicable not just to
football, but to life and business. It states, “If at first the game – or the breaks – go against you,
Steve Brawner don’t let up… put on more steam.” The strong fundamentals of TTA are in place and now more
Kevin Jones than ever it is time to “put on more steam.”
Renee Miller We’ve been through a tough time and even though we know tough times don’t last, we know
there’s more on the horizon. It’s comforting to know that this association is comprised of a bunch
David Monteith of tough individuals, carriers, and allied partners. I am honored to be a part of TTA’s leadership
Derek Rayment team and I am deeply humbled to serve as your chairman for the next two years.
Jennifer Barnett Reed Thank you for this privilege, and I look forward to what lies on the road ahead.

Jack Roberts Jeff Reed, CEO, Skyline Transportation
John Schulz and TTA Chairman
Lacey Thacker [email protected]
Todd Traub

www.TNTrucking.org
Tennessee Trucking Association Staff

President & CEO
Dave Huneryager
[email protected]

Vice President of Safety & Member Services
Donna England

[email protected]

Foundation Coordinator
Catherine Stuart

[email protected]

Administrative Coordinator
Carol Foster

[email protected]

Communications Coordinator
Ashlee Taylor

[email protected]

An affiliate of the American Trucking Associations

Tennessee Trucking Association (TTA) has served as the voice for Tennessee’s
trucking industry since 1930.TTA is a trade association dedicated to the furtherance
of the trucking industry’s goals and interests in Tennessee and the United States.
Our membership is a diverse group comprised of motor carriers, both public and
private, and companies providing products and services to the industry.TTA serves
these companies as a governmental affairs representative before legislative,
regulatory and executive branches of government on issues that affect the trucking
industry.The organization also provides public relations services, operation services
and serves as a forum for industry meetings and membership relations.

For more information, contact TTA at:
Tennessee Trucking Association

4531 Trousdale Drive, Nashville, TN 37204
Telephone 615-777-2882
Facsimile 615-777-2024
www.TNTrucking.org

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 7

TAG LOCATIONS

ARKANASRAKSANSAS

5712 Co5m71m2 CeormcemSerqceuaSrqeuare

TAG TRUCK CENTER AND LONESTAR (J8o0n0e)s2b6o(J84or0on-00e,)s1A2b4R6o84ro-0,71A24R480712401
TRUCK GROUP HAVE MERGED! MISSISSIPPI
MISSIS2S4I4P8PMIcCullough
Now 24 locations in 8 different states to serve you 2B4e4ld8eMn,cB(8MCe0lSd0ue)lln8o3,4u8M4g-8S3h2236682826 ARKANSAS

(800) 84M4IS-3S2O6U2RI 5712 Commerce S

3792 Highway 67 NJoortnhesboro, AR 72

MISSOUPoRpIlar Bluff, MO 63(89001) 264-0148
We have 11 locations for Sales, Parts & Service3792 Hi(g5h73wW)a7ye856h071a9Nv3oert1hM1 IlSoScISaStIPioPIns
(P5o7p3la) r7B8S3(550liuk77e30ffLs)1,ty4o9nM7nu31,OaM7l 1O06036938001(B2184e04ld08e) Mn8,4cM4C-Su3l2lo36u82g8h2
We have 11 locations for Sales, Parts & Service

We have 11 loc3Sa0ikt7eioLsntyonsnJ1ua4,afc7Mokl8s5rOoSnSt,a6Mat3eOl8eH0is6g13h,7wP5aM5ayISr17tS7sOU&RIServ
(573) 47(51737)130309 1890 3792 Highway 67
Poplar Bluff, MO
We have 11 locations for Sales, Par1ts47&85SSF2et8aar8rtm0veiiHnHcgwteiyogn6h,7wMSaOoyu6t1h3(76574703) 785 0193
Jackson(5,7M3)O747630179505 307 Lynual
TENNESS(E5E73) 339 1890 Sikeston, MO 638
KENTUCKY TENNESSEE (573) 471 7100 TE
KENTUCKY

215 Campbell Drive 112 E. L. Morgan Drive 4(M84e05m00)pA2hm6is4e,-(2FrT05i8ca3N7a38rn3m603)W8iHn17a1g4wyC2(82t71ayo75l0nv06e)C,17r9aMt90mCS06Oip-ot0ybu,3e6t4Klhl35YD6r44iv20e1J(05a427c793k8)s5o3Sn3t,9aMt1eO8H90i6g1(J3h8a17w0
Calvert City, KY 42029 Jackson, TN 38305
(270) 906-0345 (800) 423-2599

KENTUCKY TENNESSEE KTENETNUNCEKYSSEE TENNESSEE 2880 Hwy 67TSEoNuNt
215 Campbell Drive 112 E. L. Morgan Drive
Calvert City, KY 42029 JacksKoEnN, TTUNCK3Y8305 215 Campbell Drive 112 E. L. TMNorg3a8n30D5r(Fi5va7er3m)in7g4t7on0,1M94M04Oe5m06
(270) 906-0345 Jackson, (800)
C4al4ve5r0t CAitmy, eKYric4a2n02W9 ay (T8E0N0)N4E2S3S-2E5E99
(2M7T0Ee)Nm9N0p6Eh-S0is3S4,E5TEN 38118
(181020E).2L6. 4M-o0rg3a3n6Drive
www.TAGTruckCenter.com www.T(800)241253C-2am59pb9ell Drive
4450 American Way
Memphis, TN 38118
Calvert City, KY 42029 Jackson, TN 38305 (800) 264-0336
(270) 906-0345 (800) 423-2599

www.TAGTruckCente

www.TAGTruckCwewnwt.TeArG.cTorumckCenter.com

From The President

Tennessee Trucking Association As a completely different Tennessee Trucking Association Annual
Executive Committee Convention concluded on September 22nd, saying thank you to
everyone involved would be an understatement! Never in the 16 years
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD I have had the privilege to lead your association, has there been a
convention like it.
JEFF REED
Skyline Transportation From the date the Executive Committee decided to go forward with our in-person event in
late June, to the Opening Reception on Sunday the 20th, was barely ten weeks. What the heads of
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE committees and the membership accomplished in that short time, was simply amazing!

President & CEO Immediate Past Chairman & Annually, our convention sponsors are always very generous. This year with travel restrictions
DAVE HUNERYAGER Southeast Tennessee limiting their actual attendance, member companies still sponsored our event, even though they
Tennessee Trucking Vice Chairman could not attend. Thank you to all those companies who provided different levels of sponsorship
CONNIE VAUGHAN and for your continued support of the Association’s work towards improving our industry.
Association McKee Foods
Foundation at Large General Counsel Thank you to all the member attendees and your adherence to guidelines in place at the
C. DALE ALLEN Hilton and in Florida. For diligently wearing your masks, your bracelets, washing your hands
SCOTT GEORGE Adams and Reese LLP and using endless containers of hand sanitizer! Thank you to our new member attendees, and
TCW, Inc. Secretary first-time attendees, we hope you learned some things and enjoyed the event enough to come
JIM MOSBY back next year.
TruckPAC Co-Chairman FirstBank
DAVE MANNING Treasurer Thank you to our newest Road Team Captains: Rick Bennett from FedEx Freight; Steve Bowar
TCW, Inc. SCOTT SCHUMPERT from Titan Transfer; Jeff Coffey from Old Dominion Freight Lines; Kevin Davis from Ozark
Motor Lines; Josh Johnson from Titan Transfer; Matt Neary, McKee Foods Transportation,
TruckPAC Co-Chairman Carr, Riggs & Ingram CPSs LLC and John Tetreault from Averitt Express. Thank you for the example you set and the
TERRY MINOR confirmation of why we are so proud of the work you do.

Cumberland International Thank you to all of the Tennessee Trucking Foundation Auction donors and to all of you who
Trucks, Inc. so generously bid on those items. The online bidding app we put in place for the first time was
a huge success, making it easy to stay social distanced and bid, as well as making the checkout
TTF President Middle Tennesse process the simplest it has ever been. Your support of our effort to educate motorists, young and
TOMMY HODGES Vice Chairman old, about how to safely share the road with commercial vehicles is very much appreciated.
Titan Transfer, Inc. MIKE MCFARLIN
Allied Vice Chairman Thank you to Auction Chairman Greg Shipman and the members of his Auction Committee;
M & W Transportation Co., Inc. Craig Kendall, Perry Wilson, Randy Hooper, Sara Heffington, John Seeman, Maggie Roney,
TROY DICKENS West Tennesse Catherine Stuart, Donna England and Ashlee Taylor for putting together a classy event.
Rush Truck Vice Chairman
To our outgoing Chairman Connie Vaughan, thank you for your two years at the helm, and
Center, Nashville JASON HIGGINBOTHAM everything you have done to represent our state, our association and our industry. To Jeff Reed,
Ozark Motor Lines, Inc. thank you for your heartfelt and uplifting introductory remarks, and, we look forward to your
term as our next Chairman!
Non-Domiciled Vice Chairman
& ATA State Vice President On behalf of our Vice President of Safety and Member Services Donna England, our
NICK D’ANDREA Administration Coordinator Carol Foster, our Foundation Coordinator Catherine Stuart, our
UPS Communications Coordinator Ashlee Taylor and me, thank you for all that you do in support
of our Annual Convention and the Tennessee Trucking Association throughout the year, we
BOARD OF DIRECTORS appreciate each one of you!

DIRECTORS AT LARGE CORY LILE Thanks again,
Occusure Workers’ Compensation
BRAD ALLEN Dave Huneryager
Venture Express EDDIE WAYLAND President, Tennessee Trucking Association
King & Ballow [email protected]
BETH FRANKLIN
Multi-Task Solutions BILL TIRRILL
Fleetco, Inc.
STEVE FRANKLIN
Multi-Task Solutions SOUTHEAST TENNESSEE

JERRY HAMPTON MAX FULLER
Pinnacle Bank U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc.

JOE SHARP LISA PATE
Western Express U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc.

SHEILA SHOUN TOMMY THAXTON
Shoun Trucking Co. Best One Tire & Service

ROB RHEA DAREL DYER
FedEx Freight Premier Truck Group of Chattanooga

WAYNE WEAVER JEFF TANNER
Rapid Ways Leasing Kenco Management Services

BOB WEST WEST TENNESSEE
R.E. West, Inc.
MARK GEORGE
BILLY WHITE Intermodal Cartage Co., Inc.
Clarke Power Services
JOHN ROSS
EAST TENNESSEE Milan Supply Chain Solutions

RUBY MCBRIDE TIM GATLIN
Colonial Freight Systems Empire Express, Inc.

BILL REED, III CATHY PHILLIPS COATS
Skyline Logistics, Inc. H.B. Phillips, Inc.

JEFF ALLEN JEFF REEVES
Great West Casualty Company Reeves Brothers Trucking, Inc.

CRAIG KENDALL JEFF EARLE
The Peterbilt Store,-Knoxville Thompson Power Corp.

MIDDLE TENNESSEE TOMMY EARL
TAG Truck Center
WILLIAM KEITH
FirstExpress, Inc. DICK SWEEBE
Summit Truck Group, Memphis
PAT MARSH
Big G Express, Inc. NON-DOMICILED REGIONAL

BRAD RAHRER MIKE KELLEY
Portland Express, inc. YRC Worldwide, Inc.

ALLIE SHARP SCHWALB HAL DOWLAND
Sharp Transport, Inc. HELP, Inc., Provider of PrePass

JOHN WALTON GREG SHIPMAN
Averitt Express, Inc. Vertical Alliance Group

BILL BOB WEST SAM FAUCETTE
R.E. West, Inc. Old Dominion, Inc.

JIM BRIGGS
Advanced Ergonomics, Inc.

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 9

MORE

THAN

JUST

TIRES

STMTIRES.COM • 24/7 CALL CENTER: 877-STM-TIRE

North America's #1 Tire Dealer with 135 locations
across 15 states. From America's quality brands to
comprehensive maintenance programs and 24/7 roadside
assistance, we deliver the very best in tires and services.

YPC GIVEBACK DAY
BY YPC MEMBERS

The Young Professional Council participates in each year are my favorite been different, but it did not stop our YPC
participated in its 2nd Annual Give Back events,” Joe Fischer of EATON Corporation from volunteering and representing the
Day at the Nashville Rescue Mission said. “We are very fortunate and serving Tennessee Trucking Association in the best
on Saturday, Aug. 8. Nashville Rescue breakfast at 5:30 in the morning to help the way possible.”
Mission is a Christ-centered community Nashville community is the least I could do,
dedicated to provide hope for today, hope to do my part.” “I’m always excited when the YPC can get
for tomorrow and hope for eternity to together,” said Patrick Mendenhall, Summit
the hungry, homeless and hurting. Since Edward Coble, Neely Coble Company Truck Group and YPC chairman. “We have
1954, Nashville Rescue Mission, located and vice-chair of YPC, organized the event a great group of leaders who are always
downtown Nashville, continues to seek for the second straight year. “This is a staple looking for ways to contribute.”
opportunities to service the homeless event that we hope to continue to do for
men, women and children in the many years.” The YPC took the maximum The Young Professional Council will
Nashville community. number of volunteers that the Nashville continue to give back as it helps organize
Rescue Mission would allow with its latest Haulin’ for the Holidays this holiday season
“The Give Back Days that YPC COVID-19 guidelines. “This year has with Rush Truck Centers’ Troy Dickens and
other TTA members. TTN

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 11

12 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020

Moving Forward from
Crisis to Recovery

American Trucking Associations’ advocacy plans for 2020

BY CHRIS SPEAR
GUEST WRITER

Since it first entered the United States, Amen. Truckers are the difference than pointing to obstacles, they work to
the coronavirus has upended life across between store shelves getting restocked clear the way forward.
America. But through all the turmoil and and remaining empty. They’re why doctors
uncertainty, truckers have forged ahead. and nurses have PPE to protect themselves This has been on full display throughout
While everything around us turned upside while treating the sick. They’re how test this crisis, as ATA fleets and their millions
down, American trucking has been one kits get to the high-impact areas so local of drivers have engaged decision makers
absolute and steady constant.  officials can mitigate the virus’ spread. at all levels of government to receive
immediate regulatory relief and remove
We hear the term ‘essential’ more As crucial as they’ve been in responding barriers erected by ill-conceived policies
frequently as of late, as truckers receive to the outbreak and curbing its impact, that impede our ability to deliver for our
high praise and widespread recognition for truckers will remain equally pivotal now as customers and the American people.
their heroism during this crisis. Americans we turn toward recovery. Trucks have kept
are opening their eyes to the gravity of rolling while the rest of the country locked That same spirit, grit and fortitude
what essential really means. The President down, and they’ll remain at the forefront will propel our country forward, safely
of the United States perhaps said it best as our economy powers back up. and swiftly, as we bridge from crisis to
when he recently proclaimed from the recovery. It’s why the President has called
south lawn of the White House: “Thank Truckers by nature are problem solvers. on us to lead the way. Truckers hold the
God for Truckers.” They don’t complain about problems— keys to restarting America’s economic
they propose concrete solutions. Rather
CONTINUED 

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 13

engine, and on the backs of trucks is how Now we’re engaged in a different kind heavy-duty trucks, Congress would put
we’ll get from here to there. of conflict: the battle against COVID-19 the trucking industry in purchasing mode
and the invisible coronavirus. And by again. A recent ATA survey shows 60
But it’s up to policymakers in both suspending this antiquated tax, Congress percent of fleets would be either somewhat
Congress and the federal agencies to can deliver a powerful boost to our likely or very likely to buy additional
provide a stable foundation of support. recovering economy as it struggles trucks and trailers beyond currently
The task before us is paramount, and the to climb out of this health-turned- scheduled purchases, supporting countless
stakes could not be higher. The livelihoods economic crisis. jobs at truck manufacturing plants
of tens of millions of Americans hang in and dealerships. 
the balance. The center of gravity of our More than 1.3 million jobs across the
entire economy rests on this bridge and its country are tied just to the manufacturing 2. Keep liquidity flowing into
underlying supports. and sales of Class 8 trucks and trailers,
and a total of 7.9 million Americans the market.
Here are three pillars we urge work in a wide variety of trucking related Truckers live by the value of hard work.
federal officials in Congress and the jobs. As this vital workforce serves on
administration to consider: the frontlines of the COVID crisis, it They don’t seek handouts. “Bailouts” to our
faces strong headwinds: The pandemic industry do little to ensure the survival of
1. Suspend the FET. is expected to depress new truck sales by motor carriers if there are no customers
In 1917, Congress imposed a federal excise more than 50 percent this year, putting left for us to serve.
these key manufacturing jobs in jeopardy
tax on heavy trucks to help fund America’s and threatening to exacerbate the growing That’s why ATA has focused our
military machine as we entered World War unemployment crisis. advocacy efforts on ensuring there’s ample
I. More than a century later, the Great War liquidity throughout the market so that
is long over, but that tax still remains on the But by temporarily lifting the FET on small and medium sized businesses –
books—currently adding some $22,000 to our customers – can weather this storm
the price of a new tractor-trailer. and come through the other side still

YOUR DISTRIBUTOR FOR 8015 Piedmont Triad Parkway
ENGINES, TRANSMISSIONS, Greensboro, NC 27409
(336) 292-9240
PARTS, SERVICE 1815 Starita Road
AND TOTAL TRUCK REPAIR Charlotte, NC 28206
(704) 596-8000
engines 103 Austin Bradley Lane
New Bern, NC 28562
Please visit our website for details on additional branch locations in other states. (252) 638-3161
6725 Netherlands Drive
WWW.CLARKEPOWERSERVICES.COM Wilmington, NC 28405
(910) 392-7220
14 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020 1429 Ault Road
Knoxville, TN 37914
(865) 689-3722

I-181 & Rock Springs Road
Kingsport, TN 37633
(423) 349-6141
115 Haywood Lane
Antioch, TN 37013
(Nashville)
(615) 262-4141
124 Gateway Drive
Ringgold, GA 30736
(Chattanooga)
(706) 965-7000
3070 Sandbrook Road
Memphis TN 38116
(800) 897-8901

standing. It’s critical that Congress keep truckers, farmers, business and labor infrastructure investment can provide
funds flowing for the Paycheck Protection immediate and long-term stimulus without
Program and other small business loan communities stand together in calling in adding a dime to the federal deficit.
programs, which millions of employers are
relying on to keep their businesses afloat calling on Congress and the President to The debt tonnage we’re dropping at the
and employees paid.  feet of our children and grandchildren’s is
fund a comprehensive infrastructure bill unconscionable, and we risk this becoming
3. Invest in infrastructure. COVID-19’s lasting impact for decades
Underfunded roads and bridges are this year. to come. We can deny it that legacy, and
No policy is more primed to reenergize jumpstart our economy, by starting
choking the nation’s supply lines, making with infrastructure.
it costlier and more time consuming to get the economy than this. Infrastructure
goods to market. They’re costing motorists directly touches every industry, business The transition from crisis to recovery
$1,600 annually in wasted gas, lost wages and individual American. It the near term, will not happen overnight. It’ll happen in
and vehicle damage. The typical motorist it would create hundreds of thousands stages, staggered by region and driven by
wastes 42 hours of their lives every year of good-paying jobs for the countless data. But just as we’ve been through every
sitting in traffic, and the trucking industry workers who have been displaced by the phase of this national crisis, ATA and our
loses 1.2 billion hours of productivity COVID-19 crisis. And it would provide members are now in position to shape
to congestion. a foundation for long-term economic this outcome.
growth, revitalizing are arteries of
Absent urgent action, this will be our commerce for the 21st century.  As Congress considers its next move,
next big crisis – one that’s been decades they’d be wise to follow trucking’s lead. TTN
in the making – because of lapsing With gas prices now at extreme lows,
investments, degrading roads and bridges Chris Spear is President and CEO of the
and exploding national debt. America’s Congress is presented with a historic
American Trucking Associations. Visit his
opportunity to pass a major economic
organization at www.truckline.org.
recovery package that is fully paid

for. Whereas the previous phases of

COVID-19 relief legislation has sent our

national debt soaring to dangerous levels,

DALE ALLEN TONY SWAFFORD ROCKY KING
Partner Partner Partner
Nashville Nashville Nashville

Global Trade, Transportation and Logistics

HOLLY McDANIEL ROB BREUNIG CLAYTON BYRD
Government Affairs Partner Special Counsel
Advisor (non-lawyer) Nashville Nashville
Nashville

Our Adams and Reese Team advises clients on issues relating to the CANNON ALLEN BEN FOX JEFF BROOKS
entire supply chain and all modes of transportation: highway, water, air, Partner Partner Partner
rail, and pipeline. We understand the particular demands and complexities Memphis Memphis Washington, DC
of the industry, and therefore, maintain real-time knowledge of statutory,
regulatory, and legal decisions that impact your business. Through our www.adamsandreese.com
governmental relations team and our membership and leadership in
several transportation industry organizations, we stay up-to-date on ALABAMA | FLORIDA | GEORGIA | LOUISIANA | MISSISSIPPI
relevant legal developments on a regional, national and international level. SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | WASHINGTON, DC

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 15

Join us to experience industry-leading educational
programs, policy discussions, dynamic keynote
speakers, general sessions, 5k fun run/walk, and
virtual exhibits you can’t get anywhere else. Hot topics
on the agenda include legal reform efforts, polling results
on issues, image and politics with special guest speaker
Neil Newhouse, CARB regulations, ATRI’s 2020 top 10
big reveal, and diversity in the workplace to name a few.
MCE Virtual is where trucking leaders come together to
use their voice and advance trucking’s concerns through
participation and education, exchange ideas with
colleagues and celebrate accomplishments.

REGISTRATION Premier sponsor
NOW OPEN! of MCE 2020

mce.trucking.org

#ATAmce20

Verdicts Going Nuclear, So What
Should Carriers Do?

ATRI’s newest analysis sheds light on trucking’s
stratospheric-level legal verdict awards

BY STEVE BRAWNER
CONTRIBUTING WRITER

How can a motor carrier defend itself truck driver killed two passenger vehicle captured all the public cases of $1 million
against a “nuclear verdict”? First, it should occupants, one of whom was a prominent or more that had published information.
prevent the crash from happening in the businessman with high earning potential. The defense won the case 107 times, or 23.7
first place. If a crash occurs, the carrier When a drive shaft broke off a commercial percent of the time.
should ask itself tough questions about its truck and killed a passenger car driver
own case, decide whether to settle or fight, in 2012, a court initially awarded $281.6 The analysis found awards of $1 million
and then employ the right defense strategies. million, which eventually was reduced or more are becoming more commonplace
to $105.2 million and then settled for – from only four identified in 2006 to 265
Those were some of the findings by an undisclosed amount. After a crash in from 2012-19. The average sizes of the
the American Transportation Research Alabama in 2016 where the truck driver awards increased from $2.3 million in
Institute in its June report, “Understanding fell asleep at the wheel and killed five people, 2010 to $22.3 million in 2018, a jump of
the Impact of Nuclear Verdicts on the a Georgia court awarded $280 million for 967 percent. By far the largest increase, 483
Trucking Industry.” the deaths of a grandmother and percent, occurred from 2017 to 2018. That
two grandchildren. year, there were fewer cases with verdicts
The report defines a nuclear verdict as a over $1 million – more than 30 compared
“large verdict, oftentimes in excess of $10 ATRI analyzed 451 cases from 2005 to to more than 70 in 2013, but the size of the
million.” In recent years, some of these 2019 for which it could obtain enough largest verdicts increased. The study’s lead
awards have reached stratospheric levels. published data to run the regressions. It
Jurors awarded $40 million in 2011 after a CONTINUED 

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 17

author and ATRI’s senior vice president, time in favor of the plaintiff. In the second magnifying glass on them.”
Dan Murray, said numbers from early case, only one of the 12 cases was decided in Participants said motor carriers helped
2019 that weren’t included in the report favor of the defense, and the plaintiff could
suggest the sudden rise in 2018 wasn’t a not prove the phone was in use at the time themselves with juries when they could
one-year outlier. The growth in the verdicts of the crash. The report also said the defense show they had taken steps to prevent
far outpaced inflation, which increased must not tamper with evidence, which crashes that went beyond federal motor
1.7 percent a year from 2010 to 2018, and generates sympathy for the plaintiff. carrier safety regulations. Those regulations
health care costs, which increased 2.9 should be considered minimum standards
percent annually. “If the credibility of the defendant is that should be exceeded; mere compliance
destroyed through documented proof that is not enough. For carriers, the more crash
Rocky King, a trucking industry evidence was tampered with, ‘all hope is prevention activities they can demonstrate,
defense attorney with Adams and Reese lost,’” the report said. the better. King said motor carriers that can
in Nashville, said Tennessee has had few invest in safety technologies should do so.
large verdicts, largely because of its tort Along with analyzing the verdicts, ATRI
reform law passed in 2012 that limits interviewed defense and plaintiff ’s attorneys King said he’s never found a case where
noneconomic damages. Two verdicts in and insurance industry personnel, mostly a motor carrier has failed to make safety a
2019 reached seven figures. In both cases, between June and December 2019. priority. All firms have “solid to impeccable”
the truck driver failed to yield and was fully training and safety programs. On the
at fault. A Shelby County case resulted in Several made the statement that “the only road, carriers must continue to make safety
a verdict of $2.5 million that was reduced way to prevent nuclear verdicts is to prevent a priority – even if it means falling
to $1.5 million to comply with the law. A the crash from happening in the first place.” behind schedule.
case in eastern Tennessee resulted in a $2.1
million verdict that was later settled for an If a crash occurs, carriers who find “Trucking’s a business, but it’s a business
undisclosed amount. themselves in a lawsuit should hire an for which you don’t get any kind of break
experienced attorney who is familiar with on trying to cut the rules while driving,” he
King noted that the two cases came the industry and understands regulations said. “If you’re running behind, don’t speed.
from very different jury pools but resulted and legal precedents. “Being a dabbler or If you’re running out of time on your clock,
in similar verdicts. In both cases, jurors a generalist won’t yield much success,” the you’re running out of time on your clock.”
sympathized with the plaintiff ’s pain report said.
and suffering. If there was any negligence on the
The report warns carriers not to carrier’s part, they should try to settle in
The likelihood of an unfavorable verdict underestimate the plaintiff ’s case. Carriers mediation, the report said. Carriers should
depended on the state where the case should perform a thorough risk assessment. settle early because costs rise as the trial
was tried. In Tennessee, 80 percent of the Tough questions should be asked. Could the nears, and the size of the verdict tends to
verdicts favored the defense. On the other carrier have done anything to prevent the increase as the time between it and the
hand, 100 percent of the cases were decided accident? Did the carrier have an adequate crash increases. They also should bring
in favor of the plaintiff in Connecticut and training curriculum and commit enough a reasonable offer to the table to avoid
also in New York, Georgia, North Carolina, resources to safety? Many said motor angering plaintiff ’s attorneys who might
Virginia, Oregon, Wyoming, Nebraska carriers often failed to perform background take the case to trial.
and Kansas. and drug tests. Juries were much more likely
to fault drivers who have a history of drug If a case goes to trial, a carrier should
ATRI found five issues brought against and alcohol abuse even when it wasn’t clear invest in tools that will increase its chance
the defendant in court always resulted in that history was related to the crash. of winning or at least minimize the damage,
a verdict in favor of the plaintiff: hours such as expert witnesses. If possible, carriers
of service or logbook violations, a less King said trucking companies must be should try to get the case tried in federal
than clean driving history, driving under honest with themselves as they consider court where one judge, rather than several,
the influence of controlled substances, a how to defend themselves after an accident. will see the case through to completion.
driver fleeing the scene, and health issues. Federal courts cover larger areas, reducing
Hours of service/logbook issues resulted in “We can’t go back and stop the accident the chance for bias caused by personal
plaintiff ’s verdicts in 26 cases. from occurring,” he said. “It has occurred, relationships in a more local setting.
so let’s figure out how we’re going to deal
Other issues also resulted in a high with this going forward, and that means Many interviewees said plaintiff ’s
likelihood of a plaintiff ’s verdict, including let’s look at all the warts on our case. attorneys are doing a better job than
sleep/fatigue and the driver talking on the Because the warts on our case today are defense attorneys in truck crash cases,
phone, both decided 91.7 percent of the going to be there a year later when we’re while none said defense attorneys are
talking about trying this case, and so better. Defense attorneys often work under
let’s look at them right now. Let’s put a

18 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020

a “cost minimization” model, while the describe how essential the trucking attorneys. One is to seek a cut-and-dried
plaintiff ’s attorneys are operating under a industry is, as shown during the COVID-19 case in search of a nuclear verdict. The other
“high risk, high reward” model. Plaintiff ’s pandemic, how the carrier has been a good model profits from a large volume of cases
attorneys generously share strategies with community steward, and how the driver is a that often involve motor carriers’ minimum
each other, while defense attorneys work family man with a good driving record. insurance requirements – the billboard
in a competitive firm environment and lawyers, in other words.
have trouble obtaining the information The report also described litigation
and resources they need from insurers financing. Financiers are investing in Those lawyers want to see the case
and defendants. King said that’s not been a plaintiff ’s attorneys and receive a percentage completed quickly. King noted that in two
problem in Tennessee. of the award if the plaintiff wins. If the cases with similar fact patterns, one firm
plaintiff loses, the investor gets nothing. presented an identical complaint down to
In court, plaintiff ’s attorneys excel at It’s become an estimated $400 billion the same typographical error.
appealing to jurors’ emotions, respondents worldwide industry with no federal
said. One of their strategies is applying the oversight, and the source of the funding is ATRI’s report focused on the specialty
“reptile theory” – in other words, triggering often hidden. firms. It is now creating a similar assessment
the most primitive, survival-based parts of of cases where the judgments and
jurors’ brains so they see the defendants’ “It’s something like Wall Street investing, settlements were under $1 million.
actions as endangering the community and a lot like a mutual fund, a lot like venture
the jurors themselves. Plaintiff ’s attorneys capitalists, you know, trying to pick winners The report will provide a blueprint for
talk about the family that’s lost a loved one. and losers,” Murray said in an interview. carriers to know when they should fight
Defense attorneys tend to rely too much on “And in fact in four states it’s considered and when they should settle based on the
rational and technical arguments such as gambling, and it literally is controlled by the average costs of different types of injuries and
stopping distances. same laws that oversee gambling.” crashes. If a carrier is being sued for more
than the average, it should consider going
Murray said defense attorneys should Murray said ATRI’s researchers identified to court. If it is being sued for less, “You’re
two business models adopted by plaintiff ’s probably getting a deal,” Murray said. TTN

SAVE ON MEMBER BENEFIT:
PREPASS
F R E E!FIRST MONTH

prepass.com/TN • 866-228-1424
Promo Code: TTA

Offer good for first time PrePass customers
for the weigh station bypass service. Service
contingent upon application approval. Qualified
applicants will receive one month of service at
no up-front cost. At the end of the trial period,
service will automatically renew at regular PrePass
rates. Customers may cancel service at any time.

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 19

We’re Baaack!

TTA returns to hosting events with a bang!

After months of events across Tennessee and the nation being postponed sometimes multiple times or cancelled altogether, we are so
happy to say that we are back together again! You’ve seen coverage of TTA’s 90th Annual Convention held Sept. 20-22 in Destin, Fla. Just
prior to that, TTA hosted a Clay Shoot on Aug, 13 at the Nashville Gun Club. It was a blast! We had 62 members in attendance for this
fun event and the general consensus by all was that it is good to be back!

Traveling Trophy Award Winners- Midd-Tenn Ford Truck Sales, Brian Fasteneau, Marty Moore, Bick Boyte, Bobby Cagle, Donna England, TTA

Donna England, TTA, with Marlene Trantham, Dr. Dennis Ogrodowzcyk, Megan Wyatt, Corporate Medical Services, Marlene Trantham,
Tranco Logistics, awarded Best Female Shooter Tranco Logistics, Grady Phillips, Corporate Medical Services

20 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020

you all drive to get there.” It’s the job of the position. transportation industry is there is no one
the leader to remove roadblocks and let “Some people out there think their size fits all, so we can individualize per
people follow their own path to the goal. positions deserve respect and I try to tell fleet. So, depending on who you are as a
According to Sigmon at Cargo the people who work here, who work fleet, you can find your niche,” he says. It’s
Transporters, Dellinger has put it this under my direction, that your position not about forcing fleets into new ways of
way more than once: “I don’t want to doesn’t earn you the respect, and you doing things, but instead helping fleets
hear about the labor pains, just show me don’t deserve respect just because of the find which new technologies best suit
the baby.” title you have. There will be some people their needs.”
Watching, listening, providing a who are rule followers who will give you Dellinger is hoping to build the
vision or end goal—these are traits of respect because of your title or positions, strength of TCA through greater
leadership on which both Dellinger but people will only respect you if you involvement. In his recent acceptance
and Earnhardt agree. Both men have respect them.” speech for the chairmanship, Dellinger
earned the respect of their peers using As both men describe the future, said, “An effective trade association is
that approach. It’s important to note that they talk about what they’ll do with one that should never been viewed as a
both Earnhardt and Dellinger describe the respect they’ve been given and spectator sport, but rather as something
themselves as having strong opinions. how they’ll continue to respect others. that each and every one of us should be
Both have worked their way up through Earnhardt says he looks forward to intricately involved in and become hard-
the industry and could easily tell others helping fleets maintain their identity wired to that spirit of service within the
how to do things, but they’ve learned as the industry goes through dramatic association.”
that forcing their opinions on others changes in equipment, like using There is no doubt both Dellinger and
isn’t the most effective way to do things. hydrogen fuels or experimenting with Earnhardt will continue to respect the
As a result, they’ve risen to positions of autonomous trucks. opinions of their peers in their new
reJsepffeCcatr,r,bPu&tSDTrealnlsinpogretartisoany,sGirte’sgnBourtnaebtto, GuCt B Logistic“sI, tInhci.n, k the one greatDtohcitnogr DaebnonuistOthgerodowzcleyka,dMeergshanipWryoaltet,sC.orporate Medical

Donna England, TTA Services, Nashville Gun Club Instructor

22 •TARHEEL WHEELS Q1 SPRING 2020 Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 21

22 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020

Maintaining Sanity,
Sort of, in an Insane World

Jeff Reed, Skyline Transportation CEO and
newly-elected TTA Chairman

BY STEVE BRAWNER
CONTRIBUTING WRITER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAWRENCE KUZNIEWSKI

Everyone in the trucking industry knows it’s been Like other trucking companies, Skyline has
a crazy few years of extreme highs and lows. Jeff Reed continued to operate during the COVID-19
knows it better than most as a third-generation owner pandemic. It’s been challenging at times because many
and president of Skyline Transportation. of its customers are in the manufacturing sector and
halted operations in April and May. Those months,
This year has been the craziest of all. Asked how a Skyline’s revenues were down about 25 percent, but by
motor carrier executive maintains sanity amidst it all, June and July demand had increased beyond what it
he had a simple, two-word answer: “You don’t.” had been in March.

No, it’s not sanity that enables trucking executives to The company was helped by having a wide base of
persevere, but something else: An awareness that this customers in a variety of industries. Moreover, Reed
is an industry of ups and downs, and an appreciation said those months offered an opportunity to get leaner
that good times will follow bad ones, and vice versa. by cutting unnecessary costs and procedures.

“You love doing it, and you love the people in it, so it “It was a difficult couple of months, 60 days, and some
makes you stick in there and keep doing it,” he said. “And of those dark days where you go home at night and you
it’s the challenge. That’s the other part: I think naturally don’t sleep well. But it was temporary, and it seems to
people want to face a challenge and conquer it versus just have come back stronger than it was before,” he said.
going in and doing something mundane and easy every
day. You kind of lose your interest in that situation.” Like other executives, Reed must prepare to
navigate an uncertain future. He expects freight
Reed hasn’t lost his interest in running Skyline, a demand to be high in the short-term through the
truckload carrier based in Knoxville with 130 power holidays. Production will stay strong to meet demand
units, 300 trailers and 170 employees. It serves the and replenish inventories. Projecting into 2021,
eastern United States as far west as Houston and however, would be only guesswork, especially with an
Dallas. Skyline focuses on high-service hauls: those election coming in November.
that are hazmat, temperature controlled, and/or time-
sensitive. It often hauls chemicals including cleaning Reed will be leading not only his company in
solvents, industrial ingredients, paints and batteries this environment, but also the Tennessee Trucking
and also hauls automotive products. Association as its new chairman. He took the reins at
the TTA’s 90th Annual Convention, which was Sept.
“We’re not the largest carrier so we can’t compete 20-22 at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort.
on volume, but we try to compete on things that need
value-added service or special service in the truckload CONTINUED 
arena,” he said.

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 23

The TTA elected to meet in person
during the pandemic while taking
appropriate precautions. Events were
modified to spread people out, but the
usual general sessions were occurring.
Reed said the executive committee had
long discussions about the logistics,
reached out to other associations that had
already had their own conventions, and
worked with the hotel.

As time progressed, the association
decided it was a go. After all, trucking is
a risk-management business, not a risk-
avoidance one. It kept operating as an
essential industry during March and April
when almost everything else shut down.

“I guess that (aspect) probably, whether
consciously or unconsciously, played
into the decision saying, ‘Well, no, we
can do this. We operated our truck lines
throughout all of this, so surely we can
get together for two days and conduct our
meeting,’” he said. “I definitely say that

with Nacarato Truck Centers as your business partner,
you’ve got all the support you need.

For 43 years, Nacarato has been serving Nashville and surrounding areas as a Nacarato Truck Centers
full line Volvo truck dealer. We offer comprehensive customer support through
our dedicated parts, service and body shop operations. We stock quality 519 New Paul Road
pre-owned trucks, many backed by Volvo’s exclusive generation2 program, LaVergne, TN 37086
for all applications, giving customers the best selection in the Southeast. 615-280-2800
No one beats Nacarato Truck Centers in any area of truck dealership support. www.nacaratovolvo.com

24 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020

played a big role in it because it’s kind of said. “Friends and mentors, but yeah, we said in board meetings Reed is “a man of
ingrained in us that the trucks’ve got to go. are competitors. There’s no doubt. But the few words” who nevertheless will share his
We have to keep moving no matter what, TTA, they do so much work that isn’t seen opinion in a thoughtful way.
and so I think that’s kind of permeated but is so important and so effective.”
through this, to just, let’s push through it. Vaughan, a government relations
We can make it happen. We have to do it Dave Huneryager, the TTA’s president manager for McKee Foods, said Reed is
different, got to adapt, but it can be done.” and CEO, said he has known Reed for an effective spokesman for the trucking
almost 30 years and sees a lot of his father industry during the TTA’s Calls on
Reed has been involved in the TTA his in him. With Jeff, he said, “this apple did Washington and Nashville.
entire life. His father, Bill Reed Jr., known not fall far from that tree, for sure!”
as “Big Bill,” was TTA’s chairman and was “He brings that perspective to the table
very active in the association and in other “As the East Tennessee Region vice chair, too, that he’s thinking about the driver
industry groups. The entire Reed family Jeff has long been engaged in industry and how this impacts drivers and their
would go to conventions together. affairs and the TTA’s efforts – supporting livelihood. He does very well at presenting
the PAC, the Call on Washington, the Call how this business works,” she said. “He
Now that Reed’s an executive, he on Nashville, involvement in the ATA, brings to the table and can articulate the
appreciates what the TTA accomplishes and, in the past two years, co-leading the whole concept of the trucking industry
for the industry, including its lobbying East Tennessee Big Rigs for Little Kids golf and the supply chain.”
in Nashville and Washington, D.C., event in East Tennessee, just to name a
informational activities regarding rules few,” Huneryager said. Reed’s interest in drivers is real and
changes and best practices, networking personal. He earned his commercial
events like the convention and public Reed’s predecessors say he is well driver’s license at age 21, loves “driving
education efforts like Tennessee’s Road Team. prepared to assume the chairmanship. Past anything that’s a large, big machine,
chair Connie Vaughan said members of whether it’s a truck or a boat or a bus,” and
“Most of the people in the association, the Reed family are “icons in our industry
the first way I describe them is friends,” he and Tennessee Trucking Association.” She CONTINUED 

Protect Your DCROMIVEPARNSY. .
Protect Your

"For more than ten years, Drivers Legal Plan has
been a valuable, reliable and trusted TTA endorsed
partner. They do an outstanding job helping TTA's
most successful members--drivers and carriers
alike--by protecting their MVRs and CSAs. Why
don't you?"

—Dave Huneryager
President & CEO, Tennessee Trucking Association

Drivers Legal Plan delivers bottom line
benefits at no cost to your company.

800-417-3552

www.driverslegalplan.com

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 25



still gets behind the wheel of a rig once like the dickens below. He’s just as steady mowing the yard. That led to working in
or twice a year. As a truckload carrier, his as he goes, and he offers up comments and the maintenance shop and then a part-
company faces challenges recruiting and conversation as needed, and usually his time job in the office in the afternoons
retaining drivers because other sectors input’s spot on.” after school.
can get them home more often. His drivers
are on the road five or six days and then Reed, 46, learned about the trucking “That’s the advantage of growing
home. It tries to create freight lanes and industry from many years of experience, up in a family business,” he said. “The
solicit freight that accommodates where plus maybe it’s in his genes. In 1954, his disadvantage is that you can’t call in sick.
drivers live. grandfather, William H. Reed, and his You’re always there. You’re expected to be
brother Earl bought the company from there. There’s high expectations, I guess
Vaughan’s predecessor as chairman, another individual. The company’s prior is what I’m trying to say, that you’re not
Wayland Thompson, executive vice history is not known. The less-than- handed anything, and you’ve got to get out
president, sales and marketing for truckload carrier owned six trucks with there and prove yourself.”
FirstFleet, Inc., said Reed has been an authority to operate in eastern Tennessee
ally and sounding board of his for years during the industry’s heavily regulated That concept was reinforced when
through the TTA. He described Reed as days. When the industry was deregulated he was 16 and started working in the
a “real voice of reason” and as analytical in the 1980s, Skyline expanded under Big maintenance shop over the summer. Hank
in budget meetings. When interviewing Bill, William’s son, and covered much of Villadsen, director of maintenance, whom
potential allied endorsements, he asks the Southeast. Reed described as “cut from a tough cloth,”
precise questions based on what’s best for sat him down in his office and told him,
the association and the industry as a whole. Reed grew up in that environment. He “Now, I know you’re Bill’s son, but you
learned what made the business work need to understand something. Being the
“He’s really kind of like a duck in the literally from the ground up by loading boss’s son doesn’t mean that you work half
water,” he said. “He just seems so calm all the lawnmower in his dad’s pickup truck as hard. It means you’ve got to work twice
the time, but you know he’s just peddling and spending a couple of days a week
CONTINUED 

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 27

as hard because everybody already thinks moved freight. We drove forklifts. We obvious that competing in the LTL sector
you’re working half as hard.” worked every position you could work, and required scale. Skyline had two choices:
that prepared us for running the company.” grow or sell. Eventually, Big Bill decided to
The sense of family responsibility was sell the company and enter the truckload
ingrained in the company. After William Reed had no intention of working business, where a smaller, family-owned
Reed Sr., otherwise known as “Gramps,” anywhere other than Skyline growing up. carrier more easily could compete. The
retired in the early 1990s, Skyline purchased He majored in accounting at the University company and much of its assets were sold to
another carrier, North Alabama Express. of Tennessee, reasoning he could learn Old Dominion, and then the family spent
There was much to do, so the elder Reed other aspects of the business through a couple of months selling the day cabs Old
traveled to Alabama and drove a truck. experience. He attended during the Peyton Dominion didn’t want until there were zero
Manning years, when the Volunteers were trucks left. Skyline retained about 10 of its
“It doesn’t matter who you are and what a perennial football power, and he was in old employees and moved into the truckload
your last name is, the job’s gotta be done, and Arizona at Sun Devil Stadium to witness the sector. Among those who remained was
I think we saw that with him, and I think that national championship during the 1997-98 Eddie LeSueur, who today is its longest-
Dad saw that from him, and then that just season. At age 21, he earned his commercial tenured employee and is a member of
kind of got passed on down to us,” Reed said. driver’s license and started driving a truck. Tennessee’s Road Team. Just as William
One day, he was hanging out with his and Earl had done 45 years earlier, the new
Reed’s brother, Bill Reed III, the buddies when Big Bill called telling him to version of Skyline started with six trucks.
company’s director of marketing, said get to Chattanooga to drive a set of doubles.
Big Bill had his sons do every job in the He went. He joined the family business full- The Reed brothers would learn from Big
company, including working as clerks time after graduating in 1996. Bill’s example. Jeff Reed described him as
doing filing, invoicing and payroll. They firm, fair and fun, and with an infectious
each rebuilt a Detroit Diesel engine in the By 1999, the company had grown to personality. He expected his employees to get
maintenance shop. Big Bill would delegate 22 terminals in 10 states throughout the the job done, but he was not unreasonable
jobs to his sons and let them learn from southeastern United States and about 600
their mistakes without hovering over them. employees. However, it was becoming CONTINUED 

“We worked at the office,” he said. “We

A Closer Look: FAVORITE MOVIE?  employees. I think it’s just all
“Tombstone.” the people that I meet, and it’s
FIRST JOB?  never boring.”
“When I was 15, in summertime my WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE
summer job was riding with city drivers UNHEALTHY THING TO EAT?  FAVORITE PART ABOUT
to deliver freight.” “Wow, there’s a lot of those, but I’m
going to go with onion rings.” WORKING WITH THE TTA? 
FIRST CAR?  “Again, I think it’s the people.
“It was a 1983 Lincoln Mark VI. It was a MOST FAMOUS PERSON YOU’VE [Dave] Huneryager and all the staff
hand-me-down from my dad.” EVER MET?  over there, Donna [England] and Carol
“[Retired New York Giants cornerback] [Foster] and Catherine [Stuart]. I think
FAVORITE HOBBY?  Jason Sehorn. I played 18 holes with him interacting with all of them and all of
“I love playing golf. I really love playing golf.” and a couple of poker games.” the other fleets, the leadership of the
other fleets that are, they are just all in.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPORT?  It’s an awesome group of people. It’s an
“To watch or to play? Let’s see here. awesome community.”
My favorite sport’s golf. I guess it’s
on both. I love watching golf and IF YOU WEREN’T IN TRUCKING,
playing golf.”
WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING? 
BEST PART ABOUT WORKING IN “Probably living in a van down by
THE TRUCKING INDUSTRY?  the river. No, I’m not real sure. You
“I think it’s the people. I mean, I think know, that’s a thought that’s not really
it’s your colleagues, competitors, come to mind very much because this is
just kind of all I’ve ever known or wanted
to do, really.”

28 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020



in his expectations. Reed said he learned national organizations. at age 71 at his home in Farragut. It was a
from his dad about the importance of Reed III described Big Bill as analytical. tragic loss for the industry and the family.
treating people with respect, to never stop As Reed explained, “He left a big impression
learning, and to support and promote the When he spoke, people listened because they on this company and on the people. …
industry. Big Bill was active not only in the knew he had carefully considered his words. They lost a family member, too, so to speak
TTA, where he served as chairman in 1998 Reed III said his brother also is quiet and laid if that makes sense. It hit everybody hard.”
and was awarded the association’s highest back, as well as hard working, dependable,
honor, the Pinnacle Award, but also in the upfront and honest. He’s also patient. Wayland Thompson said Reed quickly
American Trucking Associations and the assumed the leadership role his father had
Truckload Carriers Association. He was on “Dad was a firm believer in the old three- always played in the TTA.
the executive committees of both of those strikes-you’re-out kind of theory. Jeff is too, but
he might give them a fourth strike,” he said. “He had some big shoes to fill when his dad
passed away, and he just strode along,” he said.
Big Bill died suddenly on Dec. 17, 2018, “He accepted the passing of his father and
grieved like all of us did, but he just stepped in
During the unprecedented time our country has faced, the and carried on a great tradition that Bill Reed
trucking industry has stepped up and answered the call. Store had been there for decades in the association,
shelves have been restocked daily, warehouses remain full of and he just continues to follow that step with
essential goods, and consumers continue to receive their package his own pace in life.”
because of the tireless efforts of truckers.
In an effort to show our appreciation for truckers around the Big Bill devoted a lot of time to the industry
country, the Alabama Trucking Association and the ATA Comp and was a national leader. Reed III said he
Fund have partnered to show our gratitude for the hardworking would be proud to see his son follow in his
people that make up our industry. footsteps as TTA chairman.
It is our goal to continue to recognize the efforts of not just our
Members, but of each and every employee within our industry. “I know that taking over the role of the TTA
We hope that everyone remembers to #ThankATrucker for is something that we wish that our dad could
helping to keep America moving. be there to see,” said. “[I was] in Destin to see
when they pass the gavel and all that, and he
www.AlabamaTrucking.org www.ATACompFund.org would have made Dad proud for sure.”

At 46, Jeff Reed still has plenty of years
left to work in the trucking industry. It’s
what his family has always done, and he’s
never even considered doing anything else.

But what about a fourth generation? He
and his wife, Julie, have three sons who
are still in school – Tyler, Tate and Parker.
While he’s passing on the family’s values to
them, he’s not trying to groom them to take
over the family business.

“No, I’m not,” he said. “I think part of it is,
I don’t want them to have anything where
they feel an expectation to work here, so I’m
grooming them to develop their own passion
and interest, so that may not be with a trucking
company or in logistics at all. I think that my
job as a parent is to expose them to things and
almost encourage them otherwise, and then
find your passion and find what you do with it
because that way you’ll enjoy your career.

“So no, I’m not grooming them for this
at all. I’m grooming them to be successful
people and then successful individuals in
whatever profession that is.” TTN

30 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020

TTA Joins Push
to End FET

BY STEVE BRAWNER
CONTRIBUTING WRITER

If anybody questions whether the 12 which is pressing Congress to suspend 2019, that it’s the highest percentage-based
percent federal excise tax on heavy trucks the tax on the purchase of heavy-duty tax imposed by Congress on any product.
and trailers reduces truck sales, just ask trucks and trailers until the end of 2021.
Edward Coble. The suspension would be included in The Modernize the Truck Fleet
a stimulus package Congress passes in Coalition is composed of roughly 200
The Neely Coble vice president of response to the COVID-19 pandemic. industry stakeholders. The coalition
sales lost a 25-truck deal because the announced its formation in early 2019
buyer couldn’t justify the numbers with a At press time, congressional but gained steam this March when
tax that can add $10,000 to $22,000 to a Republicans and Democrats and the manufacturers and dealers saw their orders
truck’s price. Trump administration had not agreed plummet during the pandemic. It includes
on whether there will even be a stimulus the American Trucking Associations along
“He said, ‘A temporary suspension, a package this year, much less one with an with almost all state trucking associations,
rollback of FET (would be) the deciding FET suspension. the American Truck Dealers and the
factor with me updating my fleet or Tennessee Automotive Association.
just having to hunker down with the Still, progress has been made in
equipment that I have and kind of ride suspending the 103-year-old tax. On July Spokesperson Mike Joyce said the
out this current storm caused by the 25, Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH) sent a letter coalition originally had proposed
pandemic,’” Coble said. “That certainly calling for suspending the tax to Speaker suspending the tax until the end of this
caught my attention regarding FET when Nancy Pelosi and House Democratic calendar year. If the coalition can get relief
you lose a deal, and that’s kind of the leaders. It was signed by 54 other through 2021 and the economy still hasn’t
justification for it.” House Democrats. bounced back, it can return to Congress
and ask for the suspension to be extended.
The Tennessee Trucking Association Last year, Rep. Doug LaMalfa, R-Calif.,
is trying to ensure the tax doesn’t keep and Rep. Collin Peterson, D-Minn., The FET was created in 1917 to pay for
any more new trucks off the road, at introduced the Modern, Clean and Safe World War I expenses but exists today
least in the near future. It’s part of the Trucks Act, which would have repealed the as a trucker-targeted tax that supports
Modernize the Truck Fleet Coalition, FET. They noted in a press release April 30,
CONTINUED 

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 31

the Highway Trust Fund. It’s grown from New technologies In this case, however, “The industry’s being
3 percent when it was introduced to 12 have reduced carbon penalized for making good decisions.”
percent today.
dioxide emissions Ozark Motor Lines, which operates
Suspending the excise tax would by 43 million tons, about 820 trucks and buys about 150 a
lead to more truck sales. A survey of year, would probably turn over its trucks
trucking fleets by the American Trucking nitrogen oxide more frequently if it didn’t have to pay the
Associations found that 23.4 percent of emissions by 21 million 12 percent tax, said Jason Higginbotham,
respondents said they were “very likely” to chief financial officer. Higginbotham said
purchase additional equipment if Congress tons, and particulate the FET is a burdensome tax specifically
created incentives such as eliminating matter emissions by 1.2 targeted toward the trucking industry.
the FET. Another 35.8 percent said they million tons since 2010.
were “somewhat likely,” while 28.2 percent Sixty new trucks would “Getting rid of the excise tax would
said they were “not likely” to purchase significantly lower the cost of new
additional equipment and 12.6 percent generate the same equipment,” he said. “It would make it
said they “wouldn’t change” their plans. amount of emissions as easier for us to continue to upgrade and
one truck built in 1989. maintain our fleet and provide a safe,
The coalition wrote a letter earlier this efficient and environmentally
year to congressional leaders requesting highway bill and a clean extension of friendly operation.”
that Congress suspend the FET in the appropriation funding in one package.
next coronavirus stimulus package. The Troy Dickens, Rush Enterprises
letter argued that truck sales had fallen Putting newer trucks on the road regional general manager in charge of
significantly compared to the previous would offer many benefits. The average five dealerships in Tennessee, Kentucky
year, and suspending it would lead to more age of today’s trucks is almost 10 years. and Alabama, acknowledged that
truck and trailer purchases. Modernize the Truck Fleet says new trucks suspending the tax would reduce money
emit 97 percent less nitrogen oxide and 98 flowing into the Highway Trust Fund.
“In turn, this would help save or bring percent less particulate matter than trucks He offered a suggestion: What if we just
back the livelihoods of the 7.8 million of three decades ago. New technologies reduced the tax?
Americans employed in jobs related to have reduced carbon dioxide emissions by
trucking,” the letter said. 43 million tons, nitrogen oxide emissions “If it is actually the highest taxed item
by 21 million tons, and particulate matter out there, then let’s be reasonable about it,”
The coalition is sensitive to how a emissions by 1.2 million tons since 2010. he said. “It’s probably one of the highest
suspension would affect the Highway Sixty new trucks would generate the priced items out there, too. And if they
Trust Fund. The FET raised about $4 same amount of emissions as one truck reduced it 3 percent, it’s a big chunk of
billion each of the past two years, but those built in 1989. money (for) companies that are buying
were robust truck purchasing years. The large numbers of trucks every year.”
Joint Committee on Taxation scored the Those gains were made in response
proposal as costing the trust fund $5.45 to regulatory mandates that have added Joyce said the coalition is open to a
billion through the end of calendar year nearly $40,000 to a new truck’s price. reduction in the tax – perhaps cutting it in
2021, but that estimate did not account for Suspending the tax would make it easier half or phasing it down.
the effects of COVID-19. for carriers to make up that cost.
Even if the FET suspension isn’t included
Joyce said the coalition in September Today’s trucks also are more fuel in this stimulus package, Joyce said the
was finalizing a refreshed letter and adding efficient. Modernize the Truck Fleet says coalition will continue making its case.
a Frequently Asked Questions that would they have saved 101 million barrels of
address issues such as how to make up the crude oil and 4.2 billion gallons of diesel “There’s a lot of members of Congress –
reduced revenue going to the trust fund. fuel since 2010. Government mandates will no offense to them, zero offense to them
The coalition is arguing the lost revenue require future models to be even cleaner – but they don’t know what the FET is,”
should be replaced with money from the and more fuel efficient through 2027. he said. “They have no earthly idea, and
federal government’s general fund, with Newer trucks also are more likely to be so this effort I think will pay dividends as
further consideration made as Congress outfitted with safety technologies. we go down the road of how to address
reauthorizes the highway funding law. That the Highway Trust Fund, how to pay for
law expires Sept. 30. Joyce said Congress Joyce pointed out that excise taxes it, how to take away this disincentive to
will probably punt that issue for a year by are often meant to discourage what the buying equipment, new equipment, good
passing a clean short-term extension of the government considers harmful behavior. equipment for the environment and for
safety, and I think we’ve come a long way
in that respect.” TTN

32 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020

7,000
truckingTENNESSEE truckingTENNESSEE truckingTENNESSEE truckingTENNESSEE
OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE
OF THE TENNESSEE OF THE TENNESSEE OF THE TENNESSEE OF THE TENNESSEE
TRUCKING ASSOCIATION TRUCKING ASSOCIATION TRUCKING ASSOCIATION TRUCKING ASSOCIATION

Q1 SPRING 2020 Q4 WINTER 2019-2020 Q3 FALL 2019 Q2 SUMMER 2019

$4.95 VALUE $4.95 VALUE $4.95 VALUE $4.95 VALUE

NEWS NEWS NEWS NEWS

TRUCKERS TTA’s 89th
ARE CONVENTION
ESSENTIAL
ELDs
#ThankATrucker HOURS OF SERVICE

ATRI-OOIDA COVID A 12-Year Trucking Economics
STUDY RESULTS Old’s Dream FCMLCESAA’SRDIRNUGG&HAOLCUOHSOEL

Road Team Father & Son Duo Donna England TTA’s 1st Convention Expo
Tennessee Trucking Association
TTA’s 90th Convention in 2020 THE FUTURE IS NOW
AUTOMATED TRUCKS: Tennessee Trucking Association’s
One Set of Rules Needed, Not 50 2019 Grand Champion Award, New Young Professional Council is
Matt Holmes, Southern Champion Tray paving the way for future leadership.
Trucks: Buying vs Leasing & Major Brandon Douglas, THP

President Trump & Stephen Richardson, Big G Express TTA’s 2020 Road Team

READERS STRONG

TTA’s Tennessee Trucking News reaches more than 7,000 leaders in transportation
throughout Tennessee and beyond. And we continue to grow our readership. That

makes advertising in Tennessee Trucking News an excellent business decision.
If you want to reach this highly targeted and influential group of industry decision-
makers and ask them to consider purchasing your products or services, then you’ll

want to place an ad in every edition of Tennessee Trucking News.

Please contact our publisher, Jennifer Matthews, at [email protected]
or call (501) 690-9393 — if she doesn’t call you first!

TTA’S 90th CONVENTION

EXPO Ribbon Cutting: Dave Huneryager, TTA President, Michael Shipman, Vertical Alliance Group, Connie Vaughan, TTA Chariman, McKee Foods
Transportation, LLC, Greg Shipman, Vertical Alliance Group

2020 Maintenance Professional of 2020 Young Professional of the Year 2020 Safety Professional of 2020 Allied Professional of the Year
the Year Award: Andrea Anderson, Award: Holly Czuba, Cumberland the Year: Jason Bolton, Averitt Award: Jerry Luneke, IIX
YRC Worldwide Inc. International Trucks, Inc. Express, Inc.

34 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020

Representative Pat Marsh, Senator Paul Bailey, Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson Randy Guillot, Chairman, American Trucking Associations

Pass the Gavel Ceremony: Jeff Reed, Incoming TTA Chairman, 2020 Large Fleet Grand Champion Award: Connie Vaughan, TTA Chairman, McKee Foods
Skyline Transportation, Inc., Connie Vaughan, Outgoing TTA Transportation, LLC, Deena Crans, Brown Trucking Company, Donna England, TTA
Chairman, McKee Foods Transportation, LLC

Matt Neary, Mckee Foods Transportation, LLC, Josh Johnson, Titan Transfer, Inc., Kevin Davis, Ozark Motor Lines, Inc., Jeff Coffey, Old
Dominion Freight Line, Inc., Steve Bowar, Titan Transfer, Inc.,

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 35

Sharpen drivers’
safety skills

NEW Help new and experienced drivers avoid
incidents with J. J. Keller’s Driver Training Series
AD-56939
— now with 2 NEW programs.

Backing Techniques covers:

• the dangers of backing
• general backing guidelines
• applying backing techniques based on the situation

AD-56940 Coupling & Uncoupling covers how to:
J. J. Keller and your State Trucking
Association are partners in compliance. • inspect the coupling system
• safely operate landing gear and pull releases
• identify safe practices when using a converter dolly

Ortdoedray Use for initial or
for just refresher training!

$325ea.DS

RIVER TRAINING SERIE

To order, call TTA at 615-777-2882 TM
or email [email protected]
PC 203783

$500 Bingo Card Winner- Kenneth Wheeler, Old Dominion Harold Sumerford, J&M Tank Lines, Inc., Clark Johnson, Havco Wood Products, Travis
Freight Line, Inc., Donna England, TTA, Donna Wheeler, Old Coffman, EROAD, Inc., John McKinnon, EROAD, Inc., Troy Dickens, Rush Truck Center, Dave
Dominion Freight Line, Inc. Huneryager, TTA, Steve Hill, Drivers Legal Plan, Wayland Thompson, FirstFleet, Inc., & Keith
Rowe, Peterbilt Motors Company

Clark Johnson, Havco Wood Products, Keith Rowe, Peterbilt Motors Company, Tim Smith, Pivotal Fleet Solutions, Stephen Davis, SE Davis & Associates,
Steve Hill, Drivers Legal Plan & Wayland Thompson, FirstFleet, Inc. Steve Davis, PeopLease, & Tom Morton, PeopLease

Connie Vaughan, TTA Chairman, McKee Foods Grady Phillips & Megan Wyatt, Corporate Bill Sullivan, American Trucking Associations, Harold
Transportation, LLC, Tommy Hodges, Titan Transfer Medical Services Sumerford, J&M Tank Lines, Inc.

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 37

Noah & Kristen Sodrel, Ruby McBride, Colonial Freight Systems, David Williams, Andy St Amour, & Kristy Chuck & Jennifer Mangelsdorf,
Inc., & Gary Holbrook, Safety Services Taylor, Tow Pro, Inc. McAngus Goudelock & Courie

Greg Shipman, Vertical Alliance Group John McKinnon & Travis Coffman, EROAD, Inc. Amy Langley & Rusty Burnett, MidWestern
Insurance Alliance

Ryan Linville, Joe Boling, & Jeremy Denton, Kile Truck Refrigeration Judy Stokes & Tammy Rodgers,
38 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020 Washington National Insurance

Clark Johnson, Havco Wood Products
Gary Meunier, TKO Graphix

Nick Grome, Netradyne Coverages: Truck Insurance...It’s What We Do
Hal Dowland, PrePass Physical Damage
Not everyone can drive a truck. It takes skill, experience, and
Auto Liability commitment. The same is true for providing truck insurance.
Cargo
Serving truckers for over eighty years, the staff at Joe Morten & Son,
General Liability Inc. has the expertise to provide not just insurance, but solutions. We
Umbrella get to know our customers’ unique challenges and work with them to
meet their needs. We have seven office locations and serve over 40
Workers Compensation states. Put us to the test and contact us today!

Occupational Accident Corporate Office Regional Office
And many more 1309 West 29th Street 10100 Global Way, Suite 200
South Sioux City, NE 68776
Knoxville, TN 37932
402.494.4251 865.392.3800

Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 39

Road TeamTennessee Trucking Association’s 2020

For Driver appreciation week, Great West Casualty Company’s Knoxville office joined the TTA
in hosting a Truck Driver Appreciation event to say ‘thank you’ to the more than 32 million truck
drivers moving America forward every day. Great West provided 300 free lunches and goodie

bags for drivers on Sept. 15th at the Tennessee DOT weigh station. A huge thank you to Great
West Casualty Company for supporting these everyday heroes! #ThankATrucker

Wayne Covely, Walmart Transportation, LLC, Josh Johnson, Road Team Captain, Bruce Willenborg, Great West, Casualty Company
Titan Transfer, Inc., Jeff Allen, Great West Casualty Company, Donna England,
TTA, Bruce Willenborg, and Doug Orton, Great West, Casualty Company

Wayne Covely, Road Team Captain, Walmart Doug Orton, Great West Casualty Company Jeff Allen, Great West Casualty Company
Transportation, LLC

40 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020

Southeast Tennessee Big Rigs for Little Kids Golf Tournament,
Annual Convention & Silent Auction

Rare Truck Set donated by Carl Ritter, Retired 2020 Silent Auction

Tommy Hodges, Josh Johnson, Steve Bowar, Phillip Edwards, Titan Transfer, Inc. Clark Johnson, Havco Wood Products, John and Sheila Henderson, TCW, Inc.
Q2 SUMMER 2020 TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS • 41

New TTA Members Tennessee Trucking News

ALLIED CARRIER ADVERTISER
CameraMatics Mealer Trucking LLC RESOURCE INDEX
FlowBelow Phillips Trucking LLC
Pivotal Fleet Solutions Adams & Reese LLP 15
TrueNorth Companies
Your Tax Care American Trucking Associations’ MC&E 16

ATA Comp Fund 30

Clarke Power Services 14

Calendar of Events DCLI 29

OCTOBER Drivers Legal Plan 25
Oct. 21-23 Fall Conference, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort, Pigeon Forge
Great West Casualty Co. Inside front cover
NOVEMBER
Nov. 4-5 NATMI - Safety & DOT Compliance , Kenco, Chattanooga, TN International/Navistar Inside back cover
Nov. 26-27 Holiday - TTA Office Closed - Thanksgiving
J.J. Keller & Associates 36
DECEMBER
Dec. 9-10 NATMI - Safety & DOT Compliance TBD Joe Morten & Son Insurance 39
December 17 TTF Raffle Drawing / TTF Board & TTA Executive Committee Meeting
Dec. 24- 25 Holiday - TTA Office Closed – Christmas MCH Kenworth 4

McMahon Truck Group 39

Nacarato Volvo Trucks 24

Neely Coble Company, Inc. 6

PrePass Safety Alliance 19

Rush Truck Center Back cover

Snider Fleet Solutions 3

Southern Tire Mart 10

TA/Petro 12

TAG Truck Center/Freightliner 8

Tennessee Trucking News 33, 42

Truckers Against Trafficking 21

Please visit www.TNTrucking.org to see the digital This edition of Tennessee Trucking News
version of Tennessee Trucking News, complete with was made possible with the support of these
corporate advertisers, all TTA members. They
“live” links to our advertisers’ websites! support the trucking industry by enabling
And...pass it along! Tennessee Trucking Association to provide
this publication to its members, prospective
42 • TENNESSEE TRUCKING NEWS Q2 SUMMER 2020 members, elected officials and the business
community at large. They deserve your
consideration and patronage when making your
corporate purchasing decisions. Thank you!

JCJiOimmRPPOPRiinnATddEeeFrrLEET DIRECTOR

CORPORATE FLEET DIRECTOR

TTHHEE DDCCEOEOLLMMIIVVBBEEIINNRRAAIINNTTGIGIOORRNNEETTLLHHIIAAAABBTTIILLPPIIUUTTTYTYSSAATTNNHHDDEEBBEEEERRTTBBTTGEGERRRROODDUURRPPIIVVOOEEFFRR CCSSOAOATMTMIIPSPSAFAFAANNCCIIEETTSSIIOOAANNHH..EEAADD
“Our business deals with refrigerated deliveries, so it’s imperative we’re on time – breaking down isn’t
“Our business deals with refrigerated deliveries, so it’s imperative we’re on time – breaking down isn’t
an option. Being the lightest engine in its class, the International® A26 Engine allows us to haul more
an option. Being the lightest engine in its class, the International® A26 Engine allows us to haul more
payload and earn more revenue. Not to mention, we can get over 10 miles per gallon. It’s resulted in
payload and earn more revenue. Not to mention, we can get over 10 miles per gallon. It’s resulted in
mmoorree ffuueell ssaavviinnggss ffoorr uuss tthhaann oouurr pprreevviioouuss ssppeecciifificcaattiioonnss.. IItt’’ss aallssoo tthhee qquuiieetteesstt aanndd mmoosstt eefffificciieenntt eennggiinnee
wwee hhaavvee iIiInnnnttooeeuurrnrnraflafltteeiioeoentnt..aaRRll®®eeAAlliia2a2bb66iillEEiittnnyyggiiisisnnkekeee.”.”yy––,, aaJJnniimmdd oPoPuiuinnrrdduueepprrttiimmee ddeeppeennddss oonn tthhee IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaall®® LLTT®® aanndd RRHH™™ SSeerriieess
with the
with the

VIEW THE ERB GROUP OF COMPANIES FULL STORY AND DISCOVER THE BENEFITS OF DRIVING AN
CUMBERLAND INT’ILVN.ITETEWRRUNTCHAKTESIEORNBAGLLRLATONUWDPMITOAHFRTKCHOIENMTINP’LAT.ENTRIRENUSACFTKUIOSLNL ASLTOAR2Y6LEAEENN-GDSMIDNIIETSHCAOT VINETRETRHNEABTIEONNEAFLITTSRUOCFTKDRSRI.-CISVOTIAMNT/GEEARINNBT’L. TRUCKS
www.cumberlandtruIcNkTsE.cRoNmATIONALwLwTwW.laITndHmTaHrEktIrNuTcEksR.cNoAmTIONAL A26wwENwG.leINe-EsmATithIN.cToEmRNATIONALTRUCwKwS.wC.OtrMist/aEtReBinternational.net

Nashville TN (615) 256-4633 Knoxville TN (865) 637-4881 Chattanooga TN (423) 622-4161 Union City TN (731) 885-9302

Murfreesboro TN (615) 427-4600 Cookeville TN (931) 738-0480 Murray KY (270) 753-1372

VOLUNTEER INTERNATIONAL Morristown TN (423) 586-8558 Bowling Green KY (270) 843-9031
www.volunteerintl.com Oak Grove KY (270) 605-5301

Jackson TN (731) 422-3411

© 2019 , Inc. All rights reserved.
A©ll2m0a1r9ks are trademar, kInsco. fAtlhl eriirghrtesspreescetirvveedo.wners.
All marks are trademarks of their respective owners.

WHEN IT COMES TO TRUCKING,
NO ONE OFFERS YOU MORE.

Rush Truck Center – Nashville is part of North America’s largest network of heavy- and medium-duty truck
dealerships, representing industry-leading brands including Peterbilt. We offer an extensive inventory of
parts and accessories and are staffed by ASE-certified service professionals who provide skilled maintenance
and repair for all makes and models.

• New and pre-owned sales • Car hauler
• Service • Leasing
• Mobile service • Financing
• All-makes parts • Insurance
• Collision center

CONTACT US TODAY TO SEE WHY NO ONE OFFERS YOU MORE.

RUSH TRUCK CENTER – NASHVILLE
900 Expo Drive | Smyrna, Tennessee 37167
615-220-7777 local
rushtruckcenters.com

© 2020 Rush Enterprises, Inc. 1291-0920 RTC Nashville Truck News Ad