Letter to the Editor: Fuel Prices and O-Os

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n my last trip I was shocked at the fuel prices!

However, I saw little action taken by many drivers on the road. Everyone was running at the usual high speed and idling his or her truck when it was a comfortable 50 degrees out.

I’m wondering if anyone is concerned enough to put some fuel conservation in practice?

For many carriers the real problem is driver turnover, not fuel prices. We all know that reducing the maximum speed will lead to lower pay over the same amount of time, which leads to higher turnover — and companies do not want that.

As for owner-operators, many just can’t change their driving habits, even to save themselves. I have tried to run my truck at its most efficient speed in terms of revolutions per minute, and take loads that will pay me a good return.

But with tight schedules on loads, the thought of slowing down to save fuel will remain a thought and not an action for many.

John Scott

I>Owner-Operator

andstar Inway

ount Morris, Ill.

This letter appeared in the Oct. 25 edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.