Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

Office of Research and Technology

Results from the 2003 R & T Stakeholder Forums

April 2003

Table of Contents

Executive Summary

Introduction

Forum Organization

Report Organization

Recommended Research Agenda

Recommended Driver-Related Research

Recommended Vehicle-Related Research

Recommended Carrier/Shipper-Related Research

Recommended Roadside/Environmental-Related Research

General FMCSA Recommendations

Improve Commercial Vehicle Data Sources

Research the Agency ’ s Staffing Levels

Improve " Follow-Through "

Develop a Knowledge Management System

Appendix A

Appendix B

Executive Summary

FMCSA ’ s Office of Research and Technology held a series of five stakeholder forums throughout February and March 2003. These forums were structured to gather stakeholder input regarding the agency ’ s research agenda, and educate stakeholders about the FMCSA Research and Technology program and key ongoing projects. The forums were attended by a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from:

• Motor carriers;

• Motor coach companies;

• Industry associations;

• Safety advocacy groups;

• State enforcement agencies;

• Commercial vehicle manufacturers;

• Academia; and

• Vendors of systems and services focused on improving commercial vehicle safety.

The forums generated over 150 recommendations regarding FMCSA ’ s research program. Recommendations ranged from the need for better data sources to specific research questions that need to be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety. The majority of recommendations focused on driver-related factors. Recommendations also were made regarding vehicle, carrier/shipper, and roadside/environmental issues. This document summarizes the forum ’ s recommendations.

Recommended Driver-Related Research

Participants cited numerous recent studies noting the high frequency with which driver-related factors are recorded in commercial motor vehicle-involved crashes. As such, participants recommended that driver-related issues be FMCSA ’ s top research priority. Participants recommended that driver-related research be conducted in four areas to improve commercial vehicle safety. These areas included:

• Fatigue - identified as a primary factor in commercial motor vehicle crashes by all participants;

• Commercial Driver Medical Qualifications – a key concern because some of FMCSA ’ s medical standards are inconsistent with current medical research and drivers often are medically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle erroneously;

• Route Familiarity – an underlying cause of many driver-related issues, including running of the road and driver inattention; and

• Driver Training and Testing – a research topic that is perceived as supporting improved commercial vehicle and passenger vehicle operations, as well a motor carrier safety management programs.

Specific driver-related recommendations are summarized below.

In the area of fatigue, the specific research recommendations were:

• Investigate the correlation between fatigue-related crashes and commercial motor vehicle drivers returning to work (from illness, vacation, etc.) or changing shifts

• Evaluate the safety impacts of differing commercial driver compensation models, including requiring drivers be paid for non-driving time

• Evaluate the safety impacts of differing commercial driver working conditions (frequency of returning home, sleeper berths, etc.)

• Evaluate the safety impact of FMCSA ’ s " extended day " rule interpretation on motor coach safety

• Develop a fatigue impairment standard that can be used to objectively determine when a driver is fatigued - similar to the blood alcohol content measure for driving while intoxicated

• Investigate the development of a " smart parking " system to notify commercial motor vehicle drivers of the location and availability of commercial vehicle parking spots in real-time

In the area of commercial driver medial qualifications, the specific research recommendations were:

• Review existing CDL medical guidelines and ensure they are consistent with the most recent medical studies and guidelines of major medical organizations (World Health Organization, American Medical Association, etc.)

• Identify the safety benefits of properly conducting a CDL medical exam

• Survey medical personnel to determine the extent of their knowledge regarding CDL medical requirements

• Develop a standard curriculum to train medical personnel on how to conduct a proper CDL medical exam

• Review FAA model for medical exams and identify any " best practices " that could be incorporated into FMCSA ’ s operations

In the area of commercial route familiarity, the specific research recommendations were:    

• Study the safety impact of integrating existing solutions (Highway Advisory Radio, 511, integrated routing systems) into commercial vehicle operations

• Develop the national infrastructure to monitor in real-time a commercial vehicle ’ s position and provide travel-related updates and advisories

In the area of driver training and testing, the specific research recommendations were:

• Study the benefits of requiring expanded skills tests for commercial drivers, including the testing of a driver ’ s night vision, reaction time, and reflexes

• Investigate the feasibility and benefits of developing continuous driver training for commercial and passenger vehicle drivers

• Study the feasibility of testing passenger vehicle drivers on how to operate their vehicles around a commercial vehicle

• Study the feasibility of developing a standardized commercial drivers ’ license training curriculum

• Study the effectiveness of passenger vehicle driver education programs on improving safety

Recommended Vehicle-Related Research

Participants noted that vehicle-based research could improve the safety performance of commercial vehicles and identify countermeasures to other crash factors, such as fatigue, roll-overs, and running off the road. Participants also noted that vehicle-based research could provide substantial security benefits. Recommendations generally fell into two categories:

• Existing vehicle design and systems - ensuring that existing commercial vehicle equipment and on-board safety systems perform optimally; and

• New vehicle design and systems - redesigning commercial motor vehicles and safety technologies to improve commercial vehicle performance.

Specific vehicle related recommendations are summarized below.

In the area of existing systems, the specific research recommendations were:

• Test the voltage reaching commercial motor vehicle brake lights (especially on longer combination vehicles) to ensure the lights are performing properly

• Conduct a technical scan of existing on-board technologies that could have a security application

• Conduct a scan of other countries ’ use of on-board technologies to identify " best practices "

• Evaluate truck design to balance a driver ’ s comfort versus making him/her too comfortable, which may contribute to fatigue

• Conduct an operational test of rear fog lights on commercial vehicles

• Review existing vehicle standards to ensure that they are still applicable to the modern commercial vehicle, such as the appropriateness of push-open windows on modern motor coaches

• Identify the long-term benefits (or harm) to driver behavior associated with use of on-board safety technologies

• Study the feasibility of providing in-cab notifications regarding weather advisories, parking, etc.

• Conduct a case study on the US Army ’ s dynamic routing of loads around adverse weather conditions

• Study the effectiveness of " smart signs " for weather-related information

• Study the design and safety performance of 15-passenger vans

• Extend Intelligent Vehicle Initiative research to the motor coach industry

• Study the safety impact of transporting medical equipment in the passenger compartment of a motor coach

• Study the adequacy of motor coach evacuation plans for disabled and/or wheelchair dependent riders

In the area of new systems, the specific research recommendations were:

• Conduct an operational test on using on-board diagnostic systems to automate the commercial motor vehicle inspection process

• Investigate commercial vehicle redesign to lower the center of gravity

• Coordinate with Department of Energy ’ s video mirror project

• Study the feasibility of developing in-cab electronic " rumble strips " to notify drivers of swerving or improper lane tracking

• Study the applicability of infrared/vision-enhancement technology in commercial vehicles

• Evaluate the safety impacts of developing side impact, under-ride protection for tank trucks

• Research systems to require identification of the driver before enabling a commercial vehicle to start

• Conduct research on fully-automated vehicles

Recommended Carrier/Shipper -Related Research

Motor carriers/motor coach companies and shippers/customers are perceived to have both positive and negative influences on commercial vehicle safety. To support the positive influences and combat the negative, participants recommended FMCSA conduct research in the following areas:

• Safety management programs - internal management practices, such as roving safety vans and performance-based reviews, designed to improve a company ’ s safety performance;

• Shipper liability - extending FMCSA enforcement and sanctions to shippers, which are perceived as the root cause of many commercial vehicle violations; and

• Improved regulation and enforcement - augmenting FMCSA ’ s regulatory and enforcement activities targeted at commercial vehicle operators, especially new entrants.

Specific Carrier/Shipper related research recommendations are summarized below.

In the area of safety management programs, the specific research recommendations were:

• Study the effectiveness of carrier incentive programs (awards, bonuses, etc.) in modifying commercial driver behavior and improving safety

• Evaluate a driver ’ s " churning " - continuously changing jobs - as an indicator of safety performance

• Study the feasibility of notifying motor carriers of their driver ’ s unsafe behavior

• Evaluate the behavioral impact of monitoring driver ’ s performance through on-board sensors

• Develop recommended hiring criteria to assist motor carrier and motor coach companies identify " good " drivers - " how many violations is too many "

• Study the safety impact of motor carriers employing roving safety vans to monitor their drivers ’ on-the-road performance

• Investigate the development of sanctions against companies that refuse a request regarding a former employees driving history

In the area of shipper liability the specific research recommendations were:

• Document shippers ’ influence on motor carrier and motor coach operations

• Assess the feasibility of requiring owners of intermodal chasses to obtain US DOT numbers

• Conduct a scan of other countries ’ models of shared safety liability between carriers and shippers (e.g., Australia)

• Identify " best practices " for carrier/shipper interactions

• Identify electronic methods to make the supply-chain more efficient, including freight posting services, shared resources, etc.

• Conduct feasibility analysis for creating a hot-line for motor carriers/motor coach operators to report shippers making unreasonable scheduling demands/requests

In the area of improved regulation and enforcement, the specific research recommendations were:

• Study the feasibility of requiring new entrants to pass a proficiency exam before applying for operating authority and/or being granted full operating authority

• Study the safety impact of requiring new entrants to acquire training in Federal safety regulations and " best practices "

• Study the safety benefits and feasibility of requiring bi-annual terminal audits for all interstate motor carriers

• Assess the safety differences between contract and company drivers

• Study regulatory methods to ensure that corporate officials from a firm ordered out of service by the government are not allowed to reconstitute their company under another name and U.S. DOT number

Recommended Roadside/Environmental-Related Research

Weather-related issues were noted as the most common roadside/environmental safety factor. Participants, however, noted that this risk is best addressed through vehicle-based research. Within the roadside/environmental area, participants recommended that FMCSA research the following:

• Roadway design - ensuring that the nation ’ s infrastructure can accommodate commercial vehicles; and

• State/local ordinances - studying the safety impact of State and local ordinances and ensuring that they do not negatively impact commercial vehicle safety.

Specific stakeholder recommendations in the area of Roadside/Environment are summarized below.

In the area of roadway design, the specific research recommendations were:

• Determine the feasibility of including commercial vehicle-related factors in AASHTO ’ s " Green Book-- A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets " , which identifies the universal standards for roadway design

• Study the safety impact of narrower lanes on commercial motor vehicles

• Study the safety impact of States ’ implementation of rumble strips in lane dividers

• Study the safety impact of creating truck-only lanes and truck-exclusion lanes

In the area of State and local ordinances, the specific research recommendations were:

• Study the safety impact of speed limit differentials

• Study the safety impact of ordinances limiting motor coach idling time

1.0 Introduction

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) was founded to prevent commercial motor vehicle fatalities and injuries. The agency works to ensure safety through a combination of activities, including strong and targeted enforcement of safety regulations, improved information technologies and data sharing, strengthened equipment and operating standards, and public education and outreach. (Note: This information is taken from the FMCSA web site, which is at www.fmcsa.dot.gov.) The most recent crash statistics indicate that the safety performance of the commercial vehicle industry continues to improve; although the number of fatalities resulting from large truck-involved crashes remains unacceptably high (5,082). (Note: This statistic is taken from page 4 of Large Truck Crash Facts, 2001.) FMCSA ’ s Office of Research and Technology conducts a wide range of research activities in support of the agency ’ s mission to improve commercial vehicle safety.

In an effort to standardize the research approach across the agency, FMCSA is implementing a new research methodology. A key component of this methodology is to solicit the input of external stakeholders in advance of setting the agency ’ s research agenda. As part of this effort, the Office of Research and Technology conducted five stakeholder forums, on:

• February 6, 2003: San Diego, CA;

• February 12, 2003: Austin, TX;

• February 20, 2003: Washington, DC;

• February 21, 2003: Washington, DC; and

• March 19, 2003: Washington DC.

Originally, only three forums were planned. The February 21 st forum was added due to the large number of stakeholders registering for the February 20 th session. The March 19 th session was added as a special session focused exclusively on the motor coach industry.

This report summarizes the forums and highlights the key findings.

1.1 Forum Organization

The primary objective of the forums was to gather stakeholders ’ input towards the agency ’ s research agenda. However, the forums also served to educate stakeholders about the FMCSA Research and Technology program and key ongoing projects. Participants represented a cross-section of the agency ’ s constituencies. Participants represented:

• Motor carriers;

• Motor coach companies;

• Industry associations;

• Safety advocacy groups;

• State enforcement agencies;

• Commercial vehicle manufacturers;

• Academia; and

• Vendors with systems and services focused on improving commercial vehicle safety.

All meetings were open to the public with a maximum of thirty attendees per session. A list of session participants is included in Appendix A.

The forums were organized as facilitated roundtable discussions divided into five segments. Each segment addressed a specific component of commercial vehicle safety, security, and productivity. The five segments included:

• Driver-Related Factors;

• Vehicle-Related factors;

• Carrier/Shipper-Related Factors;

• Roadside/Environment-Related Factors; and

• Miscellaneous Topics (such as cross-area interaction).

Participants were allowed to determine the length of time spent on each topic. The issue of Security was addressed throughout the forum during each topic.

The roundtable format allowed participants to engage in lively discussions about the causes of commercial vehicle crashes and identify research areas that could be effective in addressing these areas. The forums yielded over 150 recommendations for research activities related to commercial vehicle safety and security. Most of these recommendations address topics under the jurisdiction of the FMCSA. Some recommendations were outside the jurisdiction of the FMCSA or would require a joint study between FMCSA and another Federal agency. These recommendations will be referred to the appropriate Federal agency for their review.

1.2 Report Organization

The report is organized into three sections and two appendices, which are as follows:

• Section 1.0 provides an overview of the forums and highlights the sessions ’ key findings;

• Section 2.0 documents the key findings from the stakeholder forums;

• Section 3.0 identifies more general recommendations for FMCSA ’ s research program and the agency as a whole;

• Appendix A contains a list of participants; and

• Appendix B contains the forums ’ agendas.

2.0   Recommended Research Agenda

A diverse group of safety professionals and commercial vehicle experts participated in the FMCSA Office of Research and Technology Forums. These stakeholders drew upon their vast experience to provide input towards FMCSA ’ s research agenda. In general terms, recommendations from industry and enforcement participants focused on research topics that offered operational improvements to their day-to-day activities. Representatives from academia, manufacturers, and safety advocacy groups tended to recommend longer-term research activities with potentially larger safety impacts. Taken in combination, this input provides FMCSA with a robust and diverse set of recommendations for its research agenda for the future.

This section details the participants ’ research recommendations. The recommendations are organized around FMCSA ’ s four primary research areas:

• Driver (commercial and passenger vehicles);

• Vehicle;

• Carrier/shipper; and

• Roadside/environmental.

2.1 Recommended Driver-Related Research

Driver-related factors dominated the forums ’ discussions. Participants cited numerous recent studies noting the high frequency with which driver-related factors are recorded in commercial motor vehicle-involved crashes. To this end, participants recommended that driver-related issues be FMCSA ’ s top research priority. Specifically, participants recommended that driver-related research be conducted in four areas to improve commercial vehicle safety, including:

• Fatigue;

• Commercial driver medical qualifications;

• Route familiarity; and

• Driver training and testing.

Fatigue

Participants agreed that fatigue remains a primary factor in commercial motor vehicle crashes, even though it is infrequently reported in crash data. Stakeholders also agreed that fatigue often exacerbates other driver-related factors, such as inattention, speeding, improperly changing lanes, etc., increasing the risk that a driver will be involved in a crash. Participants differed on the causes of fatigue, citing a variety of possible contributing factors. These factors included:

• Returning to " overnight " duty after a vacation, illness, or a weekend;

• Unreasonable shipping/delivery schedules;

• Driver compensation schemes that are based on miles driven;

• Inadequate rest/sleep from being in a sleeper berth; and

• FMCSA " extended day " rule interpretation for motor coach drivers. (Note: The " extended day " rule interpretation allows motor coach drivers to log any time, in which they are not " in control " of the motor coach as " off duty " time. Participants noted that this rule in some cases can allow a driver to be awake and " attached " to a group for upwards of 17 hours, even though they have not violated their hours of service.)

Industry representatives also suggested that driver negligence is a likely cause of fatigue, especially in terms of how a driver spends his/her " off duty " time. Carrier representatives noted, however, this aspect of driver behavior is beyond their control; despite its profound impact on commercial vehicle safety.

Participants recommended FMCSA conduct research to validate the correlation between these factors and fatigue and/or to identify countermeasures to these factors. Participants also recommended the following research activities to address fatigue:

• Investigate the correlation between fatigue-related crashes and commercial motor vehicle drivers returning to work (from illness, vacation, etc;) or changing shifts;

• Investigate impact of fatigue on passenger-vehicle drivers;

• Evaluate the safety impacts of differing commercial driver compensation models, including requiring drivers be paid for non-driving time;

• Evaluate the safety impacts of differing commercial driver working conditions (frequency of returning home, sleeper berths, etc.);

• Evaluate the safety impact of FMCSA ’ s " extended day " rule interpretation on motor coach safety;

• Develop a fatigue impairment standard that can be used to objectively determine when a driver is fatigued - similar to the blood alcohol content measure for driving while intoxicated; and

• Investigate the development of a " smart parking " system to notify commercial motor vehicle drivers of the location and availability of commercial vehicle parking spots in real-time.

Commercial driver medical qualifications

Participants noted the need for extensive research in the area of commercial driver medical qualifications. This area was of particular interest to representatives from the motor carrier, motor coach, and medical communities. These participants identified several FMCSA medical guidelines which are inconsistent with current medical research and are in need of updating. As an example, participants noted that the U.S. DOT standard for " mild hypertension " is a blood pressure of 161-180 systolic and 104 diastolic, which is considerably higher than the current medical standard for this condition (140 systolic and 90 diastolic) (Note: The source for this statistic is the American Medical Association.) In the cases of diverging standards, research was recommended to support the alignment of the U.S. DOT standards with the medical community ’ s standards.

The industry representatives and medical personnel at the forums also noted a need to improve the process by which commercial drivers are medically examined and cleared for work. Currently, medical practitioners performing driver physicals are not required to demonstrate knowledge of the regulations governing driver medical qualifications or demonstrate aptitude in completing the U.S. DOT medical forms. Motor carrier and motor coach participants offered numerous anecdotal examples of drivers being cleared for duty despite the presence of a disqualifying condition. To address this concern, one participant noted that his company maintains an internal medical staff to review its drivers ’ medical results as a " double-check " to the official process. Research into means by which the medical personnel performing could be trained and/or certified was recommended.

Representatives from the medical community suggested that a medical professional ’ s perceived liability to legal action if they do not qualify a driver to operate a commercial vehicle also may be contributing to the number of commercial drivers being qualified erroneously. These participants indicated that FMCSA medical standards are general guidelines for the medical professionals, not " hard " criteria. As such, medical professionals believe they can be sued by individuals whom they disqualify if that individual finds another doctor to grant them medical clearance to operate a commercial vehicle. As such, participants recommended FMCSA research the legal standing of its medical standards and the possible liability of medical professionals that administer them.

Participants recommended the following research activities to address these concerns:

• Review existing CDL medical guidelines and ensure they are consistent with the most recent medical studies and guidelines of major medical organizations (World Health Organization, American Medical Association, etc.)

• Identify the safety benefits of properly conducting a CDL medical exam;

• Survey medical personnel to determine the extent of their knowledge regarding CDL medical requirements;

• Develop a standard curriculum to train medical personnel on how to conduct a proper CDL medical exam;

• Review FAA model for medical exams and identify any " best practices " that could be incorporated into FMCSA operations;

• Evaluate the feasibility of certifying medical personnel in administering CDL medical exams and developing a register of certified individuals; and

• Study the legal liability of a medical professional disqualifying a commercial driver from work for health reasons.

Route familiarity

A driver ’ s unfamiliarity with his/her route was noted as an underlying cause of commercial motor vehicle crashes by industry representatives and enforcement personnel. Participants suggested this factor often compounds other driver-related factors, such as speeding or making an illegal turn. To address this concern, it was recommended that FMCSA research technologies which better guide commercial motor vehicle drivers and warn them of dangerous driving conditions they may encounter.

Specifically, participants recommended the following activities be included in the FMCSA research agenda:

• Study the safety impact of integrating existing solutions (Highway Advisory Radio, 511, integrated routing systems) into commercial vehicle operations; and

• Develop the national infrastructure to monitor, in real-time, a commercial vehicle ’ s position and provide travel-related updates and advisories.

Driver training and testing

Participants agreed that commercial driver training is inconsistent and varies widely based on the source of training a driver receives. As such, motor carriers noted that possession of a commercial drivers license is not viewed as ensuring a driver ’ s qualification or ability to operate a commercial vehicle. This issue is a major hindrance to the industry ’ s efforts to hire safe and responsible drivers. To address these concerns, the stakeholders recommended FMCSA research methods to standardize commercial driver training. Stakeholders also noted that recurring training and testing for commercial drivers (to ensure their skills remain sharp throughout their careers) may be valuable and should be investigated. It also was recommended that commercial drivers ’ tests be expanded to verify the skills required to operate a commercial vehicle, including night vision, reaction time, and reflexes.

In regard to passenger vehicle drivers, all participants agreed that non-commercial drivers are the root cause of many commercial vehicle crashes. To address this issue, participants recommended educating passenger vehicle drivers on how to drive around commercial vehicles. Stakeholders recommended this work start with a review of the effectiveness of existing driver education programs (Share the Road Safely, mobile simulators, etc.). Participants at the San Diego and Austin forums viewed this evaluation as particularly important as both California and Texas have extensive driver outreach and education programs in place which have not been evaluated for effectiveness.

Specific recommendations in the driver training area included:

• Study the benefits of requiring expanded skills tests for commercial drivers, including the testing of a driver ’ s night vision, reaction time, and reflexes;

• Investigate the feasibility and benefits of developing continuous driver training for commercial and passenger vehicle drivers;

• Study the feasibility of testing passenger vehicle drivers on how to operate their vehicles around a commercial vehicle;

• Study the feasibility of developing a standardized commercial drivers ’ license training curriculum; and

• Study the effectiveness of passenger vehicle driver education programs on improving safety.

2.2   Recommended Vehicle-Related Research

While cited less often than driver-related factors, stakeholders agreed that vehicle-based research should be a key component of FMCSA ’ s research agenda. Participants noted that research in this area could improve the safety performance of the commercial vehicles and identify countermeasures to other crash factors, such as fatigue, roll-overs, and running off the road. Participants also noted that vehicle-based research could provide substantial security benefits, as well. Recommendations generally fell into two categories:

• Existing vehicle design and systems; and

• New vehicle design and systems.

Industry and manufacturer participants noted that a lack of funding is the primary obstacle to conducting vehicle-based research. Vehicle-related factors are reported infrequently in commercial motor vehicle crashes, which limits the government ’ s funding of research in this area. Stakeholders suggested that FMCSA, in conjunction with the National Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rectify this funding inequity, especially given the potential for research in this area to improve safety in other areas (i.e. driver-related factors, weather, etc.)

Existing systems

Safety advocates, industry representatives, and manufacturers recommended FMCSA research maximizing the safety performance of the current commercial motor vehicle design and suite of on-board technologies. This short-term research is believed to offer substantial long-term safety benefits without requiring a major redesigning of the commercial fleet. The research should be designed to ensure that all current systems are performing optimally. For instance, a participant noted that the current standard of 12 volts for electricity to power the brake lights on a commercial vehicle may be inadequate to illuminate the light fully - especially on longer combination vehicles or vehicles with old/dirty electrical contacts. This issue should be researched and the standard updated, if necessary. Participants recommended a variety of research activities in this area, including:

• Test the voltage reaching commercial motor vehicle brake lights (especially on longer combination vehicles) to ensure the lights are performing properly;

• Conduct a technical scan of existing on-board technologies that could have a security application;

• Conduct a scan of other countries ’ use of on-board technologies to identify " best practices " ;

• Evaluate truck design to balance a driver ’ s comfort versus making him/her too comfortable, which may contribute to fatigue;

• Conduct an operational test of rear fog lights on commercial vehicles;

• Review existing vehicle standards to ensure that they are still applicable to the modern commercial vehicle, such as the appropriateness of push-open windows on modern motor coaches;

• Identify the long-term benefits (or harm) to driver behavior associated with use of on-board safety technologies;

• Study the feasibility of providing in-cab notifications regarding weather advisories, congestion, parking, etc.;

• Conduct a case study on the US Army ’ s dynamic routing of loads around adverse weather conditions;

• Study the effectiveness of " smart signs " for weather-related information;

• Study the design and safety performance of 15-passenger vans;

• Extend Intelligent Vehicle Initiative research to the motor coach industry;

• Study the safety impact of transporting medical equipment (i.e. oxygen tanks and batteries for medical equipment) in the passenger compartment of a motor coach; and

• Study the adequacy of motor coach evacuation plans for disabled and/or wheelchair dependent riders.

New systems

As a complimentary initiative to the research in existing systems, stakeholders recommended FMCSA and other Federal agencies undertake a long-term research initiative to consider necessary large-scale redesigns to commercial vehicles and identify new on-board technologies that should be developed and deployed. Safety advocates and manufacturers recommended research into the fundamental aspects of commercial vehicle design, including lowering the commercial vehicles ’ center of gravity to prevent roll-overs and providing under-ride protection on the side of tank trailers.

Motor coach operators also noted the need to research the safety performance of the " push-open " emergency windows that currently are required on motor coaches. They believe that these windows are dangerous and allow for passengers to be ejected from the vehicle during a rollover event, while providing little safety benefits given the design of the modern motor coach. Research in this area also could investigate alternate window and emergency exit designs that are employed on motor coaches in other countries.

Enforcement personnel recommended that FMCSA study new vehicle-based opportunities to streamline the inspection process. They suggested that FMCSA investigate integrating on-board vehicle diagnostic systems with enforcement systems. This integrated system would allow roadside personnel to " plug-into " commercial vehicles or use wireless technology to assess the performance of on-board systems and equipment. An integrated system is thought to reduce the need for an officer to perform a physical inspection of the vehicle and make the inspection process more efficient.

Specific recommendations in this area included:

• Conduct an operational test on using on-board diagnostic systems to automate the commercial motor vehicle inspection process; the operational test also would identify ways to access the on-board system ’ s information, including " plugging into the vehicle " , wireless access, and/or Dedicated Short-Range Communications (DSRC);

• Investigate commercial vehicle redesign to lower the center of gravity;

• Coordinate with the Department of Energy ’ s video mirror project;

• Study the feasibility of developing in-cab electronic " rumble strips " to notify drivers of swerving or improper lane tracking;

• Study the applicability of infrared/vision-enhancement technology in commercial vehicles;

• Evaluate the safety impacts of developing side impact, under-ride protection for tank trucks;

• Research systems to require identification of the driver before enabling the commercial motor vehicle to start; and

• Conduct research on fully-automated vehicles.

2.3   Recommended Carrier/Shipper-Related Research

Motor carriers/motor coach companies and shippers/customers were perceived by participants to have both positive and negative influences on commercial vehicle safety. Stakeholders noted that the safety culture fostered by the commercial vehicle operators and the safety programs instituted by these companies may be the most effective means to improve commercial vehicle safety. Conversely, motor carriers and safety advocates identified numerous ways in which carriers and shippers can undermine commercial vehicle safety. These factors include:

• Demanding/accepting unreasonable and illegal shipping schedules;

• Long waiting lines at shipper facilities;

• Employing unqualified commercial drivers; and

• Poor working conditions.

To support the positive influences and combat the negative, participants recommended FMCSA conduct research in the following areas:

• Safety management programs;

• Shipper liability; and

• Improved regulation and enforcement.

Safety management programs

A variety of safety management programs have been implemented by commercial vehicle operators. Industry representatives noted their companies ’ had implemented roving safety vans to monitor their drivers ’ behavior, aggressive human resource policies to ensure that only qualified drivers were hired, and performance-based driver reviews. The design and implementation of these programs, however, has been inconsistent across the industry. Accordingly, participants recommended that FMCSA research " best practices " in carrier-based driver management programs and communicate this information to the industry as a whole. The industry representatives also recommended that FMCSA research guidelines to help them identify " bad " drivers before they are hired. For instance, motor carriers noted their need for guidance on how many violations over a given time period makes a driver " good " or " bad " ; is a driver ’ s frequent job changes ( " churning " ) a safety concern, etc.

Specific recommendations included:

• Study the effectiveness of carrier incentive programs (awards, bonuses, etc.) in modifying commercial driver behavior and improving safety;

• Evaluate a driver ’ s " churning " as an indicator of safety performance;

• Evaluate the behavioral impact of monitoring a driver ’ s performance through on-board sensors;

• Develop recommended hiring criteria to assist motor carrier and motor coach companies identify " good " drivers - " how many violations is too many? " ;

• Study the safety impact of commercial vehicle operators employing roving safety vans to monitor their drivers ’ on-the-road performance; and

• Investigate the development of sanctions against companies that refuse a request regarding a former employee ’ s driving history.

Shipper liability

Stakeholders noted that despite their potential impact on commercial motor vehicle safety, the shippers of freight remain largely unregulated. Stakeholders stated that the shippers ’ ability to find alternative transportation services often pressures commercial vehicle operators to accept shippers ’ unreasonable/illegal scheduling demands. Nearly all participants recounted examples of this happening. Educating shippers on reasonable/legal shipping requirements was recommended as a necessary step in addressing this concern. Realizing that education alone would not be sufficient in solving this problem, stakeholders also recommended FMCSA research methods by which enforcement/penalties could be extended to the shipper community. Specific recommendations in this area included:

• Document shippers ’ influence on motor carrier and motor coach operations;

• Assess the feasibility of requiring owners of intermodal chasses to obtain US DOT numbers. This would allow violations associated with a chasses to be assigned to the equipment ’ s owner, not the carrier " pulling " the equipment;

• Conduct a scan of other countries ’ models of shared safety liability between carriers and shippers – a participant noted Australia as an example;

• Identify " best practices " for carrier/shipper interactions;

• Identify electronic methods to make the supply-chain more efficient, including freight posting services, shared resources, etc.; and

• Conduct feasibility analysis for creating a hot-line for motor carriers/motor coach operators to report shippers making unreasonable scheduling demands/requests.

Improved regulation and enforcement

While participants agreed that corporate policies greatly impact commercial vehicle safety, they acknowledged the need for aggressive enforcement of the safety regulations. In particular, stakeholders expressed concern regarding the safety performance of new motor carriers. Participants suggested that new entrants be required to demonstrate their knowledge of safety regulations before they are given permanent operating authority. Participants also recommended FMCSA institute rules by which corporate officers of commercial vehicle operators placed out of business for safety violations be precluded from being involved in the industry. To address support for both of these recommendations, participants suggested FMCSA research an augmented new entrant program with additional enforcement capabilities.

Stakeholders also recommended that FMCSA research alternate enforcement models to enforcing safety regulations. Participants agreed that FMCSA is not capable of inspecting the operations of the over 600,000 active interstate motor carriers. As such, stakeholders recommended that FMCSA identify new approaches to enforcing its safety regulations, given the number and distribution of motor carriers across the country. In particular, participants recommended that FMCSA investigate how other Federal agencies responsible for numerous small operations enforce their regulations. For instance, FMCSA could evaluate how the United States Coast Guard and Maritime Administration enforce the maritime regulations on the numerous charter boat and water taxi operations in the United States. Specific recommendations in this area included:

• Study the feasibility of requiring new entrants to pass a proficiency exam before applying for operating authority and/or being granted full operating authority;

• Study the safety impact of requiring new entrants to acquire training in Federal safety regulations and " best practices " ;

• Study the safety benefits and feasibility of requiring bi-annual terminal audits for all interstate motor carriers;

• Assess the safety differences between contract and company drivers; and

• Study regulatory methods to ensure that corporate officials from a firm ordered out of service by the government are not allowed to reconstitute their company under another name and U.S. DOT number.

2.4   Recommended Roadside/Environmental-Related Research

Stakeholders had far fewer suggestions regarding the roadside/environmental area than the other discussion topics. Many of the suggestions related to this topic involved vehicle-based countermeasures to weather conditions, which were detailed in the vehicle-based section of this document. Participants did recommend research in two additional areas:

• Roadway design; and

• State/local ordinances.

Roadway design

A representative from one safety advocacy group suggested the nation ’ s infrastructure on which commercial vehicles operate, is largely inadequate to serve these heavy vehicles. As evidence of this, participants noted AASHTO ’ s " Green Book " which guides the design of the nation ’ s roadways, explicitly states that its recommendations are not sufficient for commercial vehicles. (Note: The " Green Book-- A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets " is a publication of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), which contains the latest design practices and the standard of highway geometric design currently in universal use.) This is a serious safety concern as commercial motor vehicles comprise an increasing number of the nation ’ s vehicle traffic. Further, industry representatives noted that the need to maximize capacity on the nation ’ s roads in order to combat congestion has dictated narrower lanes in some urban areas, which are more difficult for commercial vehicles to navigate and deserves investigation. Stakeholders recommended that FMCSA research the following, in order to address this issue:

• Determine the feasibility of including commercial vehicle-related factors in " Green Book " ;

• Study the safety impact of narrower lanes on commercial motor vehicles;

• Study the safety impact of State ’ s implementation of rumble strips in lane dividers; and

• Study the safety impact of creating truck-only lanes and truck-exclusion lanes.

State and local ordinances

Stakeholders also noted that commercial motor vehicle safety is being adversely affected by some State and local ordinances. Stakeholders were mixed on the safety impact of speed differentials between passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles. Some participants viewed these laws as effective, while the industry representatives and many enforcement personnel viewed them as dangerous because they force commercial vehicles to become slower moving " obstacles " on the roads.

Motor coach participants also noted municipalities " anti-idling " as a possible safety concern. These laws, designed to improve air quality by prohibiting motor coaches from idling for more than two minutes while parked, often forces motor coaches to drive around congested urban areas as they need to keep their engines running to operate their air conditioning and other " customer-oriented " systems. Both of these topics were recommended for further study.

3.0   General FMCSA Recommendations

In addition to the specific research recommendations detailed in Section 2.0 of this document, stakeholders also provided FMCSA with general feedback on the agency ’ s research program and enforcement activities. These recommendations included:

• Improving commercial vehicle data sources;

• Researching the agency ’ s staffing levels;

• Improving the agency ’ s " follow-through " ; and

• Developing a knowledge management system.

Each of these recommendations are detailed below.

3.1 Improve Commercial Vehicle Data Sources

Stakeholders recommended FMCSA work to improve commercial vehicle data sources, including demographic data sources, and crash reporting systems. Stakeholders noted that basic information related to the commercial motor vehicle industry is not known. For instance, the number of active motor coach operations in the United States is an estimate based on survey results - not a known fact. Further, the number of active commercial vehicle drivers also is an approximation. This lack of basic demographic data makes it very difficult for FMCSA and its safety partners to understand fully the safety problem, its root causes, and possible solutions. This issue was raised as a particular concern to the motor coach operators who would like a more accurate accounting of their industry, as well as safety advocates and academics that research commercial vehicle industries.

Participants also recommended that the nation ’ s crash reporting system be expanded to include new crash factors that have been identified as significant to commercial vehicle safety. These data elements could include a driver ’ s medical condition(s) before the accident, length of time that a driver involved in a crash has possessed his/her license, etc. Stakeholders universally praised the agency ’ s Large Truck Crash Causation study and recommended key factors identified from that study also be incorporated into the crash reporting system. Stakeholders also recommended that the crash reporting system be expanded to include the vehicle identification number of vehicles involved in a crash be captured. This information would facilitate future analyses by allowing the type of vehicle involved in the crash to be identified easily.

In addition to improving existing data sources, all stakeholders agreed that FMCSA should conduct a series of " baseline " research studies to develop new data sources to serve as the foundation for future commercial vehicle safety research. Specifically, participants identified a need for data on crash factors which increase the risk for being involved in a crash and which factors are most often associated with fatal crashes, as opposed to injury or property damage-only crashes. To satisfy this analytical need, participants recommended FMCSA conduct a naturalistic driver study to identify typical driving habits of commercial drivers and a case control study to analyze the risks associated with certain discreet driver behaviors.

Stakeholders specifically recommended that FMCSA investigate the following:

• Development of an accurate understanding of the motor coach industry;

• Development of an accurate accounting for commercial drivers licenses;

• Augment nation ’ s crash reporting system with additional crash factors that have been proven as significant to commercial motor vehicle safety;

• Augment nation ’ s crash reporting system to differentiate between different types of buses (motor coach, school, transit, etc.);

• Augment nation ’ s crash reporting system to capture vehicle identification numbers (VIN) on all vehicles involved in crashes to allow for additional analyses;

• Conduct a naturalistic driving behavior study to identify " typical " driver behavior; and

• Conduct a case control study to identify the safety risks associated with specific driving behaviors.

3.2 Research the Agency ’ s Staffing Levels

To ensure that FMCSA ’ s resources are aligned with its organizational objectives, stakeholders recommended FMCSA conduct an internal analysis of its staffing levels. In particular, several participants, representing a variety of interests, suggested FMCSA investigate why so many Federal and State resources are dedicated to vehicle-related enforcement activities when crash statistics and the majority of safety experts indicate that driver-related factors are disproportionately responsible for commercial vehicle crashes. Stakeholders recommended this review consider both the need for additional staff members and the recasting of existing resources to new areas. Participants also recommended that FMCSA analyze its staffing levels against similarly tasked Federal agencies as a benchmark for necessary funding/staffing levels.

3.3 Improve Agency ’ s " Follow-Through "

Participants recommended FMCSA improve its " follow-through " on research and policy initiatives. Several stakeholders expressed some frustration with the forum ’ s objective to identify new research topics when results/recommendations from past research initiatives have not been implemented. For instance, participants noted that FMCSA should investigate how to encourage the deployment of proven technologies from the initial round of intelligent vehicle initiative operational tests before research on additional technologies begins. This was a particular concern of the vehicle manufacturers that attended.

Likewise, stakeholders suggested that existing regulations should be enforced more aggressively before additional safety rules are developed. Stakeholders specifically noted traffic laws as an area which would yield considerable safety benefit with additional enforcement resources. Participants noted that the driver-related factors most often associated with commercial vehicle crashes (speeding, following improperly, improper turn, etc.) related to commercial motor vehicle crashes could be addressed through enhanced enforcement activity. Motor coach representatives emphasized this point by indicating their preference that enforcement personnel stop all motor coaches seen speeding because this behavior is perceived as such a critical safety concern.

3.4 Develop a Knowledge Management System

Participants indicated a need for a central electronic knowledge management system that would allow those interested in commercial motor vehicle safety to monitor the ongoing research in the field. The diversity among the forum participants was indicative of the wide variety of public and private stakeholders involved in commercial vehicle research. These stakeholders include industry associations, individual motor carriers, safety advocacy groups, State and local departments of transportation, State enforcement agencies, and academics. At the Federal government, FMCSA, the Federal Highway Administration, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Energy all conduct research related to commercial vehicle safety.

The diversity and amount of research being conducted makes it difficult for all stakeholders, including FMCSA personnel, to continually monitor and leverage the latest research. For instance, one participant noted that the Department of Energy (DOE) is conducting an operational test of video mirrors on commercial vehicles as part of a test to improve commercial vehicle fuel economy. Most stakeholders were unaware of the test and the potential for DOE to advocate such a new concept for the industry. The recommended system would allow stakeholders to post their existing research projects, highlight results, and provide contact for other interested parties. The system also would allow FMCSA to remain current with the cutting-edge research being conducted in the field.

Appendix A

Office of Research and Technology Stakeholder Forums ’ Registrants

[FMCSA Truck and Bus Logo]

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Research and Technology Stakeholder Forums San Diego, CA February 6, 2003 List of Registrants

John Holt

Holt Corporation

4175 W. Sierra Madre #109

Fresno, CA 93722

Phone: 559-271-4658

E-mail: jholt@hoc-loc.com

Jim Misener

University of California Berkeley PATH Program

Richmond Field Station, Bldg 452

1357 S. 46th St

Richmond, CA 94804-4648

Phone: 510-231-5651

E-mail: misener@path.berkeley.edu

Mark Jensen

SAIC 10260 Campus Point Drive, M/S K-2

San Diego, CA 92121-1578

Phone: (916) 654-9390

E-mail: jensenm@saic.com  

Jose Perez

California DOT-HQ

Department of Research & Innovation

Sacramento, CA

Phone: (916) 654-9390

E-mail: Jose_d_perez@dot.ca.gov

Bruce Kynaston

California Highway Patrol

444 North 3rd Street, #310,

Sacramento 95814

Phone: 916-445-1865

E-mail: BKynaston@chp.ca.gov  

John Sallak

Oregon Trucking Association

4005 S.E. Naef Road

Portland, OR 97267

Phone: 888-293-0005

E-mail: sallak@ortrucking.org

Richard Leimbach

California Trucking Association

3251 Beacon Boulevard

West Sacramento, CA 95691

Phone: 916-373-3639

E-mail: rleimbach@caltrux.org  

Dana Sampson California Highway Patrol

444 North 3rd Street, #310,

Sacramento 95814

E-mail: DSampson@chp.ca.gov

Art Levario

Arizona Motor Trucking Association

2111 W. McDowell Road

Phoenix, AZ 85009

Phone: 602-252-7559, ext. 2.

E-mail: artlevario2@qwest.net .  

Timothy Sharkey

Louisiana State Police

P.O. Box 66614 Box A-26

Baton Rouge, LA 70896-6614

Phone: 225-925-6113

E-mail: tsharkey@dps.state.la.us

Bradley Tullier

Louisiana State Police

P.O. Box 66614 Box A-26

Baton Rouge, LA 70896-6614

Phone: 225-925-6113

E-mail: btullier@dps.state.la.us  

Derrick Vercoe

Qualcomm Inc.

5775 Morehouse Drive

San Diego, CA 92121

Phone: 858-658-5130

E-mail: dvercoe@qualcomm.com

FMCSA Personnel

Doug McKelvey

FMCSA

Office of Research and Technology

400 Virginia Avenue, Suite 600

Washington, DC 20024

Phone: 202-385-2361

E-mail: doug.mckelvey@fmcsa.dot.gov  

Jeff Loftus

FMCSA

Office of Research and Technology

400 Virginia Avenue, Suite 600

Washington, DC 20024

Phone: 202-385-2363

E-mail: jeff.loftus@fmcsa.dot.gov

Mickael Gouweloos

FMCSA

California State Division

980 Ninth Street, Suite 450

Sacramento CA,   95814-2724

Phone (916) 498-5050

E-mail: Mickael.Gouweloos@fmcsa.dot.gov  

Support Team

Steve Capecci

Cambridge Systematics

150 CambridgePark Drive, Suite 4000

Cambridge, MA 02140

Phone: 617-354-0167

E-mail: scapecci@camsys.com  

Shelley Feese

Cambridge Systematics

35565 Millville Road

Middleburg, VA 20117

Phone: 540 687 8605

E-mail : sfeese@camsys.com

Roan Bennett

Cambridge Systematics

150 CambridgePark Drive, Suite 4000

Cambridge, MA 02140

Phone: 617-354-0167

E-mail: mailto:rebennett@camsys.com

[FMCSA Truck and Bus Logo]

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Research and Technology Stakeholder Forums

Austin, TX

February 12, 2003 List of Registrants

Michael Bomba

The University of Texas at Austin

Center for Transportation Research

3208 Red River

Austin, TX 78705

Phone: 512-232-3074

E-mail: bomba@uts.cc.utexas.edu  

Alex Guariento

Greyhound Lines, Inc.

350 N. Saint Paul Street

Dallas, TX 75201

Phone: 214-849-8228

E-mail: aguariento@greyhound.com

Dennis Clapper

The ROHO Group

100 Florida Ave.  

Belleville, IL 62221

Phone: 618-277-9150 ext. 2413

E-mail: dennis@therohogroup.com  

Alberto Puente

Greyhound Lines, Inc.

350 N. Saint Paul Street

Dallas, TX 75201

Phone: 214-849-8228

E-mail: apuente@greyhound.com

Bill England

AIG Consultants, Inc.

8144 Walnut Hill Lane, 13 th floor

Dallas, TX 75231

Phone: 214-932-2260

E-mail: bill.england@aig.com  

Bill Reichert

Texas DOT

125 E 11 th Street

Austin, TX 78701

Phone: 512-416-3172

E-mail: wreicher@dot.state.tx.us

Les Findeisen

Texas Motor Transportation Association

700 E 11 th Street

Austin, TX 78701

Phone: 512-478-2541

E-mail: les@tmta.com  

Mark Rogers

Texas Department of Public Safety

PO Box 4087

Austin, TX 78773-0520

Phone: 512-424-2775

E-mail: mark.rogers@txdps.state.tx.us

Maggie Gillean

Texas Department of Public Safety

PO Box 4087

Austin, TX 78773-3001

Phone: 512-424-5657

E-mail: maggie.gillean@txdps.state.tx.us  

Dick Schnacke

TransCore Corporation

3109 Fallow Circle

Flower Mound, TX 75028

Phone: 972-874-9266

E-mail: dick.schnacke@transcore.com

Alexei Tsyganov PhD

The University of Texas at Austin

Center for Transportation Research

3208 Red River

Austin, TX 78705

Phone: 512-232-3076

E-mail: tsyganov@mail.utexas.edu

David Willis

Texas A & M University

Texas Transportation Insitute

3135 TAMU

College Station, TX 77843-3135

Phone: 979-862-6707

E-mail: dwillis@tamu.edu

FMCSA Personnel

Dr. Martin Walker

FMCSA

Office of Research and Technology

400 Virginia Avenue, Suite 600

Washington, DC 20024

Phone: 202-385-2364

E-mail: martin.walker@fmcsa.dot.gov  

Jeff Loftus

FMCSA

Office of Research and Technology

400 Virginia Avenue, Suite 600

Washington, DC 20024

Phone: 202-385-2363

E-mail: jeff.loftus@fmcsa.dot.gov

Joel Hiatt

FMSCA Southern Service Center

1800 Century Boulevard, N.E., Suite 1700

Atlanta, GA 30345-3220

Phone: 404-327-7400

E-mail: joel.hiatt@fmcsa.dot.gov  

David Martin

FMCSA

Texas State Division

826 Federal Building

Austin, TX 78701

Phone: 512-536-5980

E-mail: david.martin@fmsca.dot.gov

Support Team

Shelley Feese

Cambridge Systematics

35565 Millville Road

Middleburg, VA 20117

Phone: 540 687 8605

E-mail : sfeese@camsys.com  

Roan Bennett

Cambridge Systematics

150 CambridgePark Drive, Suite 4000

Cambridge, MA 02140

Phone: 617-354-0167

E-mail: mailto:rebennett@camsys.com  

[FMCSA Truck and Bus Logo]

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Research and Technology Stakeholder Forums

Washington, DC

February 20, 2003 List of Registrants

Linda Bauer Darr

Vice President, Policy & External Affairs

American Bus Association

1100 New York Ave, #1050 Washington , DC 20005

Phone: 202-218-7222

E-mail: ldarr@buses.org  

Ron Knipling

Sr. Research Scientist

Virginia Tech Transportation Inst.

7054 Haycook Road Falls Church , VA 22043

Phone: 703-538-8439

E-mail: rknipling@vtti.vt.edu

Barry C. DeRoze

Sr. Staff Director, Research and Technology

Consolidated Safety Services,

Transportation Safety Services, Inc

10335 Democracy Lane, Suite 202 Fairfax , VA 22030

Phone: 703-691-4612

E-mail: bderoze@consolidatedsafety.com  

Richard Clemente

Director of Safety & Health Programs

Truckload Carriers Association

2200 Mill Road Alexandria , VA 22314

Phone: 703-838-8847

E-mail: rclemente@truckload.org

Art Greenberg

Battelle Memorial Institute

E-mail: greenbea@battelle.org  

Bill Knee

Oak Ridge National Lab -

National Transportation Research Center

2360 Cherahala Blvd Knoxville , TN 37932

Phone: 865-946-1300

E-mail: kneehe@ornl.gov

Gerald P. Krueger, Ph.D., CPE

The Wexford Group International

8381 Old Courthouse Road, Suite 300 Vienna , VA 22182

E-mail: gkrueger@thewexfordgroup.com  

Brenda Lantz

Program Director

NDSU Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute Transportation Safety Systems Center

555 Zang Street, Suite 190 Lakewood , CO 80228

Phone: 969-5140 x 329

E-mail: Brenda.Lantz@ndsu.nodak.edu

Patrick Leonardi

Director of Risk Manag-ement

Central States Trucking Co /

Illinois Trucking Association

476 Thomas Drive Bensenville , IL 60106

Phone: 630-595-9876 x 3060

E-mail: pleonardi@cstruck.com  

Kevin R. Lewis

CDL Safety Director

American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators

4301 Wilson Blvd. Suite 400 Arlington , VA 22203

Phone: 703-908-2823

E-mail: KLewis@aamva.org

John A. Perfetti

COO

Perfetti Trucking Inc

E-mail: johnalan@perfettitrucking.com  

Robert G. Rothstein

Vice President and General Counsel

American Moving and Storage Association

1611 Duke St. Alexandria , VA 22314

Phone: 703-683-7410

E-mail: brothstein@moving.org

Tom Rule

Vice President of Operations

Logex, Inc.

Post Office Box 130 Hacketts-town , NJ 7840

E-mail: Tom.Rule@Logexcorp.com  

John H. Siebert

Project Manager

OOIDA Foundation, Inc.

#1 NW OOIDA Dr. Grain Valley , MO 64029

Phone: 816-229-5791 x 607

E-mail: jsiebert@ooida.com

Don Siekerman

Safety Director

Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association

910 Linda Lane Camp Hill , PA 17011

Phone: 717-761-7122

E-mail: dsiekerman@pmta.org  

Gerry Donaldson, PhD

Senior Research Director

Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety

750 First Street, NE

Suite 901

Washington , DC 20002

Phone: 202-408-1711

Jerryl Trammell

Chief Information Officer / Chief Technology Officer

District Department of Transportation (DDOT)

2000 14th Street NW Washington , DC

Phone: 202-671-2626

E-mail: jerryl.trammell@dc.gov  

Tom Urbanik

Professor

The University of Tennessee

219-B Perkins Hall Knoxville , TN 37996

Phone: 865-974-7709

E-mail: turbanik@utk.edu

Steven C. Webb Sr., M.B.A., CPIM, C.P.M

Director

Mid-Atlantic Transportation and Logistics Institute

One Seahawk Drive North East , MD 21901

Phone: 410-287-1093

E-mail: swebb@cecilcc.edu  

Richard A. Williams

President

Nighthawk Express Inc.

7295 Forrest Rd. Warrenton , VA 20187

Phone: 540-351-0381

E-mail: Rawtrk@aol.com

Tom Yager

Safety Data Systems Manager

Traffic Safety Analysis Systems

& Services, Inc. (T-SASS)

1213 Stringtown Rd. Grove City , OH 43123

Phone: 614-855-4541

E-mail: tyager@tsass.com

Skip Yeakel

Principal Engineer - Advanced Engineering

Volvo Trucks North America

7900 National Service Road Greensboro , NC 27409

Phone: 336-393-2825

E-mail: skip.yeakel@volvo.com

FMCSA Personnel

Deborah M. Freund

FMCSA

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE

Washington, DC 20590-0001

Phone: 202-366-5541

E-mail: Deborah.Freund@fmcsa.dot.gov

Martin Walker

FMCSA

Office of Research and Technology

400 Virginia Avenue, Suite 600

Washington, DC 20024

Phone: 202-385- 2364

E-mail: martin.walker@fmcsa.dot.gov

Jeff Loftus

FMCSA

Office of Research and Technology

400 Virginia Avenue, Suite 600

Washington, DC 20024

Phone: 202-385-2363

E-mail: jeff.loftus@fmcsa.dot.gov  

Support Team

Roan Bennett

Cambridge Systematics

150 CambridgePark Drive, Suite 4000

Cambridge, MA 02140

Phone: 617-354-0167

E-mail: rbennett@camsys.com

Steve Capecci

Cambridge Systematics

150 CambridgePark Drive, Suite 4000

Cambridge, MA 02140

Phone: 617-354-0167

E-mail: scapecci@camsys.com

Shelley Feese

Cambridge Systematics

35565 Millville Road

Middleburg, VA 20117

Phone: 540 687 8605

E-mail : sfeese@camsys.com

[FMCSA Truck and Bus Logo]

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Research and Technology Stakeholder Forums Washington, DC

February 21, 2003

List of Registrants

Yusuf Aden

Traffic Engineer Tech

District Department of Transportation (DC DOT)

2000 14th St N.W

7th Floor

Washington , DC 20009

Phone: 202-671-1348

E-mail: yusuf.aden@dc.gov  

John C. Allen

Vice President

Battelle

901 D. St. SW

Washington , DC 20024

Phone: 202-646-5225

E-mail: allenj@battelle.org

John L. Campbell, Ph.D.

Senior Research Scientist

Battelle Human Factors Transportation Center

4500 Sand Point Way NE, Suite 100

Seattle , WA 98072

Phone: 206-528-3254

E-mail: campjohn@battelle.org  

Guang X. Chen

Senior Service Fellow

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

1095 Willowdale Road, MS/H1811,

Morgantown , WV 26505

Phone: 304-285-5995

E-mail: gdc0@cdc.gov

Joseph H. Foster

Special Assistant to the Secretary

for Motor Carrier Policy

Maryland Department of Transportation

P.O. Box 548

Hanover , MD 21076

Phone: 410-865-1097

E-mail: jfoster@mdot.state.md.us  

Sunny Gyani

Traffic Engineer Tech

District Department of Transportation

(DC DOT)

2001 14th St N.W 7th Floor

Washington , DC 20009

Phone: 202-671-0581

E-mail: sunny.gyani@dc.gov

Cassandra Hanley

Senior Associate

The O ' Gara Company

1250 24th Street, NW

Washington , DC 20037

Phone: 202-835-1680

E-mail: chanley@ogara.com  

Dr. Natalie P. Hartenbaum, MD, MPH

OccuMedix and ACOEM ' s Board of Directors - American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

1600 Whitehouse Road

Maple Glen , PA 19002

Phone: 215-646-2205

E-mail: natah@comcast.net

Matthew S. Hebb

Deputy Managing Director, Contractors Division

American Road & Transportation Builders Association

1010 Massach-usetts Avenue, NW

Washington , DC 20001

Phone: 202-289-4434 x 114

E-mail: mhebb@artba.org  

Lee Husting, Ph.D., M.P.H.

Chief, Intervention and Evaluation Section

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

1096 Willowdale Road, MS/H1811,

Morgantown , WV 26505

Phone: 304-285-5942

E-mail: eih8@cdc.gov

Garey Jones

AAMVA/EDS

Arlington , VA

Phone: 703-522-2093

direct: 703-908-5872

E-mail: Gjones@aamva.org  

Marci Kenney

Director, Program Development and Evaluation

FHWA RD & T

Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center

6300 Georgetown Pike

McLean , VA 22101

Phone: 202-493-3117

E-mail: Marci.Kenney@igate.fhwa.dot.gov

Richard Meehan

Team Leader Department Of Energy

Oak Ridge Operations Office

Oak Ridge , TN 37832

Phone: 865-576-2598

E-mail: meehanrw@oro.doe.gov  

Patrick Ogbeide

Traffic Engineer

District Department of Transportation

(DC DOT)

2001 14th St N.W, 7th Floor

Washington , DC 20009

Phone: 202-671-2363

E-mail: patrick.ogbeide@dc.gov

Nick Owens

SAIC

8301 Greensboro Drive

McLean , VA 22102

Phone: 703-676-2408

E-mail: NICHOLAS.D.OWENS@saic.com  

Cristobal Rodriguez

Statistical Assistant

District Department of Transportation

(DC DOT)

2001 14th St N.W, 7th Floor

Washington , DC 20009

Phone: 202-671-0685

E-mail: cristobal.rodriguez@dc.gov

William Schaefer

Staff Engineer

Truck Manufacturers Association

1225 New York Avenue, NW Suite 300

Washington, DC 20005-6156

willschaefer@earthlink.net  

Richard P. Schweitzer, PLLC

National Private Truck Council

1776 K Street, NW Suite 800

Washington , DC 20006

Phone: 202-223-3040

E-mail: rpschweitzer@rpslegal.com

Joe Thompson

Client Delivery Manager

EDS

13900 Lincoln Park Drive, Suite 200

Herndon , VA 20171

Phone: 703-742-1267

E-mail: Joe.thompson@EDS.com

Randy Walker

National Transportation Research Center

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

2360 Cherhala Blvd.

Knoxville , TN 37932

Phone: 865-946-1270

E-mail: walkerrm1@ornl.gov

Daniel L. Whitten

100 East Hamilton Ave.

Silver Spring , MD 20901

Phone: 301-608-0819

E-mail: danwhit@prodigy.net  

Andy Wilson

Project Manager, State and Local Solutions

ACS State and Local Solutions

7529 Standish Place #2000

Rockville , MD 20855

Phone: 240-314-1864

E-mail: andy.wilson@acs-inc.com

FMCSA Personnel

Jeff Loftus

FMCSA

Office of Research and Technology

400 Virginia Avenue, Suite 600

Washington, DC 20024

Phone: 202-385-2363

E-mail: jeff.loftus@fmcsa.dot.gov  

Martin Walker

FMCSA

Office of Research and Technology

400 Virginia Avenue, Suite 600

Washington, DC 20024

Phone: 202-385- 2364

E-mail: martin.walker@fmcsa.dot.gov

Support Team

Roan Bennett

Cambridge Systematics

150 CambridgePark Drive, Suite 4000

Cambridge, MA 02140

Phone: 617-354-0167

E-mail: rbennett@camsys.com

Shelley Feese

Cambridge Systematics

35565 Millville Road

Middleburg, VA 20117

Phone: 540 687 8605

E-mail: sfeese@camsys.com

Steve Capecci

Cambridge Systematics

150 CambridgePark Drive, Suite 4000

Cambridge, MA 02140

Phone: 617-354-0167

scapecci@camsys.com

[FMCSA Truck and Bus Logo]

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Research and Technology Stakeholder Forums Motor Coach Session

Washington, DC March 19, 2003 List of Registrants

Deny Bertrand

Regulatory Compliance Manager & Product Engineer

Prvost Car Inc.

E-mail: deny.bertrand@volvo.com  

Christopher M Crean

Director of Safety/CDS

Peter Pan Bus lines, Inc

1776 Main Street

Springfield , M A 0 1103

Phone: 1-800-237 8747, Extension 1432

E-mail: chris@peterpanbus.com

Matthew Daecher

Consultant

Daecher Consulting Group

3780 Trindle Rd.

Camp Hill , PA 17011

Phone: (717) 975-9190

E-mail: mmatt@safetyteam.com  

Linda Bauer Darr

Director Safety and Regulatory Programs

American Bus Association

111 New York Ave, NW Ste. 1050

Washington , DC 20005

Phone: 800-283-2877

E-mail: ldarr@buses.org

Gary Feuerberg, PH.D.

Bureau of Transportation Statistics

U.S. DOT

E-mail: gary.feuerberg@bts.gov  

Albert Flemming

Al Fleming Trolley Tours Bus Company

E-mail: albertfleming@aol.com

Alex Guariento

Director, Safety

Greyhound Lines, Inc.

350 North Saint Paul Street

Dallas , TX 75201

Phone: 214. 849. 8227

E-mail: aguarie@greyhound.com  

Bill Mahorney

Director of Safety and Regulatory Programs

American Bus Association

110 New York Ave, NW Ste. 1050

Washington , DC 20005

E-mail: wmahorney@buses.org

Charlie Neal Chief Operating Officer

First Priority Tours Inc

4203 Forrestville Rd.

Mitchellville , MD 20747

Phone: 301 568-3500

E-mail: FirstPrioCNeal@aol.com  

Steve Parker

Operations Manager

Eyre Bus Service

Phone: 410-442-1330

301-854-6600, Extension: 3214

E-mail: Stevep@eyre.com

Ken Presley

Vice President,

Service Insurance Agency, Inc.

6201 Fairview Road, Suite 200

Charlotte , NC 28210

Phone: 1- 800-647-3605

E-mail: ken@serviceins.com  

Rick Richards

Senior Vice President / CIO

Greyhound Lines, Inc.

15110 North Dallas Parkway

Dallas , TX 75248

Phone: 972-789-7191

E-mail: cio@greyhound.com

Meg Sweeney, PhD

Office of Advanced Studies

Bureau of Transportation Statistics

U.S. DOT 400 Seventh Street, SW

Washington, DC 20590

Phone: 202-366-3582 Fax: 202-493-0568 E-mail: margaret.sweeney@bts.dot.gov  

Brad Watkins

Manager - Safety & Compliance

Coach USA

One Riverway, Ste 500

Houston , TX 77056

Phone: 713-860-1791

E-mail: brad.watkins@coachusa.com

FMCSA Personnel

Jeff Loftus

FMCSA

Office of Research and Technology

400 Virginia Avenue, Suite 600

Washington, DC 20024

Phone: 202-385-2363

E-mail: jeff.loftus@fmcsa.dot.gov  

Doug McKelvey

FMCSA

Office of Research and Technology

400 Virginia Avenue, Suite 600

Washington, DC 20024

Phone: 202-385-2361

E-mail: doug.mckelvey@fmcsa.dot.gov

Support Team

Steve Capecci

Cambridge Systematics

150 CambridgePark Drive, Suite 4000

Cambridge, MA 02140

Phone: 617-354-0167

E-mail: scapecci@camsys.com  

Shelley Feese

Cambridge Systematics

35565 Millville Road

Middleburg, VA 20117

Phone: 540 687 8605

E-mail : sfeese@camsys.com

Appendix B

Office of Research and Technology Stakeholder Forums ’ Agendas

[FMCSA Truck and Bus Logo]

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Research and Technology Stakeholder Forums DoubleTree Club Hotel 1515 Hotel Circle South San Diego, CA February 6, 2003 9 AM – 4 PM

Forum Objectives:

• Provide an overview of FMCSA ’ s Research and Technology Program

• Discuss characteristics associated with commercial motor vehicle safety

• Discuss research and technology opportunities designed to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity

• Identify key research questions that FMCSA should investigate

Workshop Outcomes:

• Understanding of FMCSA Research and Technology Program

• Understanding of characteristics associated with large truck safety, security and productivity

• List of research topics that FMCSA should investigate in FY2005 and beyond

The following agenda is broken out by time, agenda item, objectives (also known as purpose), and outcomes. Please note that all session times are approximate and that the length of each session will be determined by the participants during the session.

From 9:00 – 9:10 AM will be the welcome/introduction part of the forum. This will be performed by Doug McKelvey of FMCSA and Jeff Loftus, also of FMCSA. The purpose of this activity is to welcome the participants to the Forum, outline the day ’ s general objectives as well as the specific session objectives, and make introductions. The expected outcomes of this activity are to set the tone for the day, with objectives and expectations being clearly outlined, and ensure that each participant understands his/her role and what their expected contribution to the day ’ s discussion will be.

From 9:10 – 9:45 AM will be session 1, a presentation entitled " Overview of FMCSA Research and Technology Activities. " The purpose of this session is to provide the group with an overview of FMCSA ’ s research and technology activities, including objectives, methodology and organization, as well as an overview of the Forum ’ s roundtable format and anticipated outcomes. The expected outcomes of this activity are to obtain a general understanding of the role of research and technology in FMCSA, the agency ’ s R & T methodology, and a clear understanding of the forum ’ s desired outcome.

From 9:45 – 10:45 AM will be session 2, a roundtable discussion on driver-related factors. The objectives of this activity are to identify the commercial vehicle driver-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity, as well as to identify the passenger vehicle driver-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity. The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of driver-related topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 10:45 – 11:00 AM will be a break.

From 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM will be session 3, another round table discussion on vehicle-related factors. The objectives of this activity are to identify the vehicle-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity. The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of vehicle-related topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 12:00 – 1:00 PM will be lunch.

From 1:00 – 2:00 PM will be session 4, a roundtable discussion on carrier-related factors. The objective of this activity will be to identify the carrier-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity.   The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of carrier-related topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 2:00 – 2:45 PM will be session 5, a roundtable discussion on roadside/environment-related factors. The objective of this activity will be to identify roadside/environmental-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity.   The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of roadside/environmental-related topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 2:45 – 3:00 PM will be a break.

From 3:00 – 3:45 PM will be session 6, a roundtable discussion on other related factors. The objective of this activity will be to identify " other " research topics (i.e., shippers, standards, traffic operations) that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity.   The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of " other " topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 3:45 – 4:00 PM will be the wrap-up and session evaluation. Jeff Loftus of FMCSA will lead this part of the forum, where the objective will be to solicit feedback on the day ’ s activity. The expected outcome of this activity is that everyone attending the forum will complete their session evaluation form.

[FMCSA Truck and Bus Logo]

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Research and Technology Stakeholder Forums Joe C. Thompson Conference Center

University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX February 12, 2003 9 AM – 4 PM

Forum Objectives:

• Provide an overview of FMCSA ’ s Research and Technology Program

• Discuss characteristics associated with commercial motor vehicle safety

• Discuss research and technology opportunities designed to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity

• Identify key research questions that FMCSA should investigate

Workshop Outcomes:

• Understanding of FMCSA Research and Technology Program

• Understanding of characteristics associated with large truck safety, security and productivity

• List of research topics that FMCSA should investigate in FY2005 and beyond

The following agenda is broken out by time, agenda item, objectives (also known as purpose), and outcomes. Please note that all session times are approximate and that the length of each session will be determined by the participants during the session.

From 9:00 – 9:10 AM will be the welcome/introduction part of the forum. This will be performed by Martin Walker of FMCSA and Jeff Loftus, also of FMCSA. The purpose of this activity is to welcome the participants to the Forum, outline the day ’ s general objectives as well as the specific session objectives, and make introductions. The expected outcomes of this activity are to set the tone for the day, with objectives and expectations being clearly outlined, and ensure that each participant understands his/her role and what their expected contribution to the day ’ s discussion will be.

From 9:10 – 9:45 AM will be session 1, a presentation entitled " Overview of FMCSA Research and Technology Activities. " The purpose of this session is to provide the group with an overview of FMCSA ’ s research and technology activities, including objectives, methodology and organization, as well as an overview of the Forum ’ s roundtable format and anticipated outcomes. The expected outcomes of this activity are to obtain a general understanding of the role of research and technology in FMCSA, the agency ’ s R & T methodology, and a clear understanding of the forum ’ s desired outcome.

From 9:45 – 10:45 AM will be session 2, a roundtable discussion on driver-related factors. The objectives of this activity are to identify the commercial vehicle driver-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity, as well as to identify the passenger vehicle driver-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity. The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of driver-related topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 10:45 – 11:00 AM will be a break.

From 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM will be session 3, another round table discussion on vehicle-related factors. The objectives of this activity are to identify the vehicle-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity. The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of vehicle-related topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 12:00 – 1:00 PM will be lunch.

From 1:00 – 2:00 PM will be session 4, a roundtable discussion on carrier-related factors. The objective of this activity will be to identify the carrier-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity.   The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of carrier-related topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 2:00 – 2:45 PM will be session 5, a roundtable discussion on roadside/environment-related factors. The objective of this activity will be to identify roadside/environmental-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity.   The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of roadside/environmental-related topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 2:45 – 3:00 PM will be a break.

From 3:00 – 3:45 PM will be session 6, a roundtable discussion on other related factors. The objective of this activity will be to identify " other " research topics (i.e., shippers, standards, traffic operations) that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity.   The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of " other " topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 3:45 – 4:00 PM will be the wrap-up and session evaluation. Jeff Loftus of FMCSA will lead this part of the forum, where the objective will be to solicit feedback on the day ’ s activity. The expected outcome of this activity is that everyone attending the forum will complete their session evaluation form.

[FMCSA Truck and Bus Logo]

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Research and Technology Stakeholder Forums Hall of States

Room #333

444 North Capitol Street

Washington, DC

February 20, 2003

Forum Objectives:

• Provide an overview of FMCSA ’ s Research and Technology Program

• Discuss characteristics associated with commercial motor vehicle safety

• Discuss research and technology opportunities designed to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity

• Identify key research questions that FMCSA should investigate

Workshop Outcomes:

• Understanding of FMCSA Research and Technology Program

• Understanding of characteristics associated with large truck safety, security and productivity

• List of research topics that FMCSA should investigate in FY2005 and beyond

The following agenda is broken out by time, agenda item, objectives (also known as purpose), and outcomes. Please note that all session times are approximate and that the length of each session will be determined by the participants during the session.

From 9:00 – 9:10 AM will be the welcome/introduction part of the forum. This will be performed by Mary Powers-King of FMCSA and Jeff Loftus, also of FMCSA. The purpose of this activity is to welcome the participants to the Forum, outline the day ’ s general objectives as well as the specific session objectives, and make introductions. The expected outcomes of this activity are to set the tone for the day, with objectives and expectations being clearly outlined, and ensure that each participant understands his/her role and what their expected contribution to the day ’ s discussion will be.

From 9:10 – 9:45 AM will be session 1, a presentation entitled " Overview of FMCSA Research and Technology Activities. " The purpose of this session is to provide the group with an overview of FMCSA ’ s research and technology activities, including objectives, methodology and organization, as well as an overview of the Forum ’ s roundtable format and anticipated outcomes. The expected outcomes of this activity are to obtain a general understanding of the role of research and technology in FMCSA, the agency ’ s R & T methodology, and a clear understanding of the forum ’ s desired outcome.

From 9:45 – 12:00 PM will be break-out session 1. This will consist of two groups, one focused on driver-related factors and the other focused on roadside/environmental factors. The objectives of this activity are to identify passenger and commercial vehicle driver-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity, as well as to identify roadside/environmental research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity. The expected outcome of this activity is that two lists, one of driver-related topics and questions that should be investigated and one of roadside/environmental related topics and questions that should be investigated, will be generated.

From 12:00 – 1:00 PM will be lunch.

From 1:00 – 1:30 PM will be reports from breakout session 1. The objective of this activity will be to present the findings from the first breakout session. The expected outcomes of this activity are that there will be 15-minute presentations from each group highlighting the key findings from their discussions.

From 1:30 – 3:30 PM will be break-out session 2. This will consist of two groups, one focused on vehicle -related factors and the other focused on carrier/shipper related factors. The objectives of this activity are to identify commercial vehicle-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity, as well as to identify carrier/shipper-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity. The expected outcome of this activity is that two lists, one of commercial vehicle-related topics and questions that should be investigated and one of carrier/shipper-related topics and questions that should be investigated, will be generated.

From 3:30 – 4:00 PM will be reports from breakout session 2. The objective of this activity will be to present the findings from the second breakout session. The expected outcomes of this activity are that there will be 15-minute presentations from each group highlighting the key findings from their discussions.

At 4:00 PM will be the wrap-up and session evaluation. Jeff Loftus of FMCSA will lead this part of the forum, where the objective will be to solicit feedback on the day ’ s activity. The expected outcome of this activity is that everyone attending the forum will complete their session evaluation form.

[FMCSA Truck and Bus Logo]

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Research and Technology Stakeholder Forums Hall of States

Room #333

444 North Capitol Street

Washington, DC

February 21, 2003

Forum Objectives:

• Provide an overview of FMCSA ’ s Research and Technology Program

• Discuss characteristics associated with commercial motor vehicle safety

• Discuss research and technology opportunities designed to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity

• Identify key research questions that FMCSA should investigate

Workshop Outcomes:

• Understanding of FMCSA Research and Technology Program

• Understanding of characteristics associated with large truck safety, security and productivity

• List of research topics that FMCSA should investigate in FY2005 and beyond

The following agenda is broken out by time, agenda item, objectives (also known as purpose), and outcomes. Please note that all session times are approximate and that the length of each session will be determined by the participants during the session.

From 9:00 – 9:10 AM will be the welcome/introduction part of the forum. This will be performed by Mary Powers-King of FMCSA and Jeff Loftus, also of FMCSA. The purpose of this activity is to welcome the participants to the Forum, outline the day ’ s general objectives as well as the specific session objectives, and make introductions. The expected outcomes of this activity are to set the tone for the day, with objectives and expectations being clearly outlined, and ensure that each participant understands his/her role and what their expected contribution to the day ’ s discussion will be.

From 9:10 – 9:45 AM will be session 1, a presentation entitled " Overview of FMCSA Research and Technology Activities. " The purpose of this session is to provide the group with an overview of FMCSA ’ s research and technology activities, including objectives, methodology and organization, as well as an overview of the Forum ’ s roundtable format and anticipated outcomes. The expected outcomes of this activity are to obtain a general understanding of the role of research and technology in FMCSA, the agency ’ s R & T methodology, and a clear understanding of the forum ’ s desired outcome.

From 9:45 – 12:00 PM will be break-out session 1. This will consist of two groups, one focused on driver-related factors and the other focused on roadside/environmental factors. The objectives of this activity are to identify passenger and commercial vehicle driver-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity, as well as to identify roadside/environmental research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity. The expected outcome of this activity is that two lists, one of driver-related topics and questions that should be investigated and one of roadside/environmental related topics and questions that should be investigated, will be generated.

From 12:00 – 1:00 PM will be lunch.

From 1:00 – 1:30 PM will be reports from breakout session 1. The objective of this activity will be to present the findings from the first breakout session. The expected outcomes of this activity are that there will be 15-minute presentations from each group highlighting the key findings from their discussions.

From 1:30 – 3:30 PM will be break-out session 2. This will consist of two groups, one focused on vehicle -related factors and the other focused on carrier/shipper related factors. The objectives of this activity are to identify commercial vehicle-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity, as well as to identify carrier/shipper-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity. The expected outcome of this activity is that two lists, one of commercial vehicle-related topics and questions that should be investigated and one of carrier/shipper-related topics and questions that should be investigated, will be generated.

From 3:30 – 4:00 PM will be reports from breakout session 2. The objective of this activity will be to present the findings from the second breakout session. The expected outcomes of this activity are that there will be 15-minute presentations from each group highlighting the key findings from their discussions.

At 4:00 PM will be the wrap-up and session evaluation. Jeff Loftus of FMCSA will lead this part of the forum, where the objective will be to solicit feedback on the day ’ s activity. The expected outcome of this activity is that everyone attending the forum will complete their session evaluation form.

[FMCSA Truck and Bus Logo]

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration R & T Stakeholder Forum

Motor Coach Session Hall of the States 444 North Capitol Street N.W. Room #233

Washington, DC

March 19, 2003 9 AM – 4 PM

Forum Objective:

Gather input from public and private stakeholders regarding motorcoach research and technology topics that FMCSA should investigate in order to improve motorcoach safety.

Workshop Outcomes:

• Understanding of FMCSA R & T Program;

• Understanding of motorcoach safety, security, and productivity issues; and

• List of motorcoach R & T topics that FMCSA should investigate in FY 2005 and beyond.

The following agenda is broken out by time, agenda item, objectives (also known as purpose), and outcomes. Please note that all session times are approximate and that the length of each session will be determined by the participants during the session.

From 9:00 – 9:10 AM will be the welcome/introduction part of the forum. This will be performed by Jeff Loftus of FMCSA. The purpose of this activity is to welcome the participants to the Forum, outline the day ’ s general objectives as well as the specific session objectives, and make introductions. The expected outcomes of this activity are to set the tone for the day, with objectives and expectations being clearly outlined, and ensure that each participant understands his/her role and what their expected contribution to the day ’ s discussion will be.

From 9:10 – 9:45 AM will be session 1, a presentation entitled " Overview of FMCSA Research and Technology Activities. " The purpose of this session is to provide the group with an overview of FMCSA ’ s research and technology activities, including objectives, methodology and organization, as well as an overview of the Forum ’ s roundtable format and anticipated outcomes. The expected outcomes of this activity are to obtain a general understanding of the role of research and technology in FMCSA, the agency ’ s R & T methodology, and a clear understanding of the forum ’ s desired outcome.

From 9:45 – 10:45 AM will be session 2, a roundtable discussion on driver-related factors. The objectives of this activity are to identify the motorcoach driver-related research topics that should be investigated to improve motorcoach safety, security and productivity, as well as to identify the passenger vehicle driver-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity. The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of driver-related topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 10:45 – 11:00 AM will be a break.

From 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM will be session 3, another round table discussion on vehicle-related factors. The objectives of this activity are to identify the vehicle-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity. The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of vehicle-related topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 12:00 – 1:00 PM will be lunch.

From 1:00 – 2:00 PM will be session 4, a roundtable discussion on motorcoach-related factors. The objective of this activity will be to identify the motorcoach-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity.   The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of motorcoach-related topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 2:00 – 2:45 PM will be session 5, a roundtable discussion on roadside/environment-related factors. The objective of this activity will be to identify roadside/environmental-related research topics that should be investigated to improve commercial motor vehicle safety, security and productivity.   The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of roadside/environmental-related topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 2:45 – 3:00 PM will be a break.

From 3:00 – 3:45 PM will be session 6, a roundtable discussion on other related factors. The objective of this activity will be to identify " other " research topics (i.e., shippers, standards, traffic operations) that should be investigated to improve motorcoach safety, security and productivity. The expected outcome of this activity is that a list of " other " topics and questions that should be investigated by FMCSA will be generated.

From 3:45 – 4:00 PM will be the wrap-up and session evaluation. Jeff Loftus of FMCSA will lead this part of the forum, where the objective will be to solicit feedback on the day ’ s activity. The expected outcome of this activity is that everyone attending the forum will complete their session evaluation form.