Truck Accident Terms and Definitions

TOFC (Trailer On Flatcar) Method of moving cargo which involves transporting semitrailers on railroad flat cars. GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) Maximum weight an axle is rated to carry by the manufacturer. Includes both the weight of the axle and the portion of a vehicle's weight carried by the axle. Fixed Tandem Assembly of two axles and suspension that is attached to the chassis in one place, and cannot be moved fore and aft Kingpin Pin around which a steer axle's wheels pivot. Landing Gear legs which support the front of a semitrailer when it is not coupled to a tractor. Hazmat Hazardous materials, as classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Transport of hazardous materials is strictly regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation. PTO (Power Takeoff) Device used to transmit engine power to auxiliary equipment. Yard Jockey Person who operates a yard tractor. Cargo Weight Combined weight of all loads, gear and supplies on a vehicle. GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) Total weight of a vehicle and everything aboard, including its load.

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	Did You Know?
	Trucking Carriers And Drivers Are Required To Comply With The New Hours-Of-Service Rules. Carriers and drivers were required to operate under the former rules through January 3, 2004. That allowed adequate time for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), regulated industry, and the enforcement community to be trained and make any systems changes required by the new rules. Compliance with the new rules was required starting January 4, 2004.