A simulated challenge for safe truck driving bragging rights is one of the highlights of safety activities planned for the California Trucking Assn’s. (CTA) 2004 International Truck Show.

Think you’re as safe and skilled a driver as any trucker out there? The SAFE Sim Challenge at the 2004 ITS, Sept. 23-25 at the Anaheim Convention Center, will give you the opportunity to prove it on the industry’s first affordable truck driving simulator in a contest hosted by J. J. Keller & Associates Inc.
"A great way to prepare drivers for dangerous highway conditions is to simulate the actual driving experience in a safe and controlled environment," said Joel D. Anderson, executive vice president/CEO of the CTA. "At the International Trucking Show, J.J. Keller will introduce breakthrough safety technology with a fun an innovative approach."
In the SAFE Sim Challenge, competitors slide behind the wheel and actually drive a simulated straight truck or semi in a challenging virtual environment that tests their driving skills. Drivers compete to have the lowest elapsed time for the trip. Infractions incurred add seconds or even minutes to the elapsed time. Drivers with the lowest "adjusted" elapsed time win the competition.
"At J.J. Keller, we’re excited to team up with the California Trucking Assn., our partner of many years, to bring this one-of-a-kind event to the International Trucking Show," said Keith Keller, corporate product development manager. "Competitors will get a chance to test their skills on the industry’s first affordable truck driving simulator and find out how safe a driver they really are. Plus, they’ll be able to win prizes."
The CTA and J.J. Keller have also teamed up to offer professional safety seminars at the 2004 ITS for $99 each.
"Safety is what the public wants from the trucking industry," Anderson said. "We’ve made safety a core value of the CTA, and we’re working hard to make sure the 2004 ITS provides a forum for knowledge exchange about best practices as well as the best products and services. We are deeply appreciative of the Keller organization of believing in that goal and working with us to make these high quality, affordable seminars available to all ITS attendees."
Seminars offered are:
-- DOT Regulatory Update
-- Alcohol & Drug Testing: Mandatory Supervisor Training
-- How to Survive a BIT Audit
-- Hazmat Recertification Fundamentals
-- California Laws & Regulations Seminar: Vehicle Code & Title 13
Now in it’s 43rd year and back in Anaheim after eight years in Las Vegas, the theme of the 2004 International Trucking Show is, "Let’s Get Down to Business." The show offers events, seminars and workshops designed to help participants run their businesses more profitably.
All revenue from the show is reported to the CTA board of directors, and goes to activities and programs that directly benefit the California trucking industry.
This year’s show is being held near Disneyland, and close to a range of affordable hotel accommodations. For a current ITS floor plan and space application, log on to www.intltruckshow.com or call (800) 809-8839.