Truck Accident Terms and Definitions

PTO (Power Takeoff) Device used to transmit engine power to auxiliary equipment. Sliding Tandem (Slider) Mechanism that allows a tandem axle suspension to be moved back and forth at the rear of a semitrailer, for the purpose of adjusting the distribution of weight between the axles and fifth wheel. Dead-Heading Operating a truck without cargo. Landing Gear legs which support the front of a semitrailer when it is not coupled to a tractor. Tandem Axle (Tandems) Pair of axles and associated suspension usually located close together. GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) Total weight of a vehicle and everything aboard, including its load. 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. LTL Carrier company which consolidates less-than-truckload cargo for multiple destinations on one vehicle. Cargo Weight Combined weight of all loads, gear and supplies on a vehicle. Bobtail Tractor Tractor operating without a trailer. Also refers to straight truck. Bogie (also spelled bogey) Assembly of two or more axles, usually a pair in tandem. Brake Horsepower (bhp) Engine horsepower rating as determined by brake dynamometer testing. (see Horsepower)

Contact our lawyer now If you have experienced personal injuries or substantial income loss as a result of a truck accident in Oregon. Our lawyers are here to give you a free case review and to fight for you in court.

	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.