California AB5 Law, Burnout, & Brake Blitz: What Truckers Need to Know

by TRUCKERS VA
(UNITED STATES)

This blog post breaks down key takeaways from a video that pulls together tips from multiple articles. Each section links to the full article so you can dig in further when you're ready.

The industry is broken — and drivers feel it
A growing number of drivers are dealing with burnout, disrespect, and a system that feels rigged. The message is clear: it’s not just you. You're stuck in a grind that's wearing down even the best of us.

Many truckers feel mentally exhausted, but it's not burnout — it's the structure of the industry.

Long hours, low pay, and constant pressure are grinding drivers down.

You’re not crazy for wanting out or looking for a smarter way forward.

👉 Read the full article

The next-gen trucker is thinking different
A new generation of truckers is coming up, and they’re bringing a tech-first mindset. Instead of “grinding it out,” they’re thinking “work smarter” — and it’s changing the game.

Younger drivers value flexibility and side hustles.

They’re using tools, automation, and digital income streams.

If you’re still doing things the old-school way, you might get left behind.

👉 Read the full article

California’s AB5 law: what’s really going on
AB5 is the law that could kill the independent contractor model in California — and possibly beyond. Truckers are pushing back, and it’s now reached the Supreme Court.

The law forces companies to reclassify independent contractors as employees.

Many owner-operators in California are caught in limbo or leaving the state.

The court’s decision could reshape how trucking operates nationwide.

👉 Read the full article

Used truck prices are falling — opportunity or warning?
Prices on used rigs are still dropping, which is either a great deal for buyers or a flashing red light for the market.

Smart buyers are scooping up trucks while prices are low.

But low prices may signal deeper instability in the industry.

Make sure you’re not just buying a cheap truck — but a smart plan too.

👉 Read the full article

Brake check: CVSA Roadcheck Blitz coming June 4–6
Get ready — the annual CVSA blitz is almost here, and this year the focus is brakes and driver readiness.

Inspectors will be out in full force across North America.

Expect brake systems to be under the microscope.

Make sure you’re not caught slipping — literally.

👉 Read the full article

Freightliner recall: 6,000+ Cascadias under watch
If you drive a Cascadia, listen up. There’s a major recall due to a brake issue that could increase stopping distance — and danger.

Over 6,000 Freightliner trucks are affected.

The issue could delay brake engagement and cause crashes.

If your VIN is on the list, don’t wait — get it fixed.

👉 Read the full article

Bottom line: Truck smarter, not harder
These stories all point to one thing — trucking is changing. Whether it’s laws, prices, or safety — you’ve got to stay sharp. But more than that, you’ve got to have a plan beyond the wheel.

Looking to build freedom beyond the freight?

👉 RetireFromTrucking.com
👉 LifeAsATrucker.com

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