Through generous support from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, TDS can offer Respect the Rig learning opportunities for schools and community events. Review All-Star information to learn about Share the Road Unit Credit. Please contact your regional representative for more information and assistance in scheduling.
Big Rig Visit – American Road Team Truck and Captain
The professionals from the American Road Team will bring a big rig to your location and a Captain will walk teens around the truck pointing out safety features and, if allowed, invite teens to sit in the truck to get a glimpse from their seat. Captains are professional drivers with years of safe driving miles accumulated. They are trained in public outreach and display professionalism and expertise. Requests for this resource should be completed at least 6 weeks in advance by completing the details below. TDS staff will request the truck and typically receives word on availability within a few days. We will not know which truck/Captain will attend until the date is approved.
Resources to compliment your Big Rig Event:
Driving Simulator
TDS has access to several driving simulators, covering texting while driving or driving safely around large trucks (no zones and blind spots). Availability depends upon location since they cannot be shipped. All systems include hi-resolution monitors, a steering wheel, an accelerator, and a brake pedal for a better visual/interactive experience. Driving simulators are a good activity during lunch, at other safety fairs, or at open houses. TDS must have access to electricity.
Big Rig Tablets
The tablets come with headphones and have 3 videos and 2 interactive games preloaded onto them, covering no zones (blind spots, stopping distances, turning radius, and truck safety while walking and biking). These are great for quick lessons in big rig safety.
Community Partnering
There are many lessons around big rig safety. Schools are encouraged to include local partners to provide additional education on high-priority areas, such as work zone safety, human trafficking, and rural road safety.