Truck Accident Terms and Definitions

PTO (Power Takeoff) Device used to transmit engine power to auxiliary equipment. 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. Cargo Weight Combined weight of all loads, gear and supplies on a vehicle. Semitrailer trailer supported at the rear by its own wheels and at the front by a fifth wheel mounted to a tractor or dolly. Kingpin Pin around which a steer axle's wheels pivot. Dead-Heading Operating a truck without cargo. Fixed Tandem Assembly of two axles and suspension that is attached to the chassis in one place, and cannot be moved fore and aft 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. 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. TOFC (Trailer On Flatcar) Method of moving cargo which involves transporting semitrailers on railroad flat cars.

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	Did You Know?
	There Are Exceptions To The Hours-Of-Service Rules. Vehicles used in ground water well-drilling operations, utility service, and transporting construction materials and equipment retain the current 24-hour restart provision. However, these drivers are required to comply with the new 10-hour off-duty and 11-hour driving limitations, as well as the prohibition on driving after the 14th hour after coming on duty.