ATA Advises Truckers, Motorists to Take Precautions Ahead of Hurricane Irene

ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- American Trucking Associations urges truck drivers, as well as motorists to take appropriate precautions ahead of Hurricane Irene, including planning to avoid areas in the storm's path and following the instructions of local, state and federal authorities.

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"It appears that Hurricane Irene will be tracking up one of the most populated – and  heavily-traveled – regions in the country, so we advise that all drivers, commercial and commuter alike, make good decisions about traveling this weekend," ATA President and CEO Bill Graves said. "No trip, and no delivery, is worth putting yourself or others in harm's way."

Graves also encourages truckers, as well as all residents in Irene's path to follow the instructions of emergency planners.

"If you're advised to evacuate, do so in a quick and orderly fashion," he said. "As a former governor, I know that officials do not issue evacuation orders lightly, so if you are told to go, it is for a reason."

Once the storm passes, the trucking industry is ready to assist in the cleanup and recovery efforts.

"Everyday, trucking delivers life's essentials," Graves said. "After the storm clears and the waters recede, the industry is poised to deliver food, water, fuel and other critical relief supplies to those in the greatest need."

For more information, ATA encourages people to visit Ready.gov or http://www.redcross.org/. Also, for carriers interested in assisting in post-incident relief efforts, please visit the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) at http://www.alanaid.org/ 

American Trucking Associations is the largest national trade association for the trucking industry. Through a federation of 50 affiliated state trucking associations and industry-related conferences and councils, ATA is the voice of the industry America depends on most to move our nation's freight. Follow ATA on Twitter or on Facebook. Good stuff. Trucks Bring It!

SOURCE American Trucking Associations