Inside Coverage Technology/Equipment Issue, Spring 2004
A publication of Great West Casualty Company
Copyright 2004, All Rights Reserved

Volvo, Mack Recall Trucks

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said that Volvo Trucks North America Inc. and Mack Trucks have recalled some heavy-duty trucks.

According to the NHTSA web site, up to 6,939 Volvo VNL trucks from 2002-2003 have been recalled, because when the bunk is raised into the stored position, an object left on the bunk may inadvertently turn on a bunk lamp, possibly resulting in a fire.

NHTSA said Volvo began notifying customers in December, and its dealers will install a bunk lamp with a push button on/off switch.

NHTSA also said Mack was recalling up to 1,478 CN and CH models manufactured between August and September 2003, because the steering arm could crack on some chassis equipped with Dana steering axle assemblies. Mack dealers will inspect the integral knuckle and steering arm and replace the parts if needed.

Source: www.nhtsa.dot.gov

New Weather Web Site Assists Planners

AccuWeather.com announced that it has launched a website which will serve as a revolutionary new planning tool for decision makers within industries affected by weather.AccuWeather.com Business (www.business.accuweather.com) streamlines planning by featuring all weather information relevant to operations on one page for instant and easy access.

AccuWeather.com Business will provide customizable weather alarms, summary forecasts, historical comparisons, comprehensive graphs, and detailed forecasts for 43,000 locations nation wide. Users will be able to customize key features on the site to better serve their individual preferences for specific weather information.

The AccuWeather.com Business site is designed to simplify the workload with options that provide unprecedented accuracy and speed for business operations. For example, a user can customize alarms that will warn of unusual or extreme weather affecting the job.

Summaries, backed by in-depth details, create an instant picture of the weather out to 15 days.  Automatic historical comparisons displayed in colorful, three-dimensional graphs offer additional time savings. With a quick glance, users will be able to compare the effects of weather on transportation needs such as staffing and scheduling based on the same time period from previous years.

Users can preset numerous locations on the site for immediate access to all features.  This reduces time, because users can simply glance at AccuWeather.com Business to get all the weather information necessary. There is no need to search through countless web pages or sites to get weather for all their locations of interest.

Source: www.accuweather.com

Repair Facility Network Formed

A new network of heavy-duty truck repair facilities has been formed.  The Fleet 1st Network claims they can repair vehicles involved in accidents anywhere in the country.

Through the Fleet 1st web site (www.fleet1st.com), customers can get more information and contact Fleet 1st with inquiries. Fleet 1st’s national toll-free number is (877) 470-4295.

Source: www.fleet1st.com

Equipment Financing Available
from ORFAC

When maintenance costs begin to deteriorate profit margins, it may be time to replace the equipment. In doing so, you show your drivers you care about their safety by giving them updated, and usually better running, equipment. That is why Great West has partnered with Old Republic Financial Acceptance Corporation (ORFAC) to provide financing solutions specifically for Great West customers.

ORFAC can assist you with creating financing options for new or used equipment that reflect your business goals. Here are some of the benefits of financing through ORFAC:

One-stop Shopping. Since ORFAC is offered through agents, you have the ability to obtain a loan from the same person that sells your insurance. This saves the hassle of having to get equipment financing at another location.

Competitive Interest Rates. ORFAC offers industry-competitive financing that is appealing and affordable. Rates are established every Monday morning.

24-hour Loan Approval. When a credit application is received by an ORFAC loan processor, they work hard to make a decision within 24 hours. This reduces your down time and gets you back on the road much faster.

Exceptional Service. As a Great West customer, you can expect to receive the highest level of customer service.

For more information on ORFAC equipment financing solutions or to apply for a loan, contact Karen Kohrs, or Tim Dent at 800-373-0371.

*ORFAC is not available in all states.

Mid-America Truck Show
Louisville, Kentucky
March 25 – 27, 2004

Show Times:
Thursday, March 25 – 1pm to 6pm
Friday, March 26 – 10am to 6pm
Saturday, March 27 – 8am to 5pm

* All policy terms, conditions, definitions, and exclusions apply to this coverage. Please see your agent for exact provisions.