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Driver
Training |
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New hires go
through our rigorous training program.
Areas covered are Federal Motor Carrier
Regulations, driver’s hours of service, basic and in
depth controls of the motorcoach, safe driving techniques,
space management and following intervals, adverse weather
conditions, and finally, on-road practice in one of our
motorcoaches.
After successfully
completing the training program, the new hire goes on
ride-a-longs with an experienced Driver Trainer.
After a series of ride-a-longs, the new hire gets
his or her turn at the wheel, while the Driver Trainer is
there to observe, guide, and provide answers to questions
from the new driver.
Finally, after the new driver is ready, he is sent
on his first solo charter (typically on a multiple coach
move). Constant
feedback is done from customers and the new driver himself
on his performance.
After
the 90 day training break-in period, a review is done.
Drivers are
trained in safe driving techniques when they are hired and
continuous training occurs regularly. Bi-monthly safety meetings are a constant refresher.
Videos are shown on ways to improve driving skills
and items to watch out for.
Drivers are instructed at all times to use their
best judgment. |
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Maintenance |
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We at Windstar
Lines look at maintenance as an investment, not an
expense. There
is never a time when a critical component needs repair
that dollars are an issue.
If something is broke, it gets fixed.
Period.
This
is one reason our on the road failure rate is extremely
low.
Our preventative
maintenance program is administered so that items that
need to be replaced are done so well ahead of when a potential
problem will occur.
Windstar’s
coaches are maintained in our own maintenance facility, by
our own technicians. Our maintenance technicians regularly
attend training classes sponsored by ABC Bus/Van Hool,
Detroit Diesel, Allison Transmission, Cummins Engine,
Webasto, and Carrier.
Our maintenance facility was specifically designed
for working on motorcoaches. It is equipped with a well-lit pit where our technicians can
walk under the entire length of the coach and spot
anything that may need attention. |
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Each coach is
equipped with a special box that was custom built by one
of our drivers, Dave Pudenz. The box houses spare hoses,
belts, fluids, tools, and a host of necessary
items that can and have proven to prevent costly downtime
in the event of a road failure.
Windstar Lines has
developed nationwide working relationships with other carriers for
mechanical assistance or replacement coaches should a
situation occur.
Thankfully,
this is rarely necessary.
Each of the last
two years, we have invited the DOT into our facility to
inspect our equipment.
Both times, the officers have commented what a
clean, well maintained facility we operate, and that our
equipment is in top-notch shape. |
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Insurance |
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Windstar Lines
carries 5 million dollars of liability coverage.
We have maintained a solid business relationship
with National Interstate Insurance Agency since our
company was started in 1995.
We are happy to
provide your group with a copy of our Certificate of
Insurance at any time. |
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