A large segment of the truck driving population is composed of drivers who work locally and are home most nights. In this article, Commercial Trucking Expert Michael O’Dell explores the unique…
Michael O’Dell, CDS Commercial Trucking Expert
Michael O'Dell is a trucking operations expert with over twenty five years of combined professional experience as a tractor trailer driver, operations supervisor, and CDL driver trainer. He applies his expertise to forensic casework involving commercial trucking and warehousing operations, driver actions, and regulatory compliance.
Prior to joining Robson Forensic, Michael spent 16 years at FedEx Freight as a driver advisor, instructor, and tractor trailer driver. After accruing over one million miles of accident free driving, Michael moved into safety management positions; first as a Driver Development Instructor and later as a Driver Advisor. In these roles, Michael developed and conducted training for new CDL drivers and ongoing training for experienced drivers. In addition to routine training, Michael was also responsible for post-incident driver interventions and remedial training. He is experienced in the training and utilization of various crash avoidance systems and strategies including Smith System, Hard Braking, Roll Stability, and Collision Mitigation systems.
Before earning his Commercial Drivers License, Michael worked as a dispatcher and dock worker. He has extensive experience in the proper loading and securement of cargo, the operation of fork trucks and other industrial equipment, and the general operations of warehouse and distribution facilities. Michael maintains his CDL-A license with all endorsements and is a member of Motor Truck Associations in multiple states.
Professional Experience
Robson Forensic, Inc.
Associate
2020 to presentProvide technical investigations, analysis, reports, and testimony toward the resolution of litigation involving commercial trucking, warehousing / distribution center operations, and DOT, FMCSR, and OSHA regulatory compliance.
Taylor Transportation Consultants
Transportation Consultant
2021 to presentResponsible for fleet safety and compliance for CDL and non-CDL, commercial and non-commercial motor vehicle fleets; auditing, implementing, and training fleet safety programs.
Fed Ex Freight
2004 to 2020Driver Advisor – Safety 2015-2020
Responsible for all aspects of state and federal DOT regulatory compliance. Developed and conducted regularly scheduled safety meetings as well as post-accident remedial training. Managed the training and utilization of new crash avoidance technology systems such as: Hard Braking, Roll Stability, and Collision Mitigation systems. Conducted accident and injury investigations.
Driver Development Instructor 2014-2015
Developed and conducted training for student CDL drivers with the goal of them obtaining their CDL license. Training included pre-trip inspections, dropping/hooking single and double trailer combinations, Smith System Defensive Driving Training, and general safe equipment operation. Conducted performance reviews as well as in-service and postaccident driver intervention and remediation.
Tractor Trailer Driver 2004-2014
Licensed CDL-A professional tractor-trailer operator with all endorsements. FedEx qualified Road Coach, responsible for the transition of drivers from the training program to full operation. Performance and Safety analysis and evaluation of newly licensed CDL-A drivers.
Overnite Transportation
1995 to 2004Operations Supervisor 2003-2004
Oversaw city and local dispatch operations. Responsible for the scheduling and dispatching for 32 local CDL-A truck drivers. Supported outbound shipping operations with meeting scheduled departure times, proper cargo loading and securement, and Bill of Lading and Manifest generation. Maintained a safe work environment and adherence to company safety rules.
Driver 1998-2003
Licensed CDL-A professional tractor-trailer operator – all endorsements
Dockworker 1995-1998
Cargo handling, truck loading / unloading, forklift operation, yard hostler.
Professional Credentials
Maryland CDL-A License – all endorsements
Maryland Motorcycle License
Certified Director of Safety (CDS), North American Transportation Management Institute (NATMI)
Past Certifications:
Smith System – Certified Instructor
Continuing Education
- PIMA Community College, Tucson, Arizona, Transportation & Traffic Management, 2023
- PIMA Community College, Tucson, Arizona, Introduction to Autonomous Vehicles, 2022
- FedEx in-house continuous training in accident investigation, risk management, regulatory compliance, accident and injury reduction programs, 2014-2020
Professional Memberships
- Maryland Motor Truck Association
- Delaware Motor Truck Association
v. 04/30/23