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The driver of a truck involved in an Amtrak derailment will be charged with failing to stop for an approaching train, authorities said. David Bubela, 21, of El Campo, Texas, also faces possible citations for failure to have a log book and faulty brakes.

The $1.3 billion settlement between the federal government and six major engine manufacturers accused of cheating on engine emissions tests was approved July 1 by a federal judge.

The price of diesel rose 1.5 cents through the week leading up to the Fourth of July holiday, hitting $1.102 a gallon. The national average reported July 5 took fuel to a 17-month high. This has prompted some observers to suggest that rate surcharges have become a serious possibility.

Teamsters union President James P. Hoffa asked workers picketing at 11 Overnite Transportation terminals Friday to go back to work. Company officials called the decision a "surrender," while the union claimed victory.

More Illinois truckers will be have to retake portions of their commercial driver license tests because of a CDL-selling racket involving state employees. A state spokesman said the 195 truckers will have one opportunity to take a newly written test from July 12 to 16 or face losing their driving privileges.

The Maintenance Council of American Trucking Associations and the Engine Manufacturers Association have joined to propose a new standard definition for “premium” diesel fuel, which sets forth requirements for minimum lubricity and thermal stability, among other things.

Highway robbers are banking on the easy prey of unattended trailers, and the black market distribution network has become so sophisticated that the stolen loot can be on a boat bound overseas before the theft is even reported.

An Amtrak train hit a tanker truck July 8, derailing eight cars and injuring at least four people, none seriously. Among the uninjured passengers was Cindy McCain, wife of Arizona Sen. John McCain, and their son, Jack, 13. McCain, a Republican, chairs the Senate Transportation Committee.

About 1,400 dockworkers returned to their jobs July 8 after shutting down the Oakland port for two days in the middle of contract negotiations. A union spokesman said contract negotiations with port management would resume July 9.

Employees at two more Overnite Transportation terminals went on strike July 8, bringing the total number of strikers to 1,430 at seven of the firm's 166 terminals, Teamsters union officials said. Earlier, the company flatly rejected the union’s offer of a meeting.