Keeping the Economy Running
Everything we own, from clothes, household goods, and construction materials has moved on a truck at some point. In fact, trucking accounts for 72.5% of domestic freight transportation, including raw materials for manufacturing, finished manufacturing, and retail goods. Grocery stores would struggle to keep products in stock and materials like medical supplies and gas would be in short supply if truck drivers stopped transporting these essentials. It would be impossible for the U.S. economy to continue functioning without the daily dedication from truck drivers.
The Sacrifices Truck Drivers and Their Families Make
The average truck driver drives 125,000 miles per year. This means 60 to 70 hours per week transporting goods, even when meeting minimum break requirements.
While drivers make these sacrifices, their families do as well. Some of these drivers are on the road for months at a time away from their spouses and children. This adds to the stresses of day-to-day life, not being together for some family celebrations, caring for an ill loved one, and not having your typical social life.
Life on the road has its challenges and can be quite stressful. Because of their long hours and lifestyle, truck drivers are at risk of hypertension, and obesity, amongst other cardiovascular illnesses. About 13.6% of truck drivers also reported depression, making the job not only physically demanding on drivers’ health but also mentally.
This was especially true during the pandemic when breakrooms, showers, and bathrooms drivers use on the road were closed. And truck stops and restaurants were forced to close during the lockdown, limiting their options for food and social interaction. This increased stress levels and feelings of isolation while on the road.
Truck Driving is Risky Business
Truck driving has been named one of the most dangerous jobs in America. Risks range from unpredictable road conditions and transporting hazardous materials to health and safety risks.
Truck drivers were especially vulnerable to COVID-19 during the pandemic, driving cross-country and interacting with people while the rest of the country was on lockdown. Hoping that hand washing, social distancing, and mask-wearing would keep them safe while interacting with others in the course of their work. They were often concerned they might unknowingly bring COVID home to their family since they were never sure if they’d been exposed.
Yet, despite facing unprecedented challenges, truck drivers’ hard work and determination made sure our nation’s supply chains kept running smoothly.
Thank A Truck Driver, Today and Everyday
We want to take this moment to thank each and every professional driver and their families. Thank you for the sacrifices you make daily to keep America rolling!
When you see a truck driver, be sure to say, “Thank You!”
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