Where would we be without truck drivers? Well… we would be S-O-L because practically everything in our day-to-day lives is made possible because a truck driver did their job. Next week, September 13-19, we recognize truck drivers for their service during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.
Year after year, truck drivers work diligently to make sure our shelves are stocked, our houses are furnished, and every American has the goods and resources they need to survive. This year, truck drivers took on an even greater role by stepping up and working overtime to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
National Truck Driver Appreciation Week holds a special significance in 2020 as truck drivers have been the piece that holds this country together during COVID-19.
From making sure there’s enough hand sanitizer to go around to distributing the supplies we need to work from home and ensuring there’s food in the grocery stores, truck drivers have met our demands during these trying times.
This week is a time to give thanks to our truck drivers. It’s a time to make sure they know they’re appreciated.
Already this year, truck drivers have been recognized more than usual with small actions like “I Heart Truckers” signs lining the highways, individuals and businesses passing out hot meals, and President Trump using the hashtag #ThankATrucker. However, truck drivers have also faced many more challenges than normal.
Drivers have had to adapt to rest stops being closed, water being shut-off in remaining open rest stops, few places to get a bite to eat, and their own health and safety concerns as they risk their lives to save yours.
Show appreciation to truck drivers next week by making sure their acknowledgment is heard.
If you’re the owner of a trucking company, some actions you can take to recognize your drivers include writing “Thank You” cards, offering bonuses or time off during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, posting driver recognition posts on social media, making sure your drivers’ trucks are serviced and cleaned, and providing free or discounted meals when on the road.
National Truck Driver Appreciation Week was started in 1998 by the American Trucking Associations (ATA). This year is its’ 22nd year, and perhaps the most significant one to recognize thus far.
“This week is a way to show appreciation to the 3.5 million professional men and women who not only deliver our goods safely, securely, and on time, but also keep our highways safe,” ATA posted on their website.
For more ideas on how to support truck drivers, or to become a part of the trucking industry, contact Transportation Academy.
