In the early 1990s, stereotypes about truck drivers started to emerge. TV shows, movies, music, and new lingo all contributed to a certain perception of the trucking industry that has led to widely believed misconceptions. It is time some of these myths are debunked.
#1. Truck Drivers Are Men Only
Many individuals incorrectly believe that truck drivers are men only when in fact, there are more than 200,000 women who drive long haul trucks. This indicates that women are an integral part of the trucking industry.
#2 Truck Drivers Are Never Home
Being a truck driver is not easy, especially when it is required to travel long distances. However, there is a large number of truck drivers who work near their homes. Truck drivers who have families are given the flexibility to choose routes that given them the ability to be able to go home after their shift and spend time with their family.
#3 Truck Drivers Are Not Educated
In order to be hired as a certified truck driver, there are many requirements and tests to complete. Many truck drivers are educated. The industry continuing to place more incentives into creating opportunities based on the truck driver’s level of education. Some companies are starting to offer reimbursement plans for those who want to attend college.
#4 Drivers Earn a Low Income
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, truck drivers on average made an annual income of $47,000 in 2019. Partly because the demand for truckers has increased in recent years, their salaries have followed suit. The highest-paid truck drivers are found in the Northeast. Truck drivers in New York and Massachusetts can make over $65,000 annually. The bottom 10% of truck drivers make on average $28,000 a year. Truck drivers often receive bonuses at the end of the year from their employers due to the hours and miles accrued.
#4. Truck Drivers Cause Accidents
Large haul trucks are on the road constantly because they have deliveries to make. Despite the fact that trucks are often seen as annoyances, truck drivers are aware of their surroundings because of the technology and mirror systems that are in place to help them stay safe on the road. It is estimated that large haul trucks are three times less likely to have an accident than smaller vehicles.
#5 Truck Drivers Speed
The goal of most truck drivers is efficiency. Speeding increases the risk of collision and the chances of being pulled over and receiving a citation. This is why the majority of truck drivers obey traffic laws, so they are able to get to their destination safely.
If you are a trucking owner and want to learn more about how TPIA is leading innovation in this space please contact jamie@truckingproudins.com. If you are an insurance broker interested to learn more about joining the TPIA team to leverage these unique tools please contact team@truckingproudins.com.
