Next week is National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (Aug. 22-28) when the nation’s three million professional truck drivers get a nationwide pat on the back
for their hard work in moving the goods and products that make up our national economy.
During the annual celebration, the nation’s motor carriers, state trucking associations and trucking industry manufacturers and suppliers honor drivers in various ways. They may include million-mile and safety awards, cash bonuses or gifts for some, an extra paid day off for others, a cup of coffee or windshield cleaning at truckstops, and plenty of company picnics.
Elsewhere, some carriers encourage office workers to greet drivers on arrival and give them a break and a thank you by checking their oil and tires, cleaning windshields, fueling and washing trucks. Office personnel at some companies are also encouraged to spend a few days out on the road to see the driver’s side of their business.
Carriers are encouraged to share their celebration plans on a special web site at www.NTDAW.org.
Most of the nation’s governors will join the occasion, too, by issuing proclamations designating Aug. 22-28 as Truck Driver Appreciation Week in their respective states.
"America’s truck drivers deserve our thanks for delivering the things we need safely and efficiently," said Bill Graves, ATA president and CEO. "With trucking delivering nearly 70% of the freight moved in this country -- and with 80% of our communities depending solely on trucking to deliver their food, clothing, and other necessities -- it is an important job and the men and women who do it deserve our thanks."
The ATA again has colorful National Truck Driver Appreciation Week products available for purchase by trucking companies and industry partners who want to honor truck drivers.
They are available at www.ntdaw.org