Jim Coles, a driver for MacKinnon Transport, has been recognized as the 2009 Ontario Trucking Association - Volvo Trucks Canada Driver of The Year
. Coles has 2.6 million accident-free kilometers under his belt in the 32 years he's been on the road.

The award is given to a professional driver who has a collision-free driving record and is an exemplary driver both on and off the road. Coles received the award at a luncheon Thursday at the 2009 convention of the Ontario Trucking Association. He was presented with a keepsake trophy, cash prize, and a trip to the Ontario Trucking Association convention.

"It is the safety of road users with whom I share the road that pushes me to be the best I can be," Coles said. "I will not lower my work ethic or standards because of time constraints or rush loads, there is no room for complacency when safety is involved."

Coles has been recognized for his collision-free driving record previously and has repeatedly been the first to lend assistance and comfort at an accident scene.

A member of the OTA Road Knights Team from 2007 to 2008, Coles helped to raise awareness of how to safely share the road with transport trucks. He also visited schools and career events to encourage career seekers to explore opportunities in the trucking industry.