National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is a week-long celebration held annually nationwide in September and is a cornerstone program launched by the American Trucking Associations in 1988. It serves as a dedicated time to recognize and honor the vital contributions of truck drivers to our daily lives and the economy.

The first Sunday in September marks the kickoff of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (or NTDAW for short). The idea behind National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is simple: a well-deserved tribute to the professional truck drivers who play a crucial role in delivering America's freight safely and securely each day. With a staggering number of 3.49 million professional men and women behind the wheel, they work tirelessly to transport essential goods and resources to communities across the nation.

two smiling male drivers

Truck drivers are the unsung heroes who play a vital role in our daily lives. They are responsible for ensuring that goods and resources reach every corner of the country. In fact, more than 80% of U.S. communities rely solely on trucks to meet their freight transportation needs. This statistic alone highlights the critical role that truck drivers play in keeping our supply chains intact and our lives running smoothly.

A truck driver is a person who drives a truck for a living. Generally speaking, anyone who drives a truck for a living is considered to be a truck driver. However, in some cases, the role of a truck driver can be more specific. Whether you are part-time, full-time, an independent contractor, or an owner and driver of a large fleet. Regardless of the scope of the role, all truck drivers have the same basic responsibilities: they are responsible for ensuring that their trucks are safe to drive and that they are able to complete their routes on time. As such, good driving skills and thorough knowledge of local laws and regulations are essential. And we acknowledge the time and effort they put in each day.

Consider for a moment the impact that truck drivers have on our everyday existence. From the food we eat to the clothes we wear; truck drivers are the lifeline that brings these essential items to our tables and closets. They ensure that medicine reaches pharmacies and hospitals, allowing us to heal and recover. Our homes are filled with products that arrive on trucks, from cleaning supplies to furniture and electronics. Even the construction industry relies heavily on truck drivers to transport the materials and equipment necessary for building our homes, offices, and infrastructure.
Truckers exemplify unwavering dedication, facing long hours and challenging conditions to ensure the seamless operation of businesses. Regardless of the weather, time of day, or external obstacles, they navigate the roads with determination. Their exceptional ability to adapt to unexpected situations is truly commendable, showcasing their resilience and commitment to keeping goods and services flowing without interruption.

Now, let's dive into the fascinating world of trucks and trucking. Here are 10 intriguing facts that will not only amaze you but also give you a deeper appreciation for these remarkable vehicles and the bustling industry that keeps them rolling:
  1. The first truck.
    2. In 1985, Karl Benz designed and build the first internal combustion engine truck.
  2. It’s an ever-growing industry.
    3. Over the next ten years, the trucking industry is expected to grow by up to 21%.
  3. Their Safety
    4. Truck drivers understand the immense responsibility of operating heavy vehicles weighing tens of thousands of pounds. They prioritize safety, evident in the fact that trucks have a crash rate 27% lower than other vehicles.
  4. They’re practically eco-friendly.
    5. Over the last two decades, heavy truck emissions have been reduced by over 95% due to E.P.A. regulations.
  5. Small businesses are prevalent.
    6. Small business trucking companies account for 90% of the industry.
  6. Truckers are mostly men.
    7. Only 6% of truck drivers worldwide are female.
  7. They rarely visit home.
    8. Truckers spend more than 240 nights away from home each year, accounting for more than half of the year.
  8. Their Resolve
    9. A typical professional truck driver logs more than 112,000 miles per year – the equivalent of almost four trips around the equator!
  9. The workforce of the trucking industry
    10. In the U.S. alone, 8.9 million people have a job in the truck industry; 3.5 million of these are truck drivers.
  10. Their Bravery
    11. No matter if there are hurricanes, wildfires, blizzards, etc. – when the rest of us hunker down, truck drivers are often still out on the roads, ensuring that much-needed supplies get delivered, even in the aftermath of an emotionally and/or physically challenging disaster.

If you want more information on our insurance programs solutions, please visit reach out to us at info@qualitasins.com