Over 3.5 million Americans work as drivers in the truck transportation industry. These hard-working, dedicated professionals play a vital role in ensuring freight such as food, medicine, construction materials, and other essential goods arrive safely and on time. As National Truck Driver Appreciation Week approaches, it’s time to honor these heroes of the highway for tackling one of the nation’s most demanding and important jobs.
Here are some of the ways Bay & Bay celebrates National Truck Driver Appreciation Week and why we believe it’s important to appreciate drivers 365 days a year.
An Annual Celebration
National Truck Driver Appreciation Week falls on the second week of September, starting this year on Sunday, the 10th, and concluding on Saturday, September 16th. The American Trucking Associations launched the annual event in 1988 to recognize and honor the vital contributions of truck drivers to our daily lives and the economy. It’s a time to show appreciation for the long hours and challenging conditions they face while delivering essential goods and prioritizing safety for everyone on the roads.
Why Is It Important to Celebrate Truck Drivers?
Research reveals that truck drivers are more susceptible to overexertion and health issues due to their long hours on the road. Another study indicates that 19.5% of surveyed drivers struggle with mental health. Another 36.7% suffer moderate to severe levels of distress.
National Truck Driver Appreciation Week sheds light on the daily challenges truck drivers face. By raising awareness, drivers, trucking companies, and industry associations like the ATA are in a better position to address these issues, which will go a long way towards attracting and retaining the best and brightest talent to work in this critical profession.
Ways to Honor Truckers During Driver Appreciation Week
Celebrate with a Free Lunch
There are many ways to celebrate Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Lots of trucking companies offer complimentary, freshly prepared meals as a gesture of appreciation. Nothing tastes better than free food, and it’s a great way to build comradery and a sense of community between drivers and other employees.
Raffles, Prizes, and Gifts
Truck Driver Appreciation Week is more fun and exciting when employers offer raffles and other activities with prizes and giveaways. Gift cards to purchase fuel or food, apparel, and other swag make for a more memorable and rewarding celebration. A simple gift is another wonderful way to say “thank you” to drivers. Electric blankets, pressure-relieving cushions, and audiobooks are among the most popular gifts for drivers.
Bottom Line: Go Beyond the Week
Appreciating drivers is critical to cultivating a healthy and happy workplace, as truck driving stands out as one of the most demanding and challenging professions.
At Bay & Bay, we strongly support coming together to celebrate our drivers, not just during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week but throughout the entire year. We embrace every opportunity to honor our road warriors, and we hope you will join us in appreciating the sacrifices they make every day to keep America moving.