I have a special affinity for truck drivers. Since my job in the Army was Motor Pool Parts Clerk, I worked with them and their mechanics to keep their trucks rolling. I met my first husband in one of those motor pools. More recently, I worked for one of the areas largest truck leasing companies. Trust me when I say that it takes a special person to drive truck for a living.
With the closing of six rest areas by the NYSDOT, these drivers must now take on additional risks to do their jobs effectively. Driving truck may seem like a cake job yet it’s not. Long hours in the same position take its toll on a body. Circulatory issues and back problems are common ailments. Drivers need safe places to get out and stretch their legs. Long haul drivers need safe sleeping havens. When I read the tragedy of Jason Rivenburg, my heart sank.
The New York State Motor Truck Association is fighting for the restoration of services at these closed rest areas. I hope they are successful in at least getting the areas unblocked. You see, my son’s dad still drives long haul out of Indiana and makes deliveries to this area as often as he can to see Boy and the grandbabies. We’re always excited to hear he’ll be in the area. Now, that excitement will be tempered as many times he arrives early and has to wait it out at a nearby rest area. The area he usually uses is now closed. Where will he wait and will he be safe there?
2 comments:
I remember one summer my brother and I drove from Texas to Connecticut in two days. Afterward, I didn't want to see the inside of a truck for a week. I can only imagine what it's like for truck drivers. When I was in driver's ed, a truck driver spoke to our class and said that, while most people are afraid of the big trucks, really they're afraid of us, because we are so much smaller and they can't respond as quickly. I imagine it's that much harder when you haven't had the proper rest.
One of the biggest complaints I've heard over the years from truck drivers is people driving cars pulling out in front of them. It's hard enough to stop a rig. It's even harder when that rig is pulling a fully loaded trailer.
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