The trucking industry has undergone numerous transformations in recent years, and truck drivers haven’t hesitated to voice their opinions on the worst changes affecting their profession.
Here’s an overview of the main concerns raised by truck drivers :
The Impact of Technology on the Transportation Industry
A recurring theme in drivers’ responses is the introduction of new technologies, particularly e-logs (electronic logging devices) and anti-pollution systems. Many drivers feel these tools have complicated their work. E-logs are seen as a constraint, forcing drivers to stick to rigid schedules, leaving little room to adjust driving time based on fatigue. The DEF systems (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) designed to reduce emissions are also criticized for their high costs and frequent breakdowns.
Deregulation of the Transport Industry
The deregulation of the transport industry, which began years ago, allowed more companies to enter the trucking sector by relaxing previously strict rules. While this increased competition may seem positive, it has had negative effects for truck drivers. To remain competitive, companies have often lowered their rates, leading to reduced wages and poorer working conditions for drivers. Consequently, truckers find themselves working harder for less pay, in an environment where the pressure to do more with less is constant. Many drivers view deregulation as a source of frustration, contributing to the decline of their profession.
Traffic and Road Infrastructure
The growing volume of traffic and aging infrastructure are major issues for truckers. They claim that roads are overcrowded, poorly maintained, and traffic jams have become a daily source of stress. They believe governments have not invested enough to meet the needs of the trucking industry and road networks, exacerbating the situation.
Lack of Training for New Drivers
The lack of proper training for new drivers, many of whom come from abroad, is another frequent criticism. Truckers argue that hiring inexperienced drivers increases the risk of accidents and raises insurance costs. They feel the industry prioritizes quantity over quality, neglecting to train new drivers adequately, which directly impacts road safety.
A Profession Losing its Passion
Many truck drivers lament that the passion for their work has faded over time. They now feel more like operators than craftsmen of the transportation industry. The pressure to increase productivity, coupled with the technological transformation of their profession, has eroded the sense of pride and camaraderie that once defined the trucking industry.
Automatic Transmissions
Many truckers criticize automatic transmissions, claiming they make driving less engaging and devalue the profession. They believe that this technology removes a key skill from truck driving, making the job less interesting. Drivers feel that this reduces their competence and involvement, directly affecting their professional pride.
Speed Limiters Set at 105 km/h
Another major source of dissatisfaction is the government’s mandate of speed limiters in Quebec set at 105 km/h. Truckers say this restriction limits their ability to adapt to road conditions and causes frustration on highways.
Dangerous Driving and Mobile Phone Use
Some truckers have expressed concerns about reckless driving, particularly involving mobile phone use. They denounce the fact that many drivers are using apps like YouTube, TikTok, or Netflix, or playing games while driving. They believe that fines for using a phone while driving are not strong enough deterrents.
The Behavior of Car Drivers
The lack of respect from car drivers is another common complaint. Many truckers have noted that car drivers frequently cut them off or insult them, putting everyone at risk. This behavior, they claim, worsened after the pandemic, when truckers were once considered heroes. This shift in social perception has contributed to a deterioration in relations between truckers and motorists, creating tension on the roads.
Electric Trucks and Upcoming Technology
Finally, some truckers express skepticism about the future of the industry with the rise of electric trucks. They fear this technology is not yet sufficiently developed to meet the demands of heavy freight transportation, particularly in terms of reliability and range. Others are concerned about the integration of driver-assistance systems, which they see as reducing their control over their vehicles and threatening their jobs.
In Summary
Truck drivers highlight that the many changes in the transportation industry have made their job more complex and less rewarding. Technological advancements, deregulation, lack of training, and inadequate road infrastructure are viewed as major challenges. Added to this are concerns about road safety, the behavior of motorists, and the loss of camaraderie among drivers. While the industry continues to evolve, truckers feel these transformations often negatively impact their working conditions and the very essence of their profession.
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