The “Driver Inc.” model, an incorporated driver scheme, is a billion-dollar scam that exploits vulnerable truck drivers and compromises public safety. While this model provides significant financial benefits for certain transport companies, it raises serious concerns regarding safety and training. Incorporated drivers often receive less protection and training compared to regular employees, significantly increasing risks for both the drivers themselves and the public.
Between 2011 and 2021, the number of independent drivers in the Greater Toronto Area increased by 172%. The majority of these workers are immigrants, accounting for 72% of the workforce. These drivers take substantial financial risks without fully understanding the implications of their status. For instance, Arshdeep Singh, a driver in Brampton, had to personally cover costly repairs to his truck. His employer refused to pay for these essential safety-related expenses, exploiting Singh’s incorporated status to evade responsibility, even though the truck is part of the employer’s fleet.
The exploitation extends beyond unpaid wages. Audits by the Ontario Workplace Safety and Insurance Board reveal that many trucking companies underreport their drivers’ earnings to avoid employment-related costs. They falsely classify their drivers as independent contractors, thus reducing their overheads. An analysis by the Ontario Trucking Association indicates that 90% of these companies have poor safety records and exhibit other signs of non-compliance, such as high collision rates and safety violations.
Ten Brampton-based trucking companies collectively owe over $200,000 in unpaid wages. Despite numerous recorded accidents, these companies have had very few injury compensation claims accepted by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board between 2012 and 2020.
The Ontario Trucking Association emphasizes that these data clearly show a connection between employee misclassification and safety issues. Misclassified drivers may not receive coverage in the event of an injury following an accident. Singh believes that the industry’s growing reliance on vulnerable workers is a significant factor. Immigrants and international students, often less aware of their rights, are exploited by employers who take advantage of their lack of knowledge.
The “Driver Inc.” model not only represents a blatant exploitation of workers, but it also endangers public safety by neglecting proper training and safe working conditions. This negligence can have severe consequences not only for the drivers themselves but also for other road users, pedestrians, and public infrastructure. Accidents involving trucks can result in significant damage and loss of life, highlighting the dangers of this employment model.
Implementing measures to ensure equity and social justice for all trucking workers in Canada is essential. Let’s stop Driver Inc now!
More :
- Employees, Drivers Inc, and Owner-Operators: Understanding the Differences
- “Driver Inc”: Tax Evasion and Lost Revenue for Public Services
- Controversial “Driver Inc” Model in the Trucking Industry
- “Driver inc.” Scheme: Working Conditions and Social Protections
