By Olivia Nelson, ICSA Communications Specialist
Recently, I had the opportunity to go on a ride along with a trainer and a driver at Stewart Transport Inc. Although Stewart is not an ICSA member, it is a true success story in trucking, beginning as a one-truck operation in 1995 to owning and operating 100+ trucks today. Observing several local deliveries with the driver gave me a firsthand look at a truck driver’s daily routine and deepened my appreciation for their hard work.
We started the day with a pre-trip inspection. Walking around the truck and trailer, we checked every component to ensure everything was in working order. While this process took time, the driver emphasized how much worse it is to deal with a breakdown on the road. She shared a personal experience when she was stranded for days during winter weather because of a mechanical failure. A thorough pre-trip inspection can’t prevent every issue, but it often helps drivers catch potential problems before hitting the road.
Backing up a trailer proved to be another essential skill. The drivers I observed made it look easy, yet I know it requires precision and experience. Before putting the truck in reverse, they always got out to assess their surroundings, honked their horns to alert anyone nearby, and then carefully maneuvered into position. Watching them do this process with such control showed me the level of skill required to handle a truck safely.
I also gained insight into the importance of driver health. The driver I accompanied had spent years as an over-the-road (OTR) driver but recently switched to a local position at the company. Health challenges made it difficult for her to maintain a balanced lifestyle while driving OTR. Moving to a local position allowed her to focus more on diet and exercise. I had heard from groups like Project 61 about the struggles drivers face when trying to stay healthy, but hearing a personal story helped show me just how challenging it can be to prioritize wellness on the road.
This ride-along was an eye-opening experience. Seeing these challenges firsthand helped me connect more deeply with the issues I regularly discuss in my role at ICSA. Truck drivers do far more than just drive a truck transporting goods. They manage complex logistics, prioritize safety, and navigate personal challenges, all while keeping the country moving. This experience has given me an even greater respect for the men and women behind the wheel.
For truckers, testing for marijuana continues. Just as with testing for cocaine, amphetamines, PCP, and opioids, testing for marijuana will continue to be conducted on a pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and return-to-duty basis.
As temperatures rise, so do the risks associated with tires, brakes, and overall vehicle condition. Summer heat doesn’t just stress drivers, it amplifies mechanical weaknesses, making maintenance and inspections more important than ever.
The 2026 road construction season is going to be one of the largest in U.S. history and anyone using the roads should be prepared for what’s coming.