Millions of Americans will hit the roads this coming weekend for Memorial Day beach trips and barbecues with friends and family. I'll be right there beside them — not for a vacation, but as one of 3.5 million professional truck drivers working to safely deliver the goods that keep our community running.
Driving alongside your family on the highway is a tremendous responsibility that I do not take lightly. It's my first priority that we all return home safely from our trips — whether it's a trip to the beach or a delivery to stock the shelves at the local grocery store.
As we kick off the busy summer travel season, I hope that you'll share this goal so that we can successfully share the road.
While driving next to a truck on the highway can seem intimidating, know that I am well-trained and dedicated to ensuring your safety. The trucking industry invests at least $9.5 billion in improving safety every year, and it's paying off. Our trucks are safer than ever, and I'm trained to drive with the highest level of caution, especially on a busy weekend like the one ahead.
Yet the same things that frustrate you on the road — bad traffic and crumbling infrastructure — frustrate me, too. And with a big rig and a trailer full of freight, the stakes are high.
As aggravated as I may get from congestion, it's my duty to stay calm and operate at safe speeds to ensure the safety of those around me and to make a successful delivery. Millions of drivers will be on the roads this holiday weekend, so you and I may be sitting in some traffic together.
I keep my cool by focusing on what lies ahead. The next mile is always the most important.
One way to fix America's congestion problem is by working to expand and improve our highway system. Like many of you, I'm anxiously waiting for Congress to make a greater investment in infrastructure. Increased funding for America's roads and bridges will only help to ensure safe, efficient deliveries — something we can all celebrate.