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The decline of the American trucker: from prosperity to scarcity.

The decline of the American trucker: from prosperity to scarcity.

In the Golden Age of American Trucking, drivers enjoyed a prosperous middle-class life, earning upwards of $110,000 annually. Fast forward to today, and many truckers, once the backbone of America's supply chain, are struggling to make ends meet, with some even facing homelessness.

The deregulation domino effect. The decline began with deregulation. Previously, the government set shipping prices, ensuring stability for truckers. However, the Motor Carrier Act of 1980, signed by Jimmy Carter, aimed to reduce consumer prices. While it achieved its goal, it also paved the way for giants like Walmart to negotiate lower shipping rates, squeezing truckers in the process.

The modern trucker's plight. Today's truckers face a myriad of challenges. They grapple with electronic logging devices that restrict their autonomy, forcing them to race against the clock. These devices, intended to ensure safety, have ironically led to more speeding as drivers try to maximize their earnings.

Carlos Ortiz, a trucker with over three decades of experience, encapsulates the sentiment of many in his profession. He lives out of his truck, working grueling hours yet struggles to make it. Like Carlos, many truckers are owner-operators, bearing the brunt of overhead costs like repairs and insurance.

There's a growing consensus that change is overdue. Truckers are advocating for pay that reflects all hours worked, including loading and unloading times. They're also pushing for more flexibility in safety regulations, allowing them to manage their schedules better. Billy believes that the path to better conditions lies in organization. He envisions a future where truckers regain their collective power, ensuring that their crucial role in the American economy is adequately rewarded.

The plight of the American trucker is a stark reminder of the broader shifts in the US job market. As we continue to prioritize lower consumer prices, we must ask ourselves at what cost for those facing financial challenges in these changing times. Remember, help is available. We offer free consultations; call us at 626-338-5505.

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