LMTA Foundation Honors Louisiana Trucking Safety Leaders With 2026 Awards

The LMTA Foundation honored Casey Driggers and Charles James during its 2026 Truck Safety Awards ceremony for their leadership, professionalism, and commitment to trucking safety.

The Louisiana Motor Transport Association Foundation recognized two trucking professionals for their commitment to safety and professionalism during its annual Truck Safety Awards ceremony, held in conjunction with the 2026 Louisiana Truck Driving Championships Awards ceremony.

The event celebrated outstanding achievements across Louisiana’s trucking industry while recognizing drivers and safety professionals whose work continues to improve highway safety throughout the state.

Casey Driggers of Custom Transport received the 2026 Louisiana Safety Professional of the Year award for his leadership in developing and maintaining a strong safety culture within his organization. According to the LMTA Foundation, Driggers oversees safety efforts covering more than 20 million annual miles and nearly 300 employees. His work includes implementing driver training programs, strengthening accountability, and introducing safety technologies that have produced measurable results.

The LMTA names Casey Driggers (left) as Louisiana Safety Professional of the Year and Charles James (right) as Louisiana Professional Truck Driver of the Year. Both are pictured with LMTA SMC vice chair Richard Elliott. (Source: LMTA)

The association recognized his contributions, stating:

“His commitment to driver development, open communication and collaboration with industry and enforcement partners has strengthened both company and public safety. His leadership and dedication make him a deserving recipient of this year’s award.”

Charles James of New South Express was named the 2026 Louisiana Professional Truck Driver of the Year after building an exceptional record behind the wheel. Over the past seven years, James has logged approximately 700,000 accident-free miles while maintaining a clean driving record with no preventable crashes, moving violations, or DOT recordable incidents.

The LMTA Foundation described his accomplishments by saying:

“James was selected as the 2026 Louisiana Professional Truck Driver of the Year for his exceptional safety record and professionalism. Over the past seven years, he has logged approximately 700,000 accident-free miles while maintaining a spotless driving record, including no preventable crashes, moving violations, or DOT-recordable incidents. Known for his reliability, positive attitude, and commitment to safety, James consistently demonstrates excellence behind the wheel while serving as a strong representative of the trucking industry. His dedication and professionalism make him a deserving recipient of this year’s award.”

Recognizing Safety Across the Industry

While the individual awards highlighted two transportation professionals, the ceremony also recognized the broader role safety plays throughout Louisiana’s trucking industry.

“Safety professionals and professional drivers are the backbone of our industry,” said Renee Amar, executive director of the LMTA Foundation. “Casey and Charles represent the very best of Louisiana trucking through their commitment to safety, leadership, and service. Their dedication helps make our roads safer and strengthens the reputation of our industry every day.”

The LMTA Foundation also honored two law enforcement officers for their commitment to highway safety and their partnership with the trucking industry.

Additional information about the 2026 Officers of the Year from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Police and the Louisiana State Police is available on the LMTA website.

The LMTA Foundation has also published the complete list of winners from the 2026 Louisiana Truck Driving Championships. Drivers interested in learning more about this year’s competition and award recipients can find additional information on the LMTA website.