“If 2026 could bring one change for drivers, what would you wish for?”

The responses revealed strong patterns. While individual opinions varied, the same core issues appeared again and again: pay, parking, respect, standards, and control over time on the road. Below is what drivers told us, in their own words.

Pay, Rates, and Being Paid for All Time Worked

Compensation dominated the conversation. Drivers spoke less about bonuses and more about fairness, transparency, and being paid for the time they actually work.

Gary Hubbs said, “Pay raises across the board.”

Andrew Cook wrote, “Better pay.”

Rick Tognoli shared, “Better rates.”

Russell Schmeling added, “Higher rates.”

Brian McCormick said, “To be paid according to our importance.”

Jason Workman wrote, “Pay increase.”

Gene Gretza stated, “Better freight pay.”

Ray Mclear said, “Over time, after 40 hours.”

Glenn Watson wrote, “Pay all the overtime money owed to them. A 70-hour work week is not average. Give them the 30-hour overtime they have earned.”

Damon Folks added, “Pay for ALL time spent in the rig except maybe the reset.”

Justin Palmer said, “Reduce the number of hands in the pot. Drivers do the lion’s share of the work and should receive the lion’s share of the revenue.”

Parking and the Loss of Real Truck Stops

Parking was one of the most repeated concerns, especially the lack of reliable overnight options and basic amenities.

Troy Johnston said, “Free parking and real truck stops with 24 hr restaurants like the good old days.”

Thomas Roberts wrote, “Lots of parking.”

Jon Carpenter added, “Adequate parking.”

Tereza Melnick said, “Lots, lots, lots, lots of parking.”

Jeff Swenson shared, “More parking, better parking, nicer amenities, safer experience, no bad actors.”

Respect and Professionalism on the Road

Many drivers pointed to a decline in courtesy and respect, both from the public and within the industry.

L’homme Du Peuple said, “Respect from shipper, and receiver.”

Audra K. Bennion wrote, “More respect from 4 wheelers and greater appreciation from the public.”

Todd Bartlett added, “Courtesy towards others.”

Evelyn Hoekstra said, “Courtesy would go a long way.”

Jan Rhodes wrote, “RESPECT from and towards ALL drivers and road users.”

Training, Standards, and Experience Expectations

Drivers consistently called for stronger standards and better preparation before drivers are sent out on the road.

Dan Rodesky said, “Implement a graduated pay-based experience scale. Key keyword here is standards.”

Bob Jones wrote, “To be a dispatcher, you must have at least 5 years of over-the-road experience.”

Charles McCrimmon said, “Far more intensive training with learning how to shift a manual is mandatory.”

Mike Hunter added, “Update the testing process, making it significantly more difficult.”

Peggy Roan shared, “Hire only drivers with 6 to 10 years of experience.”

Logs, Hours of Service, and Control Over Fatigue

Scheduling flexibility and fatigue management were another major theme.

Sabrena Cox said, “Let us drive when we feel good and stop and sleep when and how long we want.”

Shad Everett wrote, “Paper logs.”

Craig Farr added, “Paper logs.”

Barry Allen said, “No mandatory 30-minute break.”

Pete Harralson wrote, “Get rid of the 14-hour rule.”

Stephen Keys added, “Do away with the 70-hour rule.”

Health, Lifestyle, and Long-Term Sustainability

Drivers also highlighted the need for healthier, more sustainable lives on the road.

Sarah Conkle said, “Healthy sleep schedules, healthy lifestyles, gyms at truck stops, healthy, real hearty food options.”

Scott Lang added, “Cheaper fuel and insurance.”

John Goss wrote, “RETIREMENT.”

What These Responses Say

Drivers are not asking for perfection. They are asking for fairness, respect, and an industry that recognizes experience and responsibility. Pay matters, but so does parking, safety, professionalism, and having a life beyond the truck.

The post Truck Drivers Sound Off on the Changes They Want to See in 2026 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The award, sponsored by Great West Casualty Company, highlights individuals, companies, and organizations that elevate the trucking industry’s image through safety, professionalism, and community involvement.

Antoine Sadler: A Career of Commitment and Miles

Antoine Sadler is a second-generation truck driver with a career spanning 29 years and more than 2.7 million safe driving miles. His dedication goes beyond the cab: Sadler participates in North Carolina’s Road Team, Walmart’s Road Team, and America’s Road Team.

He has competed in numerous truck driving championships, demonstrating both skill and pride in his craft. Outside of driving, Sadler has been active in the Trucking Association of Tennessee, serving on the board since 2021, helping launch the Man to Man campaign, and maintaining the TAT Freedom Drivers Project trailer. His volunteer work includes supporting Special Olympics, National Night Out, and Samaritan’s Feet.

Trucking Association of New York: Building the Next Generation of Drivers

The Trucking Association of New York (TANY) has been making a real difference through its Community Supervision initiative, helping more than 55 people earn their commercial driver’s licenses since 2023. By connecting individuals with stable, well-paying careers, TANY strengthens both the lives of participants and the trucking workforce with trained, motivated drivers.

Since 2018, TANY has also supported the Transportation Club at the Charter School for Applied Technologies High School in Buffalo. What started as a small program has grown into a thriving hub where students gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to transportation careers.

“Each year, the Mike Russell Award highlights the creativity and dedication of those who work tirelessly to share our industry’s story,” said Nikki Thomas, VP of Industry Affairs for ATA. “This year’s recipients have gone above and beyond in showcasing the essential role trucking plays in our daily lives and the pride that drives our workforce.”

Why This Matters for Drivers

For truckers on the road, awards like this reinforce the value of professionalism, safe driving, and community engagement. From mentoring the next generation to volunteering locally, both Sadler and TANY exemplify how truck drivers can make a lasting impact beyond the cab.

Image Source: ATA

Source: Truckers News

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