Truckers Drive to make Dreams Come True in California

The Gold Rush of 1848 was the largest mass migration in U.S. history. Even today, dreamers still flock to the Golden State to find success for their careers and future.

California inspires actors, singers, and, yes, even big rig truck drivers! It’s no wonder that 1 in 8 residents live in the most populous state in the U.S.

Over the years, many migrants became merchants of food, goods, and supplies for eager consumers. That means California has lots of stores and businesses of all sizes. And, who do stores rely on daily? You got it – Truckers!

Economy

On average, a long-haul truck driver logs about 2,000 to 3,000 miles weekly.11 For some, that’s hauling across California’s 396,540 total road miles.

California’s innovative entrepreneurs and businesses have helped propel the vibrant state to become the fifth-largest economy in the world.

The state’s economic success, can in part, be attributed to truckers, who contribute to the U.S. economy by moving over 10 billion tons of freight each year. Drivers generate approximately $650 billion annually or about 5% of the American GDP.

Advocacy

The California Trucking Association (CTA) is the largest trucking trade association in the state and dedicates itself to promoting advocacy, safety, compliance, and leadership in the trucking industry.

CTA provides legislative and regulatory representation, leadership development, and education.

Some member benefits include:

• Savings programs
• Legal Advice, and
• Networking

Work and Wages

California prides itself on its strong commitment to working people.2 Truck drivers are among those who find work in the state.

The BLS reports 2020 national pay estimates for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers at $47,130 per year ($22.66/hr.)

In 2018, the trucking industry employed 7.4 million Americans — 5.8% of the 129 million full-time jobs in America that year.

Employment opportunities are plentiful, as truckers can choose from dozens of major trucking companies in the state.

Safety

California’s network of entities like CTA, California DOT (Caltrans), and the EPA ensure safety for its citizens, truck drivers and community.

Regulations from the EPA have cut exhaust output from trucks and off-road equipment by 95 percent over the past 19 years.

Caltrans manages more than 50,000 miles of the highway and freeway lanes. Caltrans’s mission is to “provide a safe and reliable transportation network that serves all people and respects the environment.” One of its primary goals is “Safety first.”