Historically, males have dominated the trucking industry, but more women are driving trucks now than ever before. However, this change is slow. Out of more than 3.5 million truck drivers in the US, only 6% are women. In an effort to be more inclusive, employers are recruiting more female truck drivers. For example, Roadmaster Group, an Arizona-based company, truck drivers are 37% female.
But Are Women as Good as Men Behind the Wheel?
Yes! Statistics have even shown that women may even be better truck drivers:
- Female truckers have fewer ‘avoidable accidents’ than male truckers (3.41% compared to 3.44%).
- Female truckers have a lower turnover rate than male drivers (35% compared to 49%).
- Female truckers are generally less aggressive and get fewer traffic violations such as “excessive overspeed”, “hard braking” and other signals that could cause accidents.
- Female truckers tend to drive more miles because they often drive in teams. This means they can switch with their partner when one reaches their driving limit.
Why Should Women Become Truck Drivers?
Women in trucking earn equal pay to their male counterparts. With their proven better safety records, more women truckers are being recruited daily by companies who are invested in being represented better on the roads.
With the current shortage of drivers in the trucking industry, trucking companies are seeking more women drivers. Several support groups like Women in Trucking Association, and REAL Women in Trucking have been created to help women find the best trucking jobs, find driving teams, and help navigate any problems they may face in the industry.
The road for female truckers gets a little bit smoother every day. Truck-stop facilities have been improved to guarantee safety and comfort; harassment reports are acted upon quickly; plans are in place to eliminate any physical limitations in truck cabs, and women everywhere are being informed about their untapped potential. So, there is no unbeatable problem stopping women from getting behind the wheel of a big rig. If you are a good driver, enjoy traveling, love trucks, and want to earn a rewarding income, all you need is a dose of confidence and determination to get your dream job.
