Being on the road has been a lifestyle for drivers who have spent most of their lives driving. It’s where they make a living, and it’s what they know best. However, like with any other profession, retirement is inevitable. While some drivers have the luxury of choosing when to retire, it isn’t the case for many. In this blog post, we will discuss the results of a survey conducted on drivers regarding their thoughts on retirement and why it is not a choice for many.
A total of 812 drivers responded to the survey, 566 of which were company drivers, and 246 were leased owner-operators. The majority of the respondents are long-haul drivers, with 53% of the drivers falling under this category. However, what’s interesting is the age group of the respondents. 72% of the drivers who responded are over 55 years old, while only 2% are 34 and below. This means that the majority of the respondents are veterans in the industry, with many spending most of their lives on the road.
While many drivers are approaching retirement age, the decision to retire isn’t an easy one for most drivers. The survey found that 32% of the respondents haven’t decided when they will retire, while 26% said they are willing to continue driving as long as they’re healthy. This shows that driving is more than just a profession, it’s a lifestyle for many drivers.
Another reason why retirement isn’t a choice for many drivers is the lack of financial resources. Unlike other professions, drivers don’t typically have access to retirement plans or benefits. Many drivers are self-employed or work for small trucking companies that don’t provide such plans. This puts drivers in a difficult position, making it harder for them to retire comfortably.
Additionally, the lack of substantial savings makes it even harder for drivers to retire. Most drivers are paid by the mile, making their income inconsistent and unpredictable. With this, it makes it challenging for drivers to save for retirement, especially when unexpected expenses arise. This leaves many with no choice but to continue driving well past retirement age.
Conclusion
Driving for many is not just a profession, it’s a way of life. The survey conducted on drivers shows that retirement isn’t a choice for many in the industry, and this is due to several factors. While it’s important to have drivers on the road, it’s also important for the industry to provide incentives and benefits to ensure that drivers have a comfortable retirement. As we look forward to the future, it’s imperative that the government and the industry work together in addressing the concerns of drivers and provide viable solutions to support their needs.