Podcast: The Secret to Winning the Fight for Truckers’ Rights

Trucking is more than just moving freight, it’s a way of life. But in an industry facing growing regulations, financial challenges, and shifting policies, truckers need a strong voice more than ever. In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto sits down with Lewie Pugh, executive vice president of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association to explore why truckers must take control of their future, the fight for fair regulations, and how to stay profitable in a changing industry.

The Origins of OOIDA and Why Truckers Need a Voice

OOIDA is not just some new organization that started six months ago; it was founded back in 1973, a time when truckers were suffering. As fuel prices skyrocketed and regulations tightened, independent truckers knew they needed to walk the walk. What began as a small grassroots effort was soon a mighty advocacy organization representing truckers on Capitol Hill.

“At the time, fuel prices were skyrocketing, and truckers were speaking up. A few truckers got together and decided they’d go to Washington, D.C., tell the government their problems, get them fixed, and get right back on the road. Well, they did that, and they realized right away that it was going to take a little more effort, if not a lot more effort.” Lewie shares.

Since then, OOIDA has been fighting against unfair regulations, advocating for fair pay, and ensuring that truckers have a say in the laws that affect their businesses.

Why Truckers Must Engage with Lawmakers

One of the biggest issues facing truckers today is the lack of representation in Washington. Many regulations are crafted without the input of the very people they impact the most, truckers. Lewie emphasizes that truckers need to step up and make their voices heard.

“You are the expert in your industry. Nobody can tell the lawmakers what is harming or helping your industry better than you.

OOIDA provides tools and resources to help truckers connect with lawmakers, making it easier than ever to advocate for fair policies. “We’ve got a website, Fighting for Truckers, where you can find your lawmakers’ phone numbers and emails, or you can message them directly. Just call, be nice, be professional, but be direct.”

The Hidden Costs of Trucking Regulations

While regulations are often introduced in the name of safety and efficiency, many have unintended consequences that hurt truckers’ ability to operate profitably. Lewie explains that one major issue is how ELDs (electronic logging devices) and speed limiters have changed the industry.

“The only time drivers get paid is when they’re driving. What we hear constantly is they feel like they’re playing ‘beat the clock’ because they only have a certain amount of time, and they feel like they’re rushed. They don’t have the time to stop and eat correctly or do other necessary things.”

This increased pressure has changed the trucking landscape. “Truckstops are doing away with sit-down restaurants and 24-hour diners because truckers aren’t using them anymore. Instead, they grab a sandwich from a building with a clown above the door and keep rolling, which leads to health problems and other issues.” Lewie explains how OOIDA is pushing back against these regulations and fighting for policies that reflect the realities of the trucking industry.

Why Every Trucker Needs to Know Their Numbers

For independent truckers, knowledge of your business finances is the secret to long-term success. Truckers will fail because they don’t monitor their expenses or their cost per mile.

“Knowing your numbers is power. If you don’t know what it costs to run your truck, you’re already losing money. You need to track everything, your fuel, maintenance, expenses, to stay profitable.”

OOIDA offers educational resources, including Truck to Success, to help truckers build sustainable businesses. “Financial knowledge and proper planning are key elements of success in the trucking industry. If you know your numbers, you can negotiate better rates and avoid bad freight deals.”

Ensuring Rate Transparency: Protecting Truckers from Unfair Contracts

One of the biggest obstacles independent truckers must deal with is brokers that fail to give essential information about freight rates. Lewie warns truckers to be cautious when signing any contract and to take their time to go through the contracts before signing.

“A good broker won’t be afraid of rate transparency. If they’re hiding something, it’s probably not good for the trucker. Truckers deserve to know what they’re getting paid and ensure they’re not being undercut.”

OOIDA is fighting to enforce Regulation 371.3, which requires brokers to disclose freight rates. Many truckers unknowingly give up this right when they sign agreements, putting themselves at a disadvantage.

What’s Next for Trucking?

As trucking continues to transform, Lewie highlights the key challenges drivers face today, which include rising regulations, limited truck parking, and fluctuating freight rates. He emphasizes the importance of staying informed and engaged in industry discussions to help shape a better future for truckers.

“If you’re a trucker, you need to be involved. Whether it’s OOIDA or another group, you have to stand up for your rights, because if you don’t, no one else will.”

Lewie is still hopeful about the direction trucking is headed and thinks that, given the right support and community backing, truckers can take charge of their businesses and bring about real change. His path from driving trucks to speaking in Washington shows that sticking with it and working hard can make a big difference.

To hear more about Lewie Pugh’s insights and advocacy efforts, listen to this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.