What are key ethical issues the trucking industry faces?

The trucking industry has some very real ethical concerns. With the emergence of the climate change debate came concerns over greenhouse gas emissions. Tons of hydrocarbons are sent into the atmosphere every year by trucks. Most trucks are not covered by a corporation and are individually handled, which makes a major switchover to biodiesel more difficult.

There are also issues with what is being transported on trucks. Many veteran truckers doctor their travel logs, avoiding weigh stations and checkpoints. Illegal goods are sometimes brought across state and country borders this way.

Many accidents by truckers are attributed to driver fatigue. The hours of operation in the trucking industry makes it so the drivers have to stay awake over the course of long hauls to get shipments at the right place on time. Hours need to be more flexible to allow for proper rest.

Since most truck drivers are freelancers, they are usually not covered by insurance. On-the-job injuries can be financially devastating to truckers. Companies should have more of a vested interest in their drivers, even if they are paying them out of pocket.

Finally, trucking may be a dying industry. The price of petroleum is increasing, and there are cheaper and faster ways to transport goods now-a-days, like via air. New truckers should rethink their decision before joining the trucking industry.

article: http://www.internationalvisioncollective.org/ethical-business/ethical-issues-in-the-trucking-industry/