National Truck Driver Appreciation Week: Vision Zero celebrates the drivers who keep North Dakota moving
STATEWIDE, N.D. – Vision Zero, in partnership with the North Dakota Motor Carriers Association (NDMCA), is proud to join the nation in celebrating National Truck Driver Appreciation Week from Sept. 14–20, 2025. This annual observance is a time to recognize the dedication of the 3.5 million professional truck drivers who tirelessly work to keep America moving.
“Truck drivers are the backbone of our economy and our communities,” said NDMCA President Paul Gibree. “Their hard work, dedication and commitment to safety make a difference every single day across North Dakota.”
Recognized as the NDMCA Driver of the Year, Don Huckins of Marvin Windows and Doors emphasized the pride professional drivers take in serving their communities.
“There’s a real pride in knowing that what we do matters. Whether it’s groceries, medicine, fuel – or in my case, the windows and doors that finish a home – we know our communities are counting on us and we take that responsibility seriously,” said Huckins.
During National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, Vision Zero encourages North Dakotans to show their support by sharing the road with large vehicles and taking personal responsibility by:
- Driving defensively – Stay alert to traffic flow, signals and weather.
- Avoiding blind spots – If you can’t see the driver’s face in their side mirror, they can’t see you.
- Passing safely, or not at all – Allow one car length for every 10 mph of speed before moving back in front of a truck (70 mph = 7 car lengths).
- Paying attention – Never cross behind a truck that’s backing up.
- Avoiding the “squeeze play” – Give trucks extra room when they swing wide to make turns.
“Safety is always top of mind. Our goal is to ensure drivers make it home to their families just like everyone else and that requires all road users to give them the space and attention needed to keep our roads safe,” said Bryce Allickson, NDMCA Safety Professional of the Year and Vice President of Human Resources & Risk Management for Magnum Transportation.
- Preliminary data from 2024 shows that 24% of North Dakota’s fatal crashes involved a commercial motor vehicle.
National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is now in its 37th year of honoring the men and women who keep America moving. Vision Zero encourages all North Dakotans to take a moment this week to thank a truck driver—whether it’s with a wave, a kind word or simply by driving safely.
Learn more about traffic safety initiatives at VisionZero.ND.gov