Owner Operators – Now Is The Time To Stand Up For Yourselves!

By Lina Demedieros

In 2007, we made many attempts to bring forth some of the core issues surrounding the owner operator & driver market. Namely benefits and how this is impacting some of the best quality human resources in trucking, owner operators.

We learned why you buy only catastrophic benefits that later put you out of business not to mention anything else. I spoke to some amazing men that have tried for many years and have done similar research like ours to help you gain the status. But now is the time to stand up and be counted.

We want to hear from you. In 1994-2007 we learned that the majority of owner operators only bought catastrophic benefits injury only contracts in the name of what you love to do, but we only hear from some on how this is impacting you and making it hard to survive.

We only heard from those who were already out of the game, how they had no income while they were down and yet there were no formal complaints or motions to move this for-ward. I have heard safety and compliance officers from various companies commend me in my efforts in this industry, while other companies taking the time and mandating that “proper coverage” should be afforded to all you, our “unsung hero’s”. I spoke to the financial community telling them what you should be sold. I approached trucking organizations and associations for help without your support. They heard me but I had so few of you to make a difference.

So, for 2008 I am asking owner operators who are dedicated readers of a publication, who has been so focused on owner operators to call, email or write us about what really matters to you. We under-stand its compensation while understanding that many of you are not united in spite of the fact there really is a huge brother-hood among you.

We spoke to the deputy minister, the labour board, accountants, lawyers, paralegals but still at the end of the day there was nothing done, since you lacked the motivation. If 2007 would be my last year of writing this column, I would want you to know that not only did I try, I invested time, money and energy to help you and the companies you represent to work harmonious and educate you on running your businesses. My success is limited to your passive approach and yet you never met me. I feel your pain every day; some of your brothers pains, and yet nothing was done. Why?

“Fear”. Fear can destroy us and also enable us to do so much that can not only impact our own lives but the lives of so many; including your own families. My fear is that you will never be heard or buy benefits that will never pay or pay you short term. It seems that you’re missing the very component that would help you recover in a contract so misunderstood by many, namely alternatives to wsib a.k.a. disability insurance.

Your fear is that you will never receive a fair wage, never get benefits and simply never receive a pension. But at the end of each year, how did we make it better? Who helped us move forward in doing the things we love. I have many men that not only read this column but that I have done business with for over 13 years. These men did not fear my approach but embraced their fears. Their hopes are to make it a better place for the future of men or women coming into this business by simply telling them what they needed to know and not just provide them a temporary solution with no future.

We spoke to various organizations all related to the trucking industry. After 13 years in this industry, I suddenly understood I need more input from “independents” all across Canada. So this month, I wanted to tell you what I have done on your behalf and I need your help.

Tell us that you really want a voice to represent you and call, send a letter via email or mail and let’s make a difference in 2008. Do you really have representation in this industry? Here’s looking at 2008 as a year to promote “education” to the owner operator community.

If you have any questions or comments call Lina M. Demedeiros, living benefits specialist, E & O.E. at 800-236-5810.