Online RR Series: A Healthy Fleet, A Stronger Bottom Line: What Leaders Need to Know About Driver Well-being-A Healthy Fleet, A Stronger Bottom Line: What Leaders Need to Know About Driver Well-being Course

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The fifth webinar in TCA’s 2026 Recruitment and Retention Series explored how driver health affects safety, retention, and fleet performance. Project 61 founder Jeremy Raymer and Garner Trucking COO Tim Krulski emphasized that drivers face persistent health challenges—including limited access to nutritious food and health care, prolonged sitting, irregular sleep, and stress—because of the mobile nature of their work.<br /><br />The speakers argued that driver wellness and safety are closely connected: fatigue, stress, pain, and chronic conditions can affect alertness, judgment, and performance. They also discussed research linking shorter medical certification periods with higher crash risk, while noting that this association does not prove causation. Fleets can use health indicators as prompts for support, while respecting drivers’ privacy.<br /><br />Krulski described practical initiatives at Garner, including premium mattresses, inverters for cooking and sleep-apnea equipment, walking paths, healthier food options, exercise kits, wellness incentives, and employee assistance resources. He stressed that programs work best when they fit drivers’ routines, are voluntary, and are reinforced through consistent communication and leadership example.<br /><br />The panel encouraged fleets to start with manageable steps, build wellness into their culture, and support drivers through access, education, and genuine care. Investing in health may improve well-being, reduce medical costs, and prevent serious incidents—even when the benefits are difficult to measure. Raymer also invited fleets to participate in Project 61’s free resources and challenges, including its 61-day step challenge.

Keywords

driver wellness

fleet safety

retention

health challenges

truck driver health

fatigue management

wellness programs

medical certification

employee assistance

Project 61