LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The American Trucking Associations has narrowed its search for the 2024 National Driver of the Year down to five elite professionals, each representing the pinnacle of safety and career longevity in the freight industry. Sponsored by DMC Insurance, the award recognizes the driver who best embodies the standards of the profession, with the winner set to be crowned during the ATA’s Safety, Security, and Human Resources National Conference and Exhibition held April 23–25.

Competition for the top spot is fierce, as the five finalists were selected from a pool of state-level winners nominated by trucking associations across the country. The evaluation process is intense, involving a panel of safety experts who scrutinize career achievements, video submissions, and long-term safety records. This recognition serves as a testament to the dedication required for a CDL-A driver to maintain a spotless record over millions of miles, often under demanding OTR schedules that test even the most experienced professionals.

The finalists include Jay Williams of TCW, Inc., who brings 20 years of service and 3 million accident-free miles to the table. Rollie Fugate of Walmart represents the veteran class with nearly 47.5 years of experience and 6 million accident-free miles. Michael Bortz, representing Sorensen Transport, enters the fold with 43 years on the road and 4.85 million accident-free miles. Danny Tankersly of WEL Companies holds an 11-time company driver of the year title and 4.6 million accident-free miles, while Thomas Miller of Prime Inc. rounds out the group with 3.8 million accident-free miles and a history as an ATA America’s Road Team Captain.

What This Means for Drivers

For the average CDL-A driver, these finalists represent the achievable ceiling for a professional career. Maintaining a clean safety record over decades proves that adherence to FMCSA regulations and defensive driving habits remains the most valuable asset an operator can possess. Many trucking companies are hiring drivers who prioritize these same safety benchmarks, often offering higher pay and better equipment to those who treat the road with respect. Whether you are an owner-operator or a company man, the spotlight on these five individuals reinforces that safety is the most reliable path to career stability and professional respect.

Industry Reaction

The trucking industry continues to emphasize that safety is not just a regulatory hurdle but the core of a sustainable business model. By highlighting drivers with millions of accident-free miles, the ATA is effectively shifting the narrative toward long-term retention and excellence rather than just turnover. This annual competition serves as a reminder to fleets and independent contractors alike that the industry values those who prioritize human life and cargo security above the pressures of the clock.

Key Points

• Finalists represent a combined total of millions of accident-free miles driven across diverse sectors.
• The selection process is governed by the Safety Management Council Awards & Recognition Committee.
• The winner will be announced at the ATA National Conference in Louisville, Kentucky.
• Each candidate must be a state-level winner to qualify for the national title.

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