Chicago, IL — NAL Insurance has reopened nominations for its Drivers of the Month program, kicking off a new round of recognition that will run through the end of 2026. The initiative invites truck drivers, fleet managers and trucking companies to submit nominations by the end of September for a chance to win a Tim Hortons gift card, social media spotlight, and a custom gift up to $250.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the trucking industry proved to be the backbone of the nation’s supply chain. With grocery shelves empty, hospitals in crisis, and the economy in turmoil, drivers kept essential goods moving across the country. NAL Insurance’s “Thank a Trucker” initiative originally supplied meals and personal protective equipment to drivers on the road, a program that evolved into the current monthly recognition effort once the economy began to recover.
The new nomination window is supported by a wide coalition of industry partners, including Rosedale Transport, Bison Transport, Carmen Transportation, Canadian Truck Warranty, Challenger Motor Freight, Fleet Safety Council, Highlight Motor Group, Industrial Alliance, KRTS Transportation Specialists, LUMA Brighter Learning, North York Rehabilitation Centre, Purves Redmond Limited, Revolution Staffing, Seaboard Transportation Group, Titanium Transport, and Verspeeten Cartage. NAL Insurance encourages anyone with a story about a driver who went above and beyond to submit photos and a brief description of why the driver deserves recognition.
What This Means for Drivers
For CDL‑A holders and owner‑operators, the program offers a tangible incentive to maintain high safety and service standards. The $250 gift can help offset routine maintenance costs, purchase new safety gear, or reward a team for a successful delivery season. Fleet managers can use nominations as a morale‑boosting tool, showcasing exemplary drivers on internal newsletters or social media feeds. The public recognition also serves as a marketing asset, allowing carriers to highlight their commitment to driver welfare in a competitive market where trucking companies are hiring aggressively.
Industry Reaction
Carriers across the Midwest have welcomed the renewed focus on driver appreciation. A spokesperson from Bison Transport noted that “recognizing the hard work of our drivers not only boosts morale but also strengthens our brand as a driver‑friendly carrier.” Owner‑operators in the Chicago area reported that the program’s visibility helps them attract better loads and build stronger relationships with shippers who value reliable, courteous drivers.
Key Points
- Nomination window opens September 1, 2026, and closes September 30, 2026.
- Winning drivers receive a Tim Hortons gift card, a $250 gift package, and social media exposure.
- Program supported by 18 industry partners, ranging from transport firms to safety councils.
- Nomination requires driver’s name, fleet, photos, and a brief justification.
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