Human trafficking exploits individuals into forced labor or sex trade through deception or force. Traffickers frequent truck stops, rest areas, and interstates, making truck drivers – those who also frequent those spaces – uniquely suited to spot and call attention to dangerous situations.
To help them do so, drivers can get certified to identify signs of human trafficking. Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) offers programs for drivers, law enforcement, the bus industry, and even convenience stores, to create a broad, knowledgeable coalition against trafficking.
But you can still help before getting certified. Consider downloading the TAT app or keeping a card in your wallet with the basic information. The hotline numbers are 888-373-7888 in the US and 833-900-1010 in Canada. In case of a crime in progress, TAT advises drivers to call 911. However, if there’s evidence of human trafficking, they should use the TAT hotline.
As a reminder, involvement in any form of sex trafficking using your commercial motor vehicle is a felony, and will result in the revocation of CDLs.
Why does this matter?
- Moral – Human trafficking denies freedom to thousands of Americans, and exploits, oppresses, and abuses those who are often least able to fight for themselves.
- Opportunity – Truckers park at truck stops and travel plazas, which are the very locations where traffickers attempt to sell victims. Truckers often have unique opportunities to observe and report these crimes.
- Business risks – If truckers see or suspect criminal activity but do not report it, that inaction can lead to risks for their companies, possibly including legal action and impounded loads.
- Financial – If loads are impounded, the trucking company suffers financially, due to lost revenue and potential legal fees.
You can be part of the solution. Visit www.truckersagainsttrafficking.org to learn how you can get involved.
