The co-drivers think it’s great to be back in a big truck during the annual truckers’ day. It is a large and deafening horn procession, in which driver and VIPs with a disability make a tour through our province. That was the first time in ages, because corona threw a spanner in the works. And then the safety rules were also tightened up after an accident in Overijssel.
The truckers day in Vlijmen may continue this Saturday. A line has already been drawn through those of Peelland and Tilburg. These have been assessed as too unsafe, because the co-drivers’ assistants often sit in the truck without a seatbelt. Because not all cars have a third seat, they often sit on the cot in the cabin. And if the brakes are applied unexpectedly, that person will fly through the cabin.
More organizers of truck runs are concerned about this. Insurance is a problem at almost half of these events in our province. Some truck runs have therefore been cancelled. In other cases, a suitable solution is sought.
In Vlijmen they do not have these concerns, as evidenced by the colorful procession that passes by. The co-drivers have a disability, but are all able to walk. “They can climb into the car themselves and sit comfortably in their seats,” says a driver next to his ‘VIP’ Petra. Supervisors can therefore ride in a separate van in the parade. “And we have an organization car every 25 cars,” adds chairman Leon Koolen.
“I don’t know whose smile is bigger: the trucker or the co-driver.”
Beaming with pride, he is waiting for the procession at the provincial house in Den Bosch. The VIPs have just made their first round from Cromvoirt, eat here and then continue their journey. “I don’t know whose smile is bigger,” says Koolen. “With the trucker or the co-driver.”
The chairman hopes that a way will be found to allow the other editions to continue as well. Of course in a safe way. By placing a third seat in the cabin, for example. Like in a teaching car. Or by choosing only participants who do not need constant guidance.
Koolen: “It will take some arranging, but this day is so important. It’s connection, everyone is beaming.”
READ ALSO: Truck run Tilburg and Peelland cancelled: ‘Many participants disappointed’
