“You always have to think safety.”
Derrick Thorpe, Professional Truck Driver, TForce Freight
Derrick Thorpe from New Jersey is a professional truck driver for TForce Freight. As a local Pick-Up and Delivery (P&D) driver, he hauls all types of merchandise throughout his community — from sheetrock and toilet paper to food and clothing. He makes about 18–20 stops on average throughout the day.
Derrick has been driving for 16 years and has accumulated 1.6 million accident-free miles. “I’ve never had an accident or injury while driving,” Derrick proudly told TMAF. He serves as a trucking ambassador on America’s Road Team Captains for 2022–2023.
While Derrick was fascinated by trucks from an early age, he did not join the trucking industry until later in his career. After serving in the U.S. Navy for six years, Derrick worked as a computer engineer for 20 years. He also served in elected office for four years as Commissioner on the Planning Board for his city of Rahway in New Jersey and worked to help rejuvenate the city by bringing new development to the area. Derrick said, “I’ve worn a lot of different hats throughout my career.”
Derrick decided to join the trucking industry after his friend encouraged him to explore a career in trucking. He said, “I always enjoyed trucks as a little kid; I loved them.” Derrick explained, “I became fascinated with trucks after my father’s friend took me for a ride in his truck on a Saturday. Hearing the engine roar, sitting up high — I got hooked on trucks!” Joining the industry was “full circle” for Derrick.
As a safety trainer for his company, Derrick trains other drivers and new hires throughout two terminals. Speaking about the importance of safety, Derrick said, “You always have to think safety. When you are out there driving, you have people’s families and loved ones out there too. If you are driving a big truck, you have to be a professional all the time. Safety is part of being a professional. Without safety, I wouldn’t go home to my family, and you wouldn’t go home to yours.” He added, “Safety is a choice, not a chance.”
Derrick also likes to educate other motorists, especially young drivers, about how to drive safely alongside trucks. He said, “I always say this — if you’re behind any truck and you cannot see their mirrors, that means the driver can’t see you. I always leave that safety tip with others.”
One memorable moment in Derrick’s career was a time when he was able to help a fellow driver on the road. He said, “I was driving and saw a pretty bad accident. I stopped, got out of my truck, and went over to the car. Thank god I tended to the person because the man was having a heart attack.” Derrick pulled the man out of the car, called 911 and stayed there with the man — talking with him and helping keep him calm while they waited for the police. Because of Derrick’s swift action, assistance and heroism, the man survived. “He survived; I was able to save him,” Derrick said.
