LANGLEY, B.C. — Lorne Hanson, a veteran driver of logging trucks, has received the B.C. Driver of the Year award for 2011 at the B.C. Trucking Association’s annual management conference in Kelowna. Hanson won for his 36-year, accident-free driving record, which includes 3.6 million kilometres without a preventable accident or injury.

Volvo Trucks Canada and BCTA sponsor the provincial Driver of the Year award annually to recognize and promote safe driving among professional drivers. In addition to excellent driving records, award winners have often distinguished themselves through service to their communities and acts of bravery.
 
For the last 27 years, Hanson has worked for family business Munden Ventures of Kamloops, transporting logs for the grandparents, parents and uncle of current president, Greg Munden. “Besides making safety a top priority, showing up every day and getting every load, knowing his equipment with the feel and sense that you can’t teach, and leading by example, Lorne is also the memory of the business,” said Munden.
 
Hanson’s experience driving everything from five-axle long log trucks in the 1970s for Munden’s grandparents to eight-axle short log trucks for Munden have put him in the unique position of being able to speak from experience when the company requires advice on introducing new methods and equipment. He has also applied his experience and standards in teaching other drivers for the company. Munden commended Hanson for the care he has taken of the Munden family’s name and reputation in his work over the years.

“We’re extremely proud to highlight Lorne’s career, especially as it’s something he would never do himself. Lorne is one of those quiet, consistent, knowledgeable drivers who set the standard for others. The industry could use thousands more like him,” said Louise Yako, BCTA’s president and CEO.
 
Terry Warkentin of Volvo Trucks Canada presented the award to Hanson along with a cheque for $500 from Volvo Trucks.