By Michelle Costa
The high gas prices are really digging into everyone's pockets, especially truck drivers. These truckers have had it and they aren't going to take anymore.
Truck drivers in our area said they're going to be driving to Boise next month to demand lower prices.
Patrick Montgomery's been a truck driver for more than thirty years. It's his life or it was. As of a few months ago, he stopped driving his 12-wheeler and focused on his towing business.
"I just couldn't make it with the big truck and I can barely make it with my towing truck," said Patrick Montgomery, Executive Director of UAITA.
He said it's something affecting every driver.
"The price of diesel fuel is killing us. Many drivers are going broke. Not making a profit," said Montgomery.
Truck drivers said it costs $700 to $800 to fill up every time. And, they're stopping just about every 75 miles, making every journey cost thousands of dollars.
Because of this, on June 15th, truckers are getting vocal.
"All of us gather together .... Drive up to Boise and circle that blooming thing. Shut it down ... Don't deliver the toilet paper. Then, they'll pay attention," said Montgomery.
Drivers said they're just not making any money.
"How much profit did you make? ‘Not much.' Was it worth it? ‘No. I'm surprised I still have a job'," said Tom Fuell, Truck driver.
"There's not much profit anywhere to be made. It costs an arm and a leg to move things from here to there. Bottom line is if you want to move things, you gotta do it," said Kerry Jensen, Truck driver.
"You're trying to make a living," said Montgomery.
Truck drivers said with only getting four to five miles to the gallon and the price of fuel already at over $4, something needs to be done.
The Idaho chapter of the United American Independent Truckers Association said if nothing happens after they've journeyed to Boise in June, they'll be on their way to the capitol.
