The Louisiana Motor Transport Association (LMTA) Foundation recognized outstanding contributions to trucking safety and professionalism through its annual Truck Safety Awards program.

Casey Driggers of Custom Transport was named Louisiana Safety Professional of the Year, and Charles James of New South Express received the Louisiana Professional Truck Driver of the Year award. Both honorees exemplify the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and leadership, making significant contributions to their companies, the trucking industry, and the motoring public.

The awards were presented during the LMTA Foundation's Truck Safety Awards Ceremony, held June 20, 2026, at the Cajundome Event Center in Lafayette, Louisiana. The ceremony was conducted in conjunction with the 2026 Louisiana Truck Driving Championships Awards Ceremony, which celebrated Louisiana's top professional truck drivers and industry safety achievements.

Louisiana Safety Professional of the Year: Casey Driggers

Driggers was selected as the 2026 Louisiana Safety Professional of the Year for his outstanding leadership in creating a strong culture of safety throughout his organization. Overseeing safety efforts across more than 20 million annual miles and nearly 300 employees, he has implemented effective training, accountability measures, and safety technologies that have produced measurable results.

His commitment to driver development, open communication, and collaboration with industry and enforcement partners has strengthened both company and public safety. His leadership and dedication make him a deserving recipient of this year's award.

Louisiana Professional Truck Driver of the Year: Charles James

James was selected as the 2026 Louisiana Professional Truck Driver of the Year for his exceptional safety record and professionalism. Over the past seven years, he has logged approximately 700,000 accident-free miles while maintaining a spotless driving record, including no preventable crashes, moving violations, or DOT-recordable incidents.

Known for his reliability, positive attitude, and commitment to safety, James consistently demonstrates excellence behind the wheel while serving as a strong representative of the trucking industry. His dedication and professionalism make him a deserving recipient of this year's award.

"Safety professionals and professional drivers are the backbone of our industry," said Renee Amar, Executive Director of the LMTA Foundation. "Casey and Charles represent the very best of Louisiana trucking through their commitment to safety, leadership, and service. Their dedication helps make our roads safer and strengthens the reputation of our industry every day."

The LMTA Foundation also recognized two outstanding law enforcement officers for their commitment to highway safety and partnership with the trucking industry. To learn more about the 2026 Officers of the Year from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Police and Louisiana State Police, click here.

For additional information on the 2026 Louisiana Truck Driving Championships and a complete list of award winners, click here.

About the LMTA Foundation

The LMTA Foundation was established in 2013 as a non-profit organization to fund education, public relations, and research projects for the Louisiana trucking industry. The Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors and is an all-volunteer organization. The mission is to enhance the understanding of and image of the Louisiana trucking industry, increase highway safety and pursue workforce solutions for the industry. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.lmta.foundation.

Casey Driggers of Custom Transport (L) with LMTA SMC Vice Chair Richard Elliott (R).

Charles James of New South Express (L) with LMTA SMC Vice Chair Richard Elliott (R).