As customers are becoming well-versed with their requirements and preferences, the demand for different products is observing an upward trend.
However, for the producers and manufacturers, keeping up with shipping schedules and volume is turning into a daunting task.
They need the help of trucking companies to ensure an adequate supply of products in a timely manner.
Due to this, the outlook for trucking companies is quite optimistic…
Reports show that the global freight trucking market is expected to grow to US$5.5 Trillion by 2027 with a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 4%. This stunning growth rate invites more people to enter the trucking business and reap incredible benefits.
Unfortunately, not every person views this industry in a positive light. There are reports that discuss the involvement of trucking businesses, particularly truck stops, in human trafficking cases. Yes, you read it right! The victim of these awful acts is transported to new places via trucks and often forced to get indulged in sexual trade.
It is a violation of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA) and calls for legal action. In this article, we’ll discuss what TVPA is and how trucking business owners can protect themselves.
What Is TVPA?
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 is “mount a comprehensive and coordinated campaign to eliminate modern forms of slavery domestically and internationally,”
In simple terms, the act protects the former and current victims of trafficking. Takes appropriate action to prevent further cases, and works to prosecute its perpetrators.
Note: Getting indulged in a human trafficking lawsuit calls for the immediate need of a defense attorney, especially if the defendant is falsely accused or was unaware of such activity happening in their business.
What Steps Can Trucking Businesses Take To Prevent Violation Of TVPA?
It is indeed true that not every enterprise in this industry is involved in this type of illegal activity. But, it does not mean that one should neglect the possibility of its workers violating the law. Remember that it’s better to be safe than sorry. So, you must take the following steps to protect yourself as well as your business.
- Stay Alert
As an owner, it is your responsibility to learn what is happening in and around your business. You must get a report of every shipment and transportation. If you find anything suspicious, question the same immediately. Ask the authorities to provide explanations for their particular actions.
In case you have a truck stop, monitor the area as much as possible. Are there any unknown teenagers or adults lingering around the area? If yes, you must report the same right away.
- Educate Your Employees
When your employees are not aware of the law, they can neglect even the visible signs of misconduct. Stating the obvious, it can get you in significant trouble. So, you must educate your employees, especially the new ones, about safe and ethical work practices.
Awareness about unlawful activities and their potential consequences will help mitigate the risk profoundly. You can contact the NGOs who can provide brief information to your employees and help improve their acts.
- Seek Assistance From Attorney
Things do not always go as planned! Even after your best efforts to keep your business away from unlawful activities, you can get into legal trouble– as, at the end of the day, it is your business or company that reported the crime. So, it would be wise to work with a sex crimes attorney to build your defense. An attorney can help find the evidence of your non-involvement with the act and protect you. They have knowledge about federal laws and prosecutor’s techniques, thus, helping reduce the penalties.
- Become A Defender
Last but not least, you can become a part of the Defenders USA group and pledge to avoid participating in any type of “commercial company” (Code word used for the involvement of a company in human trafficking and sex trade.)
Becoming a part of this group will have additional benefits, such as access to educational resources and tools. It will also help build a good defense if a situation turns out to be unfavorable for you and your company.
Final Words
As a trucking business owner, it is pretty hard to believe that one can get involved in such illegal activity. However, it is essential to never let your guards down and be alert about every business activity. Seeking assistance from an attorney will also come in handy to protect yourself and your business from lawsuits.
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