In what some are calling a “natural progression of detention pay,” a group of long-haul drivers has begun petitioning for compensation for time spent in truck stop restrooms.
“We log everything else – why not this?” asked flatbedder Neil Tragger, who claims he loses up to 14 minutes a day in what he calls “queue-based bodily delays.”
The movement, nicknamed “FlushTime Pay,” is gaining traction online, with memes featuring slogans like If it’s on the clock, it’s on the dock.
At the heart of the issue is growing frustration over wait times and lack of restroom availability at major truck stop chains. “I had to wait behind five guys just to wash up,” said owner-operator Melinda Rhodes. “That’s time I could’ve spent driving – or meditating behind the wheel.”
One anonymous carrier dismissed the request as “logistical nonsense,” but others are open to the idea, especially after one driver submitted photographic proof of a 23-minute delay in a Buc-ee’s stall.
Legal experts remain unsure how to classify the time. “It’s technically off-duty, but arguably unavoidable,” said transportation attorney Lyle Crumb. “It’s a slippery slope… pun intended.”
Some drivers have started using stopwatch apps to track their bathroom breaks. Others propose integrating restroom sensors into ELD systems.
In response, one truck stop chain said they’d consider offering a loyalty point system instead of cash payouts. “Maybe 5 minutes = 10 shower credits,” said a spokesperson for Pilot Flying J.
Teamsters have not officially responded, though one representative was overheard muttering, “Honestly, it was only a matter of time.”
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