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Independent truckers are striking to protest the rising cost of gas, saying they can't make ends meet with fuel prices this high.
According to AAA, the average cost of diesel nationwide is $4.02. That's up from about $2.85 a year ago. The average in Colorado is slightly lower, at $3.97.
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association says, gas prices make it hard to stay in business. Some truckers passing through Monument during the strike have already had to give up independent trucking.
Larry Castillo understands what independent truckers are going through. When gas prices rise, its hard to make ends meet.
"You're lucky if you can afford two meals a day sometimes," he said.
And they can't support their families even as they miss them while on the road. "30 days, 60 days without our families, trying to make a living, but we can't," he said.
Just two months ago, he packed it in, after two years as an independent driver.
"I decided it was best to stop operating the vehicle and become a company driver for awhile," he said.
It was pretty good for awhile, but when the price went up higher, it wasn't enough," said Theodore Barasation. He has a similar story. Barasation says he had to give up as an owner and operator even before he found a new job.
Meanwhile the truck payment is still due, the maintenance, and all the other expenses......"
He and Castillo say they support the independent truckers in their strike. "At least we can show them, you know, we don't want to put up with these fuel prices like this," said Castillo. He hopes elected officials will step in to help, but he knows it could be a long road ahead.
Truckers are planning to continue the strike for a few more days. Some say the strike might pressure President Bush to use the nation's oil reserves to stabilize prices, but others are doubtful, partly because companies are not on board with the strike.
