Jerry Brown of Jonesville, NC, has been named 2006 Driver of the Year by the Truck Renting and Leasing Assn. Over the past 31 years, Brown has driven 2.9-million miles without a single preventable accident.

“Jerry Brown was chosen 2006 Driver of the Year because of his outstanding driving record, and his years of volunteer services to the local community,” said Peter J. Vroom, president & CEO of TRALA.

Sponsored by Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co., TRALA gave the award to Brown at its annual meeting last month in San Diego. In addition to an all-expense paid trip to the event for Brown and his wife, he received a trophy and a cash prize.

Brown drives for Unifi, Inc., a diversified producer and processor of multi-filament polyester and nylon textured yarns and related raw materials.