Universal Intermodal Drivers At LA, Long Beach Ports Vote To Join Teamsters Drivers at Universal Intermodal Services at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach have voted to join Teamsters Local 848 , marking the seventh company at the ports to employ workers represented by the union. There are 28 drivers in the bargaining unit. Workers say they are seeking affordable health insurance, wage increases and retirement benefits. "Every single one of us, my coworkers, we all have different reasons for joining the union," said Universal driver David Lopez. "My first and foremost reason is because of dental insurance." David Lopez, Driver, Universal Intermodal Services (Image: Justice for Port Drivers) Lopez, 50, spoke to FreightWaves through an interpreter. He said he doesn't have health or dental insurance because the Universal plan is too expensive. The pay is inadequate, he added and in addition to other benefits a Teamsters contract would ensure workers had access to due process. Representatives from Universal Intermodal and its parent company, Universal Logistics (NASDAQ: ULH ), did not respond to FreightWaves' requests for comment.