What is the symbolic role of the truck driver in Chapter 2 of The Grapes of Wrath?

The truck driver represents the need for "random acts of
kindness" in a setting as bad as the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression.  The fact that
the driver has a sign in the truck indicating that he is not supposed to take
hitchhikers represents how individuals in this challenging time period are driven by
self- interest or self- preservation.  Yet, when the driver violates this by giving Tom
Joad a ride represents how, in the most basic of senses, individuals have to look out
for one another in challenging times when no one else is providing for the general
welfare.  While the driver is suspicious of Tom, this does not prevent him from helping
out someone in need.  While there are many characters loaded with symbolism, the truck
driver might not possess as much importance.  Yet, Steinbeck does not miss an
opportunity to display how there has to be some level of empathy and concern for others
in a context where compassion for others was noticeably absent.