Are you a new trucker on the road? You’re probably already prepared for the long drives, early mornings, and life on the open highway, but how do you make sure this journey is successful? To help steer you in the right direction, we asked our community of truckers to share their best advice for those just starting out. Whether it’s tips on staying attentive behind the wheel or strategies for planning efficient routes, read on to discover tried-and-true guidance from experienced professionals who have been putting miles under their tires for years.
Here are a few tidbits of wisdom that were shared in the post.
“Show respect for other truck drivers. If you can’t pass, get out of the fast Lane , and don’t take your break at the fuel Island.” –Darren L
“Never stop learning! Sit down at a truck stop diner, listen to the veterans talk.” –Joel L
“Be patient, don’t get spun up about every little thing that happens on the road. Do your pre-trip every time.” –Stacey D
“If your tired pull over it aint worth it get some rest seen way to many drivers crash simply because they needed a quick nap and don’t let dispatch tell you you can’t stop when you need to.” –Colby G
“1) Plan your route, have a plan A & plan B already in mind as in knowing where you’re gonna park it for the night.
2) use your turn signals often, it lets everyone know your intentions
3) always know where the rear of your trailer is, ALWAYS.” –Bradly V
“Training, Training, Training. Give respect to drivers no matter what they drive, how old they, are or what name they call God.” –Gilbert D
“Safety is inexpensive no matter how much you spend or don’t earn!
Check mirrors often. Changing lanes only 1/3 of distance per move. Recheck mirror each time you take a 1/3.
Watch for those who are gaining on you. Slowing down a few seconds to allow a quicker and safer pass doesn’t cost much in pay and prevents snail races!” –Patrick R
“1. Do your pre- & post-trips, 2. Get a CB and turn it on, so that they will know road conditions. 3. Slow down. 4. Don’t park on fuel islands. 5. Check your mirrors. 6. Keep emergency food and supplies in your truck. 7. Pull over if you get sleepy, no load is worth your life or the lives of others. 8. When backing get out and look.” –Lakelya BH
“Don’t listen to anybody saying not to try it. I love traveling and this is pretty much my dream job and I have an absolute blast almost every day. The worst day out on the road still outweighs the best day in a warehouse in my opinion.” –Joe K
“1. It’s not a race
2. Don’t let other vehicles, drivers or conditions outside your truck cause you to make poor decisions.
3. Learn something every single day.” –Doug W
“Here’s a big one…when you are tired……pull over and rest. The amount of accidents that slow me down on a daily basis because of drivers falling asleep blows my mind. There’s is not one person who is gonna get mad because you chose to do the right thing.” –Joey S
“1. Develop some common sense.
2. Show respect for fellow drivers, shippers receivers, and operations people. There jobs can be tough too.
3. Develop a strategy for backing, driving, interacting with people and paperwork.
4. Don’t be afraid to get out and look or ask for help.
5. Don’t let anyone (including yourself) force you to drive tired.
6. STAY OFF YOUR PHONE WHEN DRIVING.” –Dan A
“Don’t use cell phones when driving, one call could be your last call!!!” –Jerry R
“Stay focused. Turn off phone completely when you get into vehicle and are driving.” –Kim B
“Don’t block fuel islands. Don’t pass on hills. Get out and look before backing.” –Rory B
“You can use Google maps as long as you remember they aren’t a truck app. Always double check any route it gives you so you don’t end up stuck under an 11′ overpass or in a corn field.” –Teri S
“Never take nap in a driver’s seat you can get to use to it and your body starts to feel sleepy there all the I learned from old driver that was a good friend he caught me napping in the seat one night and yanked me out and threw me around then asked me how my wreck felt made sense.” –Francis S
“Use your signal when changing lanes! Don’t text and drive, have good situational awareness. Please turn your headlights on at dusk!!!! Don’t pass on the right.” –Ben G
“If you find a good company stick with it and don’t go running first time things don’t go exactly your way. This will happen everywhere! Also listen to those who have something to teach and mean well.” –D.R. T
Now that you know a little more about the wisdom of experienced truckers, are you feeling more confident in your skills as a new driver? Hopefully these tips have helped to give you a better understanding of what it takes to be a great trucker. Remember, always stay calm and focused while on the road, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. With time and experience, you’ll be an expert yourself in no time!
