Don't Drive Like A Trucking Rookie

Truck drivers deserve a lot of respect, but it’s not just because they carry keys to a big rig around. You quickly notice that the truckers who know what they’re doing have the most respect. It’s the super truckers with decades of driving experience under their belts.

Even guys who have been on the road for about three years can look like rookies to seasoned professionals. If you want the ultimate respect, then you have to earn it by gaining real experience and by not making rookie mistakes. Check out our tips on how to avoid looking like a trucking rookie.

Don't Drive Like A Trucking Rookie

Don’t Drive Distracted

One important thing to do is avoid driving distracted. Respectable drivers take safety for themselves and all other people on the road incredibly seriously. If you’re holding a phone, typing something in or your GPS, or reading a book, then your eyes aren’t on the road.

Type in your destination before you get rolling and use a Bluetooth device to make your phone hands free. If you can’t resist using your phone put it in your glove box while you drive or consider switching to a less time demanding profession.

Research Directions

These days rookies are using their iPhones to get directions, which can lead to problems because those routes aren’t specifically for trucks. They can lead drivers through crowded downtown areas and through rush hour traffic.

Use a GPS and a trucking software like ProMiles to plan your best route, then don’t follow it blindly. Use google maps to make sure it isn’t taking you through a crowded city. Plus, you can use the satellite images to look at the shipping facility to learn where to go and avoid circling it 5 to 6 times.

Take Responsibility

Guys who aren’t respected are the ones who blame everyone and everything else for their own actions. Know your own limits and don’t drive past them. If you’re tired that’s the equivalent to driving drunk. Never drive past your HOS and take brakes if you need to.

Also, represent yourself well. That means presenting yourself well by wearing jeans and a nicer shirt like a button-down or a polo. There’s no need to wear pajama pants and slides all the time.

Speak to other drivers and all members of the trucking industry with respect. Don’t curse and avoid speaking with profanity. Everything will come back on your record as you build your trucking reputation.

Think About Your Actions

You can't just drive a semi in autopilot mode. You have to be aware of your actions and surroundings at all times. If you make mistakes like failing to use your turn signal it could really end up costing you. Be sure to be conscious and courteous of traffic around you.

Also, go the speed limit. We understand that driving faster to get more miles can help your bottom line, but slowing down is more fuel-efficient. Plus, you don’t want to deal with a cop who pulls you for speeding.

Take your time while turning to make sure you have enough room to avoid hitting objects or other vehicles. Hitting or running over curbs can weaken your tires, making it easier for them to blow.

When it comes to backing up take your time. This can be tricky to master, but you’ll get more respect for taking your time than rushing and hitting something. When in doubt or if you cant see remember GOAT. Get Out And Look! Never nose in, it's a huge rookie mistake that makes it difficult to back out.

If you have rookie driving mistakes to avoid please add them to the comment section below and Visit TSNAmerica for more trucking blogs.