Backing In The Yard - HUMBLE PIE

Much respect to all you drivers out there, mingling with other people in that massive piece of machinery, and squeezing it into tight spaces. Last night was my first time driving a tractor trailer, and I LOOKED like it was my first time!

Right before my time was up, I did manage to straighten it out and put it in the box, but it took all but 20 minutes! Even though I was remembering things like, 'steer in the opposite direction you intend the back of the trailer to go,' I was struggling. Don't get me wrong, I didn't expect to nail it, we were told to go ahead and get familiar with the truck - no expectations. All it did was let me know that it will take repetition, practice, and patience. Yes, I was humbled. But I am excited to get back in that rig!!! I love this!

Glad you're having fun. Make sure you ask questions. Don't be embarrassed or worried to say you need clarification.

I'm having fun, but then again, it was very intimidating. I think about moving around in that rig out with the other people and that is a very sobering thought brother!

And it should be! If you go into that truck thinking you know everything. . . That is a recipe for disaster. You'll improve every single day.

Bill, did you read my article The Backing Range At Trucking Driving School - Clown Soup For The Soul....you'll love it. It will give you an interesting perspective on those first few days trying to back a rig.

Yep, the problem with Ken (my student from TT) is that he was a bit overconfident in his abilities. Call me cruel, but this was my method I used:

I had to let backing frustrate him to death so he can get himself humbled and realize that his past experience with straight trucks won't help him in any way in trucking. When backing destroyed him and made him realize that he's a rookie needing help is when I stepped in.

That's how trucking works. You need to respect it before you can learn and never underestimate it, especially backing.

Yep, the problem with Ken (my student from TT) is that he was a bit overconfident in his abilities. Call me cruel, but this was my method I used:

I had to let backing frustrate him to death so he can get himself humbled and realize that his past experience with straight trucks won't help him in any way in trucking. When backing destroyed him and made him realize that he's a rookie needing help is when I stepped in.

That's how trucking works. You need to respect it before you can learn and never underestimate it, especially backing.

From my experience of just backing a utility trailer up with my pickup truck, being humble is easily attained. I have always respected the truckers who maneuver those rigs, whether forward or backwards, on the road or at the dock. I am anxious to learn the challenge.

Bill, did you read my article The Backing Range At Trucking Driving School - Clown Soup For The Soul....you'll love it. It will give you an interesting perspective on those first few days trying to back a rig.

I did read that a few months ago - I've pretty much to most spots on this website and read most blog entries. I'll reread it for encouragement. Always good to mingle with other dummies when you're feeling especially dumb!

When backing destroyed him and made him realize that he's a rookie needing help is when I stepped in.

WHAT? Ken overconfident?? No way . . . he's the most humble guy I ever met . . . just ask him! At least he's a lady killer, though . . . must be those "doe" eyes and that suave North Carolina accent (actually, a hybrid Texas/North Carolina accent)

Jopa

Bill, did you read my article The Backing Range At Trucking Driving School - Clown Soup For The Soul....you'll love it. It will give you an interesting perspective on those first few days trying to back a rig.

I did read that a few months ago - I've pretty much to most spots on this website and read most blog entries. I'll reread it for encouragement. Always good to mingle with other dummies when you're feeling especially dumb!

Had not read that article but it cracked me up coz am going through all that at the moment. Its hilarious. I may be a women but am far much better than most guys out there, seriously. My driving test is on the 28th. Will only have had 3 weeks of pre-trip, yard and road training. Hoping I can make it. Wish me luck...I need it.