Trucking Truth Blog: Articles Tagged 'Safe Driving Tips'

Items To Pack And Other Considerations For Husband And Wife Teams

by Becky Prestwich

Considering joining your husband in trucking? Learn what to pack, how to stay organized, and how to maintain hygiene in the sleeper berth of a semi. Eating out is costly, so eat in the truck as much as possible. Hygiene is important, so invest in hand sanitizer and moist wipes. Truck stops offer free showers with a fill up, and driver lounges with TVs and couches.

Getting Started - and Schooled

by Becky Prestwich

A wife of a truck driver shares her experience of learning the ins and outs of the trucking industry. She chronicles her trip to provide insight to others like her. She learns about the living conditions, the truck, and the truck stops. She also discovers the importance of truckers in the commerce industry.

The Big Decision

by Becky Prestwich

After twenty-six years of being apart, Dee and the author reconnected and decided to get married. They moved to Arkansas and Dee sought a local truck driving job. When a recruiter offered a regional job, Dee and the author decided to take the opportunity and go over-the-road for twelve weeks at a time. Read their story and learn how they made the transition.

The Backing Range At Trucking Driving School - It's Like Clown Soup For The Soul

by

It's your first day out on the backing range and you've never felt so clumsy and stupid in all your life. Learn the basics of driving a rig, from double clutching to backing up, with tips and advice from experienced drivers. Have fun, stay confident, and be prepared to embarrass yourself nearly to death about 10,000 times!

The Story Of Why So Many Rookie Drivers Fail And How To Avoid It

by

The trucking industry has a bad reputation, but it doesn't have to be that way. Learn the truth about the industry and how to avoid the pitfalls of bad information and bad attitudes. Get the facts and prepare for success!

The Biggest Mistake New Drivers Make When Speaking With Recruiters

by

Recruiters are salespeople and their job is to sell you on their school or company. Learn what recruiters can do for you, how to interpret conversations with recruiters, and what mistakes to avoid when making career decisions.

2 Mental Mistakes That Cost Drivers Their Sanity...And Maybe More

by

Truck driving is a tough job with endless mental challenges. Learn how to handle the mental challenges of truck driving by avoiding the 'negativity filter' and 'keeping score'. Find a trigger that helps you relax and stay positive to enjoy the job and stay safe.

A Look In The Mirror

by

This article discusses how truck drivers can restore the integrity of the American Trucker by being a true professional. It encourages truck drivers to dress well, work with pride, and talk kindly in order to gain respect from the public.

Solitude Becomes Every Truck Driver's Heaven Or Hell

by

Truck drivers face many challenges, including the loneliness of the road. Learn how to cope with the solitude of truck driving and keep your home life strong. Understand the implications of life on the road and the impact it can have on your family and friends. Explore options for home time and how to remain close with your loved ones.

Your Trainer Will Test You On Far More Than Just Your Driving Skills

by Old School

Truck driving school is only the beginning of your CDL training. Learn how to pay your dues as a rookie truck driver and how to handle a difficult trainer. Get tips on how to make it through your training period and be successful.

There's No Disguising A Rookie On The CB Radio

by BlueHillsTrucker

After nearly a year of piloting 70 feet of flatbed Kenworth around the country, The Blue Hills Trucker shares his tips on how to use the CB like a pro. Learn how to communicate with other drivers, use trucking lingo, and more!

How To Cut Through The Negativity And Choose The Right Trucking Company To Start Your Career

by

When researching trucking companies, it can be difficult to find helpful opinions. Learn how to differentiate between companies, find the best opportunity, and understand a company's strategy. Speak with current drivers, compare pay & benefits, and prove your worth to get the best miles.

Passing The CDL Road Test: What Are CDL Examiners Looking For?

by

Learn what the CDL Examiner is looking for on the road test and how to handle the pressure. Get tips on automatic failures and acceptable mistakes to help you pass the road test with flying colors.

Voyager Voyeur - A Glimpse At Life From High Above

by BlueHillsTrucker

Truck drivers share their experiences of what they see on the road. From people eating and drinking to the occasional naked woman, to the unexpected sights, this article provides an interesting look into the life of a trucker.

The Need For Communication

by Dave Ashelman

This article examines the effects of social isolation on communication in the trucking industry. It looks at how truckers often have communication problems due to their social isolation and how they can bridge the gap between themselves and the rest of the world. It also explores how language is cultural and how truckers can better communicate with dispatchers and other people in the industry.

Rites of Passage on the Highway

by Dave Ashelman

Rites of passage have been around since the tribal days of man's existence. In trucking, there are several rites of passage that must be earned. Learn about the importance of rites of passage in society and how to earn them in the trucking industry.

Look on the Blight Side

by BlueHillsTrucker

After a long drive, a truck driver stops at a seedy truck stop and discovers the hidden stories of the place. He explores the broken pavement, the stripped away mechanicals, and the discarded litter, and finds a strange fascination with the seedy side of society. He wonders about the past of the place and how it came to be.

A Family Emergency On The Road

by Rhonda

Being a truck driver is not easy, especially when a family emergency arises. This article tells the story of a truck driver who had to deal with a family emergency while on the road. Learn how his employer supported him during this difficult time.

Keeping The Family Close: Saying Sorry

by TruckersWife09

The power of sorry is an important tool in any relationship, but especially in the trucking industry. Understand the importance of action to make the word meaningful and how to use it to heal hurt and build relationships.

Important Truths for Rookie Drivers: Surviving Your First 6 Months

by lucky13

This article provides advice for new truck drivers on how to survive in the trucking industry. It covers topics such as how to stay safe, stay awake, and stay sane on the road. It also provides tips on how to stay organized, communicate with others, and treat yourself well.