dam them rookies!!

[oldslowchevy]

i would like to ask you all what peice of advice can you offer to not only me but all rookie drivers (truck drivers) what is (if you have the time) a few of the biggest mistakes us rookies do that drive you nuts and or leave us feeling like maybe we made a bad carrer choice. what should we do that no one tell us until it is to late. i hope i am making my self clear on what i mean by this. i look forward to your responses.

[SevenOfNine]

what is (if you have the time) a few of the biggest mistakes us rookies do that drive you nuts and or leave us feeling like maybe we made a bad carrer choice. what should we do that no one tell us until it is to late.

The thing is, all any one can do is tell any rookie is about their own experiences about trucking.

What might be a bad career choice for one guy,might be the cat's meow for another.

Doing the research,asking the questions and knowing what you want trucking to do for you is the best way.

Just go into trucking with your eyes open and not filled with "grand old tyme stories of the knights of the highway" and "seeing the country through the windshield" because trucking is a job,not a lifestyle.

In the end,you are the one that will have to make the best choice for you.

[BLEEDINGREEN]

well first good luck and drive safe.. I know everybody will say this but be careful. When backing in a place get out and look if your not sure, guys wont laugh at you for getting out and looking but if you back up and hit something there will be some chatter on the cb. JUST TAKE YOUR TIME... We were all there things will happen on the road that is not in your control. you just have to be ready for anything that crosses your path. Also dont expect this to be a 9-5 job..
road= 1-3 weeks on the road
regional= 1-2 weeks on the road
local= 10-14 hour days
GOOD LUCK DRIVE SAFE!!!!!!!

[TOP HAND]

oldslowchev, I think you have answered your own question. The best advice I can offer is to do what you have done right here, "ask for advice". I think too many times some rookie drivers forget they are just that, a rookie, and get a little cocky and screw up. And never be afraid to ask for help. 99% of the drivers out here will be glad to help a "humble" rookie who is willing to ask for help, the other 1% are just plain ol' A$$HOLES.

[heyns57]

Use sunblock 50 on your left arm!

[patrick]

Be curtious to your fellow drivers and pull up to the yellow line when your done fueling so the next guy can fuel. Even though some senior drivers dont. If your going to be longer than 10 or 15 minutes go park your rig. Man i cant stand that! I always get stuck behind the guy that is in there brushing his teeth and buying the store out.