Time stamps below, but here’s a funny CB video th-cam.com/video/0rtU4neAgdQ/w-d-xo.html as well as a funny Swift Transportation song I wrote (no hard feelings 😂) th-cam.com/video/UwDrF03qmBE/w-d-xo.html Tip 1 0:36 Tip 2 01:43 Tip 3 03:06 Tip 4 04:28 Tip 5 07:18 Tip 6 09:19 Tip 7 10:52
As my CDL instructor David Holley Said, "we are the kings and queens of the right lane!" No need to be out there getting aggressive and agro for no reason.
On a 4 lane highway you should be in the 2 nd lane from the left, it’s called the smith system first devised by UPS for its semi drivers and it’s the path of least resistance, less drivers exiting and entering plus it gives you a outlet to choose from when the crap hits the fan
Here’s one I forget to do myself every so often. When shit starts to go wrong like running late for an appointment or when your in a hurry for any reason. Stop take a good deep breath calm down and restart whatever you’re doing. In my 18 years of CDL life I’ve always made mistakes when I’m rushing or in a hurry or pissed off for whatever reason. Just my little advice.
Concur concur ! After about 3rd year trucking (8 years deep) me figure this one out the rushing trying to take care of multiple things at the same time me forget to do something thank highway Jesus it hasn’t been anything critical yet Every new day should be every truckers 1st day behind the wheel
Don't let those damn dispatchers push you around either. If you have a bad dispatcher who is abusive, record their dumb-ass going off on the phone or in the office on your phone and just let the boss-man listen to it. If he won't handle it, find a new company. There are plenty out there. Remember, cooler heads always prevail....!
This kind of thing is getting out of hand. People wonder why no one let's you park anywhere anymore or why truck stops are charging for parking, because they spend all day cleaning up disgusting human waste and garbage. Saddest part is there is usually a big ass trash can right by the door on your way inside or by the fuel pump, or behind the trucks all around the perimeter of the truck stop.
Never depend on your truck GPS. Today, I got pulled over because I entered the “off truck route” because my Garmin GPS instructed me to get into that street. Thank God it's a citation and it doesn't count towards my license. So, pay attention closely to signs! Thank you for sharing this video with us. Very informative!
I've been driving for 27 years and the one thing I'm always reminding myself of....is..Stay humble! It's not a contest! Find a turning...backing etc..way of doing things that works for you and stick with it!
I ran at night whenever I could. Less traffic, fewer traffic jams, fewer low speed governed trucks clogging up the hammer lane, faster average cruise speeds, (my truck was governed at 83mph) I covered more miles, and there was no clamoring for parking, or waiting for showers at the truck stops. I didn't overheat when climbing mountains. The downside was that it seems like I was always tired.
Anyone who says GPS has never failed him/her has never been in a old city with small streets... I had it just few days ago directing me to a street with not enough clearance for trucks in St. Louis Missouri... if you have ever driven in a highway with a street right by it’s side it can get confused and tell you to get back in the highway while you are driving in the highway... anyone who trusts the GPS 100% at some point will end up in the wrong street or under a low clearance bridge... Every time I see someone driving 20 feet from the truck in front I literally slow down even if not in my line. Just saw a video of a accident involving about 5 trucks and 2 or 3 cars, just the aftermath. Pretty sure those trucks were driving too close to the vehicles in front, pretty sure several people dead, truck drivers and 4 wheel drivers... DO NOT TAILGATE... ANYTHING GOES WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE IN FRONT YOU WONT BE ABLE TO STOP.
@@thisismagacountry1318 No sir. I got both a Garmin Trucker GPS and a Rand McNally as well. I got both GPS devices on my truck at the same time because they sometimes send you thru places that are not for trucks so I just start following the other one. At the time it was sending me the wrong way in St Louis it was actually a Rand McNally. All GPS devices send you thru wrong places sometimes. Even company GPS devices do it.
On my first trip as a company driver the qualcomm tried taking me under a low clearance bridge. I stopped, never made the turn and kept going straight to get the hell out of there. Using common sense and being patient is a major key to success in professional driving imho. I know sometimes it’s hard to be when having a bad day but taking a breather and refocusing ourselves could very well save our lives and the lives of others.
I found myself in Elizabeth NJ following conflicting GPS instructions and looking at a 10'4" clearance bridge. Oops. I called the local PD and they not only helped me back out of the situation they escorted us to the Port. Since then I use my GPS as an advisory and this man has solid advice.
Getting cut off and tailgating is my biggest concern. I'm like. You're going to regret doing that one day. And what really burns me is they do it on down grades.
Even though I have never been a truck driver I have great respect for all of you who do drive a truck for a living. If it wasn't for the professional truck driver our country would have been totally destroyed by the recent government shutdown of our economy. Thank you very much for the job you do and stay as safe as you possibly can.
Yes, thank you. It’s nice to be appreciated. I am doing my very best and I think I can say that most of my fellow drivers out here are doing their best as well. We will all get through this. 👍
You really want to thank us? Give us at least 100 feet of following distance before changing lanes in front of us, and maintain your speed after you pass.
Good Video, Just want to add, Check your brakes. When you fire up the truck and have full air, push the pedal to the floor and hold for 3 seconds. That will reset your slack adjusters on your trailer. Can't tell you how many times I've seen a trailer on fire burning down to the frame cause their brakes were dragging on the drums. Keep the rubber side down guys, stay safe.
I drove all of Florida and had maps of every city with stops marked for easy identification ... the Blues Brothers had a harmonica handcuffed to Jake... I was just as paranoid about my briefcase full of maps... they were gold.
I’m currently going through my CDL training I’m 50 years old. I used to run Highline car dealerships as a general manager. I got tired of babysitting, ever since I was a toddler I only played with semi truck toys it’s some thing I always loved. I’ve been divorced for 20 years, I raised two children they’re both in their last half of college. Out of all the videos That I watch on TH-cam you my friend or a straight shooter and I appreciate your professionalism! Hopefully one day I will meet up with you and buy you a cuppa coffee.
I hear ya on all points that you brought up. I've been driving a big rig off and on since 98' and what really gets me is the lack of trucker etiquette. Like just the simple act of blinking your marker lights to thank someone for giving you the right of way or letting you over. That seems pretty much non existent. Tailgating is a big issue as well just as much as not having or using a radio. The radio is such a crucial tooljust as you said. But I'm just old school. I still walk around my truck every single time I get out and just before I get in. Keep on truckin man.
A lot of companies will not allow radios in their trucks. They say due to safety concerns. I personally believe it could make things safer used the proper way.
YES. And don't be that turd-bag that doesn't get over a lane to give space to someone on the shoulder/breakdown lane! That's someone's Mom, Dad, brother, sister, daughter, son, best friend... Give them room.
I was a fuel hauler in the army and when we ran convoys stateside we were taught that when civilian truckers move inside our convoy we flash them when they’re clear so they can see it’s safe to move over. I always appreciated that. We we’re governed in AM Generals and I know you truckers out there would hate these military convoys so thanks for being nice ladies and gentleman to us all. Truckers are good people.
A dirty rig is a magnet for the DOT. Given a choice DOT will pull in a dirty rig for an inspection before a clean one. Plus a clean machine is less likely to have breakdowns and problems. It’s easy to spend a few minutes while waiting to get loaded/unloaded to pick a spot to clean. Your truck will start looking better before you know it. Even though I have a company truck I treat it like it belongs to me. That way if / when I do get my own truck, I’ll be in the habit of keeping it clean. The icing on the cake is that I have gained a reputation with the other drivers and out of respect to me and the efforts I’ve put forth no one will use my truck. Keep up the good work and stay driven!
Get out and look? Absolutely!!! Especially at the kingpin jaws even after a tug test. (Double sure) If you're doing 2,000 miles, 2 minutes checking is nothing. Whatever you aren't sure about (traffic can wait) get out and look.
Dress like a professional, clean shirt, jeans or work pants, and work boots, especially in Flatbed. You are not at the beach, you are working and when you show up to job-sites looking like a bum, you make us all look bad. Related to this, clean yourself up and brush your teeth. There is no excuse not to shower, shave, trim the beard and BRUSH your teeth, again especially in Flatbed if you've been securing and tarping in the heat! Also dragon breath is never pleasant especially when everyone else can smell it from 10 feet away. Last gripe. If you need to call dispatch at the shipper or receiver, do that outside and get out of the way. First its hard for the rest of us to have a conversation with the person behind the desk while you're yelling on the blu-tooth, second it's just rude and none of us need to here your business. You may be alone in your truck but you're not alone in the world.
To touch on pre trips that can save you hours is to do your pre trips off duty and post trips on duty. DOT requires one or the other to be on duty, but not both. My reasoning is if you start your clock during your pre trip and find a problem that needs immediately attention you can't stop that 14 hour clock anymore. You can go over a few mins during post trip as long as your tires aren't moving and you're parked for the night. I hope this helps someone and it would be cool to hear you go over this again while giving me a shout out. Shaun Sopczak ( soap check).
Taking that one step further... Assuming you do a THOROUGH post trip; doing a simple walk around in the AM is still a smart and reasonable option. Someone could have broke a light or mirror out backing into you, someone could have pulled your 5th wheel as has already been noted. A leak may have developed overnight (especially if idling overnight). There is absolutely no good reason or excuse, other than just simply being lazy, to not do, at minimum, a cursory walk around in the AM prior to departing. Anything less and I ain't hearing you.
I so glad you put take pride in your ride. I am a company driver and I have my own clean up bag I take with me to all trucks I get assigned. I can’t tell you how many times I got in a truck and the glass was so dirty I couldn’t see the front of my hood. Flower seed shells, cans cigarette buds- you name it. I am glade the newer frightliners come with an air hose in the cab. Drivers if you share a ride with someone, take five minutes at the end of your shift and blow it out and clean it up. It will mean a lot to yourself and coworkers.
Most of these drivers today are in trucking for the wrong reasons, it's about getting a paycheck, they couldn't care less about being professional. Like you, we're into trucking because we like what we do, that is why we "take pride in our ride" and be professional
Very informative video I am starting my CDL school training in June and am doing as much research as I can so I can be as prepared as I can. It's definitely gonna be a learning process as the biggest vehicle I've driven to date is a 26 foot Uhaul. Trucking has been in my family for years however and I am looking forward to beginning this career!
My second solo load. I did a post trip. Everything looked good. Went into Loves came back and had a tire separated from the rim. Lucky for the truck stop had a repair shop. I don’t have a cb yet. Its on my list. For me it’s been a gradual build of equipment.
I started driving in 1988. I was with a trainer for 4 months . Why? I grew up around trucks. 1 do you have enough room? MR. William always told me to play WHAT IF? What if what you say?? 70 MPH and you blow a steer tire? What ya gonna do?? I was taught to shove the throttle to the floor, put on the 4 ways and HANG on and TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND relax.. Now throttle off and steer it to the shoulder. When you get stopped then you can relax all the way. When backing in... can you see it in your mind? Do you use the shadows to help you locate where everything is? just sayin!
Oh I can’t stress the P.T.I enough. Just last week had a company driver who was in a rush, so he pulled into the yard started his truck and left. No walk around or anything. 120 miles down the road, his front left steer had come off completely, wheel hub leak. Only reason the company knew he hadn’t done a pti was because of the yard cameras. Could have been completely avoided
I'm considering getting a CDL and being a driver, but my two biggest fears are driving one of those things through big city rush hour and tyrannical trucking companies that care more about the money than their truckers' safety. And what to do if some asshole decides to brake check you
I drove 16 years. Nearly every time a truck gets brake checked is because he wasn't being professional. Doing things like not moving over into the left lane that's clear when a 4wheeler is coming down a ramp or not letting one in when their lane ends. Don't be an ahole just because can. Be a professional.
Slow and. Steady. And focus. Any dispatcher. In a fast. Paced not worth. The gold you make. With good. Will treat you with. Respect. That God. The ones. I. Had in my. Time. Would gladly work. For them in. A. Heart. Beat
One thing you forgot to mention about doing PTI's everyday before setting out is check the temperature of your load make sure it is set where you left it (very handy when pulling reefer trailers), also lower your landing gear and do a tug test to make sure you are still connected to the trailer. Assclowns may have pulled the fifth wheel while you were asleep, or if you drive for certain companies (cough Swift) you might have been targeted just so you end up on Facebook for doing a "premature trailer drop" at the TA
I ALWAYS check the fifth wheel, and ALWAYS look at my trailer to make sure I’m pulling it and not dropping it behind me. Never seen it happen but have heard of people releasing the fifth wheel while the driver is sleeping.
@@randgrithr7387 No and No. Visually checking means literally crawling under the trailer and visually inspecting the locking jaw is around the pin and having no 'air' space between bottom of trailer and 5th wheel. Anything less than that is no guarantee. if some evil, nasty or vindictive person pulls your 5th wheel, simply putting the truck in reverse and forcing it backwards will not re-lock it. You have to drop the landing gear, pull forward a bit then back back into it. It take a specific amount of pressure to re-lock the jaws. If your already backed under it and had it locked, you cannot get enough pressure to re-lock by simply putting back pressure on the 5th wheel.
35 years ago when I started, none of the things you listed even needed to be said. It was a given. Slow down new people. You won't make any more money driving like a maniac. You'll just cost the truck owner more money in fuel, maintenance, tires and brakes.
Every vehicle that gets driven fast wears out fast, especially ones that aren't built for it. Someone else here said slow is smooth, smooth is fast, and it's more true in endurance racing and high mileage driving than anywhere else. Top speed does way less to boost your average speed than the downtime it costs due to extra fuel stops, tickets, accidents, and maintenance. 10 miles an hour over the limit is nothing compared to 65 miles an hour under it while stopped! Average speed is the most important factor next to total miles when it comes to our checks, and the only way to really improve that is to minimize your avoidable downtime. Relax, exercise, eat right, stay fresh, and drive smooth.
James Sullivan- I started driving in 1983, but got out in 2018 because the money & freedom was gone. I truly do not miss it! 3.7 million miles without ever having had a chargeable accident. I ran 62 mph, traffic & weather permitting. I also ran in the middle of the pack, & kept 4 wheelers away from me. Kudos to You Brother! I could not imagine what hassles exsist for the TRUE Professional today. Stay safe!
New driver here cb is required as cell service is spotty in places when trip planning check the GPS with an Atlas and the directions the company sent you always get out and look backing you never know what is behind you
good video been driving for 45 years seen a lot over the years at age 69 still driving otr tell the guys to not panic and look for outs such as turn arounds and do not go into dead ends
I went driving with my stepdad when I was a teen and he never baught a GPS...i had to give him directions based of atlas learned alot...never trust a GPS..truck stop pocket book a handy thing to have
Great advice. I'll admit, I removed my CB. I hate the things. Yes, there have been time I've regretted that decision. However, my cab and anxiety level have gone down since I removed it. It takes 2 minutes. Walk around the rig to make sure lights are working, tires look good, nothing leaking. That way it can be addressed while you are on your 10 hr break
@@mikeriordan3377 With everything that has happened to drivers the past few weeks, I decided it would be a good idea to install one. I bought a Cobra Classic with my Pilot points about 3 hours ago. lol. I still hate the damn things, though....
I Enjoy your video's! Been out 15yrs but one thing that drives me crazy is driver with brights or light on in dock..blinding you for backing in your dock. Dead giveaway its rookie.
Allow other truckers to pass safely! Don't pass another truck and get in front of them and slow them down! Don't drive slow enough to slow everyone else down and the speed up when someone attempts to pass you! That goes back to allowing others to pass! Anyway! Thanks for the videos brother!
One last thing (other than all the checks mentioned) check nobody has come over in your break and pulled the pin. Get under and check. You may have upset someone without knowing sometime.
Rookie drivers *points at self* NEVER pull forward into a parking space that you have to back out of. When you are leaving, you can't see to the sides around the other trucks, and people and vehicles WILL be moving across your backout path.
All boils down to being a professional. Any true professional cares about how they present themselves or their employer to the public through equipment appearance, their personal appearance, courtesy to each other and the public, and the performance of their duties to include driving and securement.
Best reply. On the gps. Buy a good one that has all the bells and whistles. And keep it updated. Money well spent. Before spending. On repairs. Saves. Hassle. Trust. Me
Glad to be back on the road, already been driving a month and getting back into the groove of things. Thanks for the reminders as I watched this video again. Always do a inspection at start and end of the day, it is worth it, found wiper fluid low, put in a bottle. Always keep spare wipers and fluids on the truck. I use all the room I have, most of the time you have to especially in road work zones. Getting better with backups but defiantly take practice which I do when I can. Luckily on a regional account so go to a lot of DC centers where I can practice. Stay safe out there in the road and look forward to your videos.
Driving and owning trucks for 10 plus years been towed twice and 2 road side mechanics maybe a couple tire blow outs all because of doing a pre trip paying attention to gauges and using my senes save my motor more then once great advice and especially on tail gating
Here's two tips I wish I would have known when I started is even if somebody is helping you back up make damn sure that you know what you're doing and you can see on your own don't rely on somebody else because if you hit something it's still going to be on you not your spotter. and number two is at the truck stop if you've been driving all day and you're tired and it's taking you longer to get into a spot don't let people rush you take your time make them wait it'll be okay it's better than rushing and hitting somebody.
Totally like your videos. I learned a lot from them. I did school bus driving for 15 years and I want to do Truck Driving now and all this make sense to me, I’m just a little nervous about over the road stuff and the trucks 🛻 breaking down
All good tips man. I'm sure more experienced drivers could writes a book on all the scary stuff new drivers do. I've got only 6 months experience and have made mistakes I'm not proud of but I've also seen a lot of unbelievable stuff that is beyond comprehension so I will add this advice for new drivers. Always remember that you are new and ignorant with no experience, which is the best teacher by the way, and to be successful you must take it upon yourself to learn the skills you need to be safe and efficient. Don't think that just because you were able to get through trucking school and pass a CDL test at the DMV by the seat of your pant or shear luck that you're a professional driver. I don't care how smart you think you are either because life is always gonna throw you curve balls, especially in trucking. Number one. You have to be safe out there and that's on you.
You're right about GPS, I'm just now getting started. Helping my son out so he can have a small hot shot job. And I follow the GPS, I wound up on a hairpin turn straining to get up a hill on construction on a cliff side. Old-fashioned-looking is the 100% way of finding out where and how to go
If you use a GPS use McNally one but always check your atlas and google map to see if the route on your gps match. Also have a backup route in case you have some closure on your primary one.
Good advice. First got my CDL in ‘87. Did it till 2000. Got out of it and raised my kids. Back at it now starting in 2020 and never gave up my CDL. Doing flatbed. Things have changed considerably. I see less skill now, less respect and idiots driving it like a car. Cut offs, tailgating, passing and taking a close exit thereby forcing the driver behind them to brake if they now can’t get over. Parking and eating at fuel islands. I could go on. The treat is seeing someone who was tailgating actually in an accident going through a big city in heavy traffic. Makes my day. I have been cut off and tailgated. If they do it long enough I either slow down more or get on the CB and give them a 10 second count down warning before applying the brakes.
Very good advice on backing and on the CB radio... however most people misunderstand the GPS and how it works... truckers need a programmable GPS for low overpasses and restricted roads... and how to preset it so your don't go Into The Boondocks! The GPS also needs updates... some people are just not very GPS savvy.... you should always practice with a GPS whether you need it or not!
Driving since 1993. Great advice you gave. I don't hesitate to call a customer if I'm not comfortable with the directions. Sure, sometimes it doesn't help, but often it does.
I am 62 years old making my career change all the things you said I agree 100% to me it's all common sense I tried to apply that in my life but for some people common sense is very uncommon great video
That’s why I use copilot lol it’s the best out there lol and with the cb you don’t just buy one and plug it up I recommend a Stryker and then get it tuned
You can use your GPS. Don't only rely on it though. I make 11+ local stops a day. I go everywhere you think a truck shouldn't be. You need to be a sign reader. You also need to know what your tractor is capable of. Not every truck can climb an 18% grade hill.
Holy Crap I'm one of the giveaway winners. That is too cool. Thanks for the good quality trucking videos. Been enjoying your channel now roughly 6 months. Keep up the good work.
Excellent points. Not talking about deep purples song "Knocking on your back door" but the cb lango. On the cb when you hear that term, the driver is asking you for help in passing you. So when they come around to pass, you will consider slowing down some. I know its frustrating when a driver is governed at 63 and your at 62 and someone wants to pass. However, regardless of the insanity slow down and help them come around to free up that lane. This will limit the 30 minutes it takes them to pass you Best thing to do is just to slow down and create space. Bite the bullet and go 62. Thats my advice and it will eliminate tailgating.
30 yrs cdl... 1 week otr... gps took me down a 2 lane road with curves and woods... nice ride until about 5 miles down there was weight limit of 8 tons... and a cop.... she pulled me over and I told her there was no weight restriction sign at the entrance to the road.. she gave me a warning... garmin needs a setting for trucks that advise about weight and height restrictions ahead..
I'm a newbie at truck driving and about to be released out there on my own next week. Just wanted to say Thank You for your great informative video's. I really appreciate it! 😊
One mistake almost every rookie i have encountered makes. Failure to pack food . If you have driven a truck for longer than a year, you know by then that it's possible to drive all hours of the night as well as day. Don't be the angry customer in pilot at 2 am because they are out of food. Also don't be the guy last month ( that i had to give food to) because of being stuck on the side of the road for 2 days in an ice storm in Mississippi.
I start driving in NYC 1999 I have long time behind the wheel to all rockies this gentleman give you advantage to be good driver. Rockies learn about the 5 step of Smith System that go to give you perfect idea and remember you have family waiting for you at home 🏠 10/4
Use what you have. If youre able to turn wide do it. With the GPS. Get the right one. They made ones for big rigs dont rely on it but also use it for safety and traffic updates.
Lol so the first thing is turn off CB backing up (wrong) next get a cb and turn it on? Get a GPS that's made for trucks. Google Earth very helpful. Agree totally with the last one, too many four wheelers behind the wheel of a big truck.
Driven Trucking imagine it's 2200 hours and someone is tired and backing into a spot. While you are sleeping you here a loud air horn blowing waking you up. They can be an adult and ignore stupid people barking on the radio. I'd rather be able to a good night sleep.
I work at a big warehouse shipping dept, and we get drivers that come in Al the time in sweat pants and wrinkled shirts and just look pathetic. Everyone makes fun of them and calls them nasty and then you have the guys that actually come in with blue jeans on and work boots on and they are always the ones with clean rides and take pride in their work unlike the people who just do it for money and look like bums coming into the warehouse.
When backing the road trainer told me to use all available real-estate. The CB actually helped me back into a spot as the one truck that was sticking out a bit giving me reduced space the guy sitting in it was basically spotting that spot for me as he don't want his big nice Kenworth to get hit and since he stuck out 3 to 5 feet more then everyone else it was a good thing. I do however have a cheap ass Midland right now. I already have my line ready for if someone gives me crap about taking so long to put it in. "The rookie backed it in without hitting anything" I am on reginal to my area and that helps me not rely on the GPS for the most part as I know most the roads.
Keep your dash/ windshield clean and clear. Nothing unnecessary. You can see better, you have good airflow on the windshield and it looks much better to DOT.
Just stumbled across your channel, it popped up in my feed. Decided to check it out and I like what you had to say so I subscribed. Many years ago I always wanted to be a truck driver. In fact it goes as far back into my grade school days when they asked kids "What do you want to be when you grow up?" I always said a truck driver... but.. life got in the way and time passed me by. I'm in my 40's now so it's a bit late for me. However, that never changed the fact that to this day I'm still fascinated by semi trucks. Anyway, I found your channel to be informative so I'll be sticking around to watch your videos from here on out. Cheers!
Overall very good video your comments at the end about cutting off trucks I wholly agree with. One of the things I hate to see truck drivers do it is also push traffic down the road
![[#2024MAMA] ROSÉ (로제), Bruno Mars - APT. | Mnet 241122 방송](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/dgGqD28J6aQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Time stamps below, but here’s a funny CB video th-cam.com/video/0rtU4neAgdQ/w-d-xo.html as well as a funny Swift Transportation song I wrote (no hard feelings 😂) th-cam.com/video/UwDrF03qmBE/w-d-xo.html
Tip 1 0:36
Tip 2 01:43
Tip 3 03:06
Tip 4 04:28
Tip 5 07:18
Tip 6 09:19
Tip 7 10:52
I am addicted to your channel..Thumbs up ...
Is there a particular cb radio that’s best, or are they generally all the same?
As my CDL instructor David Holley Said, "we are the kings and queens of the right lane!" No need to be out there getting aggressive and agro for no reason.
On a 4 lane highway you should be in the 2 nd lane from the left, it’s called the smith system first devised by UPS for its semi drivers and it’s the path of least resistance, less drivers exiting and entering plus it gives you a outlet to choose from when the crap hits the fan
Here’s one I forget to do myself every so often. When shit starts to go wrong like running late for an appointment or when your in a hurry for any reason. Stop take a good deep breath calm down and restart whatever you’re doing. In my 18 years of CDL life I’ve always made mistakes when I’m rushing or in a hurry or pissed off for whatever reason. Just my little advice.
Add to what you said, being dog ass tired. That's when mistakes get made.
Excellent advice.
Concur concur ! After about 3rd year trucking (8 years deep) me figure this one out the rushing trying to take care of multiple things at the same time me forget to do something thank highway Jesus it hasn’t been anything critical yet
Every new day should be every truckers 1st day behind the wheel
Slow and steady wins the race.
Don't let those damn dispatchers push you around either. If you have a bad dispatcher who is abusive, record their dumb-ass going off on the phone or in the office on your phone and just let the boss-man listen to it. If he won't handle it, find a new company. There are plenty out there. Remember, cooler heads always prevail....!
Trash thrown out of trucks at truck stops at least put it in a trash can... especially piss bottles.
And stop pouring it out at the fuel island
This kind of thing is getting out of hand. People wonder why no one let's you park anywhere anymore or why truck stops are charging for parking, because they spend all day cleaning up disgusting human waste and garbage. Saddest part is there is usually a big ass trash can right by the door on your way inside or by the fuel pump, or behind the trucks all around the perimeter of the truck stop.
Yeah it’s pretty sad. It seems to be getting worse to
I always emptied mine out into the toilet at rest areas before I threw the bottles away.
damn yall are nasty
Never depend on your truck GPS. Today, I got pulled over because I entered the “off truck route” because my Garmin GPS instructed me to get into that street. Thank God it's a citation and it doesn't count towards my license. So, pay attention closely to signs! Thank you for sharing this video with us. Very informative!
How u plan ur routes?
I've been driving for 27 years and the one thing I'm always reminding myself of....is..Stay humble! It's not a contest! Find a turning...backing etc..way of doing things that works for you and stick with it!
I ran at night whenever I could. Less traffic, fewer traffic jams, fewer low speed governed trucks clogging up the hammer lane, faster average cruise speeds, (my truck was governed at 83mph) I covered more miles, and there was no clamoring for parking, or waiting for showers at the truck stops. I didn't overheat when climbing mountains. The downside was that it seems like I was always tired.
Anyone who says GPS has never failed him/her has never been in a old city with small streets... I had it just few days ago directing me to a street with not enough clearance for trucks in St. Louis Missouri... if you have ever driven in a highway with a street right by it’s side it can get confused and tell you to get back in the highway while you are driving in the highway... anyone who trusts the GPS 100% at some point will end up in the wrong street or under a low clearance bridge...
Every time I see someone driving 20 feet from the truck in front I literally slow down even if not in my line. Just saw a video of a accident involving about 5 trucks and 2 or 3 cars, just the aftermath. Pretty sure those trucks were driving too close to the vehicles in front, pretty sure several people dead, truck drivers and 4 wheel drivers...
DO NOT TAILGATE... ANYTHING GOES WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE IN FRONT YOU WONT BE ABLE TO STOP.
Garmin makes trucker's GPS.
Sounds like you were using a regular GPS.
@@thisismagacountry1318 No sir. I got both a Garmin Trucker GPS and a Rand McNally as well. I got both GPS devices on my truck at the same time because they sometimes send you thru places that are not for trucks so I just start following the other one. At the time it was sending me the wrong way in St Louis it was actually a Rand McNally. All GPS devices send you thru wrong places sometimes. Even company GPS devices do it.
@@hbvtux Good to know.
You should let it send you the wrong way, documented on dashcam and sue the maker.
On my first trip as a company driver the qualcomm tried taking me under a low clearance bridge. I stopped, never made the turn and kept going straight to get the hell out of there. Using common sense and being patient is a major key to success in professional driving imho. I know sometimes it’s hard to be when having a bad day but taking a breather and refocusing ourselves could very well save our lives and the lives of others.
I found myself in Elizabeth NJ following conflicting GPS instructions and looking at a 10'4" clearance bridge. Oops. I called the local PD and they not only helped me back out of the situation they escorted us to the Port. Since then I use my GPS as an advisory and this man has solid advice.
@@randallraszick6001 Garmin makes Trucker's GPS.
Don't use a regular GPS.
Getting cut off and tailgating is my biggest concern. I'm like. You're going to regret doing that one day. And what really burns me is they do it on down grades.
I love it when climbing an incline, they cut in front of you. You have to hit the breaks and lose your momentum. Idiots!
Even though I have never been a truck driver I have great respect for all of you who do drive a truck for a living. If it wasn't for the professional truck driver our country would have been totally destroyed by the recent government shutdown of our economy. Thank you very much for the job you do and stay as safe as you possibly can.
And we thank you for noticing what we do and how important what we do is. So thank you!
Yes, thank you. It’s nice to be appreciated. I am doing my very best and I think I can say that most of my fellow drivers out here are doing their best as well. We will all get through this. 👍
You really want to thank us? Give us at least 100 feet of following distance before changing lanes in front of us, and maintain your speed after you pass.
perdition79 now there’s a pet peeve of mine! People who pass me and then slow down to become a nuisance! God I hate that!
Do you forex trade? Forex trade is another profit making platform that keeps credit Paramount try now and don't wait
Good Video, Just want to add, Check your brakes. When you fire up the truck and have full air, push the pedal to the floor and hold for 3 seconds. That will reset your slack adjusters on your trailer. Can't tell you how many times I've seen a trailer on fire burning down to the frame cause their brakes were dragging on the drums. Keep the rubber side down guys, stay safe.
Yeah my instructor told us to press it 3 times, I’ve never known much about cars so I had no idea to do that
I've been driving since the early 90's... Old school maps and a CB both have saved my ass SO many times I stopped counting a long time ago.
Late 90s for me... well, I know you miss the good ole days like me!!! Strange breed out there these days!
I drove all of Florida and had maps of every city with stops marked for easy identification ... the Blues Brothers had a harmonica handcuffed to Jake... I was just as paranoid about my briefcase full of maps... they were gold.
@@mattmatt2096 ...That's right.
Pre trip inspection is the first RULE in Trucking SAFETY FIRST
I’m currently going through my CDL training I’m 50 years old. I used to run Highline car dealerships as a general manager. I got tired of babysitting, ever since I was a toddler I only played with semi truck toys it’s some thing I always loved. I’ve been divorced for 20 years, I raised two children they’re both in their last half of college. Out of all the videos That I watch on TH-cam you my friend or a straight shooter and I appreciate your professionalism! Hopefully one day I will meet up with you and buy you a cuppa coffee.
Missed a few.. 100mph in the truck stops before you kill someone flying thru the fuel pumps.
I hear ya on all points that you brought up. I've been driving a big rig off and on since 98' and what really gets me is the lack of trucker etiquette. Like just the simple act of blinking your marker lights to thank someone for giving you the right of way or letting you over. That seems pretty much non existent. Tailgating is a big issue as well just as much as not having or using a radio. The radio is such a crucial tooljust as you said. But I'm just old school. I still walk around my truck every single time I get out and just before I get in. Keep on truckin man.
A lot of companies will not allow radios in their trucks. They say due to safety concerns. I personally believe it could make things safer used the proper way.
YES. And don't be that turd-bag that doesn't get over a lane to give space to someone on the shoulder/breakdown lane! That's someone's Mom, Dad, brother, sister, daughter, son, best friend... Give them room.
I was a fuel hauler in the army and when we ran convoys stateside we were taught that when civilian truckers move inside our convoy we flash them when they’re clear so they can see it’s safe to move over. I always appreciated that. We we’re governed in AM Generals and I know you truckers out there would hate these military convoys so thanks for being nice ladies and gentleman to us all. Truckers are good people.
Too many foreigners don't know the customs.
Don’t get me started on the tailgating…
CB needs a revive
A dirty rig is a magnet for the DOT. Given a choice DOT will pull in a dirty rig for an inspection before a clean one. Plus a clean machine is less likely to have breakdowns and problems. It’s easy to spend a few minutes while waiting to get loaded/unloaded to pick a spot to clean. Your truck will start looking better before you know it. Even though I have a company truck I treat it like it belongs to me. That way if / when I do get my own truck, I’ll be in the habit of keeping it clean. The icing on the cake is that I have gained a reputation with the other drivers and out of respect to me and the efforts I’ve put forth no one will use my truck. Keep up the good work and stay driven!
Get out and look? Absolutely!!! Especially at the kingpin jaws even after a tug test. (Double sure) If you're doing 2,000 miles, 2 minutes checking is nothing. Whatever you aren't sure about (traffic can wait) get out and look.
Tailgating is the number one screw up for drivers! Common sense..use it!
Training with Werner back in 99 my trainer said use ALL the real estate that’s available!! So true and I use it everyday
Great info it’s crazy the mistakes being made from “lookin cool” and laziness. The simplest 3-5 minute walk around can save you so much time later
Dress like a professional, clean shirt, jeans or work pants, and work boots, especially in Flatbed. You are not at the beach, you are working and when you show up to job-sites looking like a bum, you make us all look bad. Related to this, clean yourself up and brush your teeth. There is no excuse not to shower, shave, trim the beard and BRUSH your teeth, again especially in Flatbed if you've been securing and tarping in the heat! Also dragon breath is never pleasant especially when everyone else can smell it from 10 feet away. Last gripe. If you need to call dispatch at the shipper or receiver, do that outside and get out of the way. First its hard for the rest of us to have a conversation with the person behind the desk while you're yelling on the blu-tooth, second it's just rude and none of us need to here your business. You may be alone in your truck but you're not alone in the world.
Amen. Flatbedders n sandles don't mix
That's right some of those truckers look like crap!!!
AMEN to that
And please take a shower men 🤣🤣🤣
I don’t go anywhere without my Ariats and wrangler jeans.
To touch on pre trips that can save you hours is to do your pre trips off duty and post trips on duty. DOT requires one or the other to be on duty, but not both.
My reasoning is if you start your clock during your pre trip and find a problem that needs immediately attention you can't stop that 14 hour clock anymore.
You can go over a few mins during post trip as long as your tires aren't moving and you're parked for the night.
I hope this helps someone and it would be cool to hear you go over this again while giving me a shout out.
Shaun Sopczak ( soap check).
Taking that one step further... Assuming you do a THOROUGH post trip; doing a simple walk around in the AM is still a smart and reasonable option. Someone could have broke a light or mirror out backing into you, someone could have pulled your 5th wheel as has already been noted. A leak may have developed overnight (especially if idling overnight). There is absolutely no good reason or excuse, other than just simply being lazy, to not do, at minimum, a cursory walk around in the AM prior to departing. Anything less and I ain't hearing you.
Big facts my brother. A lot of new driver's don't utilize the space they have available as well as getting out and looking when they are backing
I so glad you put take pride in your ride.
I am a company driver and I have my own clean up bag I take with me to all trucks I get assigned. I can’t tell you how many times I got in a truck and the glass was so dirty I couldn’t see the front of my hood. Flower seed shells, cans cigarette buds- you name it. I am glade the newer frightliners come with an air hose in the cab. Drivers if you share a ride with someone, take five minutes at the end of your shift and blow it out and clean it up. It will mean a lot to yourself and coworkers.
Most of these drivers today are in trucking for the wrong reasons, it's about getting a paycheck, they couldn't care less about being professional.
Like you, we're into trucking because we like what we do, that is why we "take pride in our ride" and be professional
So true not many true truck drivers anymore, with the old school respect
Trust me, in the Rocky Mountain region the CB is an amazing tool.
the what?
Very informative video I am starting my CDL school training in June and am doing as much research as I can so I can be as prepared as I can. It's definitely gonna be a learning process as the biggest vehicle I've driven to date is a 26 foot Uhaul. Trucking has been in my family for years however and I am looking forward to beginning this career!
I graduate in a couple weeks it’s not too hard. Just take your time and pay attention
My second solo load. I did a post trip. Everything looked good. Went into Loves came back and had a tire separated from the rim. Lucky for the truck stop had a repair shop. I don’t have a cb yet. Its on my list. For me it’s been a gradual build of equipment.
Currently training for my CDL now. Your videos are really interesting and helpful. Keep it up dude 👍🏽
Right on, thanks
@@DrivenTrucking how can sam one get a job in your country
I started driving in 1988. I was with a trainer for 4 months . Why? I grew up around trucks. 1 do you have enough room? MR. William always told me to play WHAT IF? What if what you say?? 70 MPH and you blow a steer tire? What ya gonna do?? I was taught to shove the throttle to the floor, put on the 4 ways and HANG on and TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND relax.. Now throttle off and steer it to the shoulder. When you get stopped then you can relax all the way. When backing in... can you see it in your mind? Do you use the shadows to help you locate where everything is? just sayin!
Oh I can’t stress the P.T.I enough. Just last week had a company driver who was in a rush, so he pulled into the yard started his truck and left. No walk around or anything. 120 miles down the road, his front left steer had come off completely, wheel hub leak. Only reason the company knew he hadn’t done a pti was because of the yard cameras. Could have been completely avoided
I'm considering getting a CDL and being a driver, but my two biggest fears are driving one of those things through big city rush hour and tyrannical trucking companies that care more about the money than their truckers' safety. And what to do if some asshole decides to brake check you
I’m in the same boat. Still in the planning phase. One thing I decided im going to be doing is getting a dash cam.
I drove 16 years. Nearly every time a truck gets brake checked is because he wasn't being professional. Doing things like not moving over into the left lane that's clear when a 4wheeler is coming down a ramp or not letting one in when their lane ends. Don't be an ahole just because can. Be a professional.
Slow and. Steady. And focus. Any dispatcher. In a fast. Paced not worth. The gold you make. With good. Will treat you with. Respect. That God. The ones. I. Had in my. Time. Would gladly work. For them in. A. Heart. Beat
One thing you forgot to mention about doing PTI's everyday before setting out is check the temperature of your load make sure it is set where you left it (very handy when pulling reefer trailers), also lower your landing gear and do a tug test to make sure you are still connected to the trailer. Assclowns may have pulled the fifth wheel while you were asleep, or if you drive for certain companies (cough Swift) you might have been targeted just so you end up on Facebook for doing a "premature trailer drop" at the TA
I ALWAYS check the fifth wheel, and ALWAYS look at my trailer to make sure I’m pulling it and not dropping it behind me. Never seen it happen but have heard of people releasing the fifth wheel while the driver is sleeping.
Can't you just visually inspect?
If not, can't you just back up to ensure the jaws are locked?
@@randgrithr7387 No and No. Visually checking means literally crawling under the trailer and visually inspecting the locking jaw is around the pin and having no 'air' space between bottom of trailer and 5th wheel. Anything less than that is no guarantee. if some evil, nasty or vindictive person pulls your 5th wheel, simply putting the truck in reverse and forcing it backwards will not re-lock it. You have to drop the landing gear, pull forward a bit then back back into it. It take a specific amount of pressure to re-lock the jaws. If your already backed under it and had it locked, you cannot get enough pressure to re-lock by simply putting back pressure on the 5th wheel.
@@hbvtuxI’ve seen more of the fifth wheel pulling done to drivers taking their 30 in the fuel island. They deserve it tbh.
35 years ago when I started, none of the things you listed even needed to be said. It was a given. Slow down new people. You won't make any more money driving like a maniac. You'll just cost the truck owner more money in fuel, maintenance, tires and brakes.
Not to mention taking time away to drive because your stuck on the side of the road wait for the tow truck or roadside help
Every vehicle that gets driven fast wears out fast, especially ones that aren't built for it. Someone else here said slow is smooth, smooth is fast, and it's more true in endurance racing and high mileage driving than anywhere else.
Top speed does way less to boost your average speed than the downtime it costs due to extra fuel stops, tickets, accidents, and maintenance. 10 miles an hour over the limit is nothing compared to 65 miles an hour under it while stopped!
Average speed is the most important factor next to total miles when it comes to our checks, and the only way to really improve that is to minimize your avoidable downtime. Relax, exercise, eat right, stay fresh, and drive smooth.
James Sullivan- I started driving in 1983, but got out in 2018 because the money & freedom was gone. I truly do not miss it! 3.7 million miles without ever having had a chargeable accident. I ran 62 mph, traffic & weather permitting. I also ran in the middle of the pack, & kept 4 wheelers away from me. Kudos to You Brother! I could not imagine what hassles exsist for the TRUE Professional today. Stay safe!
Let’s get the CB radio back to life 👍🚛
Never turned a wheel without one in 42 years and counting. Saved a lot of time and my life once. Always on in my truck.
What is a CB?
Two many drivers that are not truck drivers.they do it for the money only.thats a bad thing.enjoyment is the longevity of a career.
I love fuking around on it
What CB channel are truckers using usually pls ??
New driver here cb is required as cell service is spotty in places when trip planning check the GPS with an Atlas and the directions the company sent you always get out and look backing you never know what is behind you
Great advice! Love the saying "Take pride in your ride, and yourself".
good video been driving for 45 years seen a lot over the years at age 69 still driving otr tell the guys to not panic and look for outs such as turn arounds and do not go into dead ends
I went driving with my stepdad when I was a teen and he never baught a GPS...i had to give him directions based of atlas learned alot...never trust a GPS..truck stop pocket book a handy thing to have
Love seeing your rookie driving tips. I’m a rookie and love learning. Keep them coming....
I got stuck in a 26-foot box truck on a one lane dirt road in Marble, Colorado because of GPS.
Great advice. I'll admit, I removed my CB. I hate the things. Yes, there have been time I've regretted that decision. However, my cab and anxiety level have gone down since I removed it.
It takes 2 minutes. Walk around the rig to make sure lights are working, tires look good, nothing leaking. That way it can be addressed while you are on your 10 hr break
I respectfully suggest having a CB; thank god for the off switch
@@mikeriordan3377 With everything that has happened to drivers the past few weeks, I decided it would be a good idea to install one. I bought a Cobra Classic with my Pilot points about 3 hours ago. lol. I still hate the damn things, though....
I Enjoy your video's! Been out 15yrs but one thing that drives me crazy is driver with brights or light on in dock..blinding you for backing in your dock. Dead giveaway its rookie.
Thanks, I'll remember that when I get in the seat.
Don’t sleep on the shoulder of Hwy. Get off the highway and find a safe well lighted area if possible.
There's nowhere for triples to park.
Allow other truckers to pass safely!
Don't pass another truck and get in front of them and slow them down!
Don't drive slow enough to slow everyone else down and the speed up when someone attempts to pass you! That goes back to allowing others to pass! Anyway! Thanks for the videos brother!
I've always admired how these guys can manuver these monster trucks! Especially in places like NYC!🥴
One last thing (other than all the checks mentioned) check nobody has come over in your break and pulled the pin. Get under and check. You may have upset someone without knowing sometime.
Rookie drivers *points at self* NEVER pull forward into a parking space that you have to back out of. When you are leaving, you can't see to the sides around the other trucks, and people and vehicles WILL be moving across your backout path.
Good advice on. Pull thru. Saves time. And. Money. And safe😂
I am a newbie and everything u said is truth. collecting loves points for a good cb.
At 56 I'm looking forward to a new career in trucking. Your videos are just as informative as the comment section. I subscribed.
All boils down to being a professional. Any true professional cares about how they present themselves or their employer to the public through equipment appearance, their personal appearance, courtesy to each other and the public, and the performance of their duties to include driving and securement.
One thing I would change when you talk about the GPS is that the Atlas needs to be a CURRENT TRUCK ATLAS and not a random atlas from wherever.
Best reply. On the gps. Buy a good one that has all the bells and whistles. And keep it updated. Money well spent. Before spending. On repairs. Saves. Hassle. Trust. Me
Glad to be back on the road, already been driving a month and getting back into the groove of things. Thanks for the reminders as I watched this video again. Always do a inspection at start and end of the day, it is worth it, found wiper fluid low, put in a bottle. Always keep spare wipers and fluids on the truck. I use all the room I have, most of the time you have to especially in road work zones. Getting better with backups but defiantly take practice which I do when I can. Luckily on a regional account so go to a lot of DC centers where I can practice. Stay safe out there in the road and look forward to your videos.
I've been driving 4yrs now....I'm two vidz in and love this channel already 🤷🏾♂️😁
I’ve had my copilot system fail me so many times. Since day one I’ve written my routing on a notebook for quick look at where my turns and when.
Driving and owning trucks for 10 plus years been towed twice and 2 road side mechanics maybe a couple tire blow outs all because of doing a pre trip paying attention to gauges and using my senes save my motor more then once great advice and especially on tail gating
Here's two tips I wish I would have known when I started is even if somebody is helping you back up make damn sure that you know what you're doing and you can see on your own don't rely on somebody else because if you hit something it's still going to be on you not your spotter.
and number two is at the truck stop if you've been driving all day and you're tired and it's taking you longer to get into a spot don't let people rush you take your time make them wait it'll be okay it's better than rushing and hitting somebody.
Totally like your videos. I learned a lot from them. I did school bus driving for 15 years and I want to do Truck Driving now and all this make sense to me, I’m just a little nervous about over the road stuff and the trucks 🛻 breaking down
All good tips man. I'm sure more experienced drivers could writes a book on all the scary stuff new drivers do. I've got only 6 months experience and have made mistakes I'm not proud of but I've also seen a lot of unbelievable stuff that is beyond comprehension so I will add this advice for new drivers. Always remember that you are new and ignorant with no experience, which is the best teacher by the way, and to be successful you must take it upon yourself to learn the skills you need to be safe and efficient. Don't think that just because you were able to get through trucking school and pass a CDL test at the DMV by the seat of your pant or shear luck that you're a professional driver. I don't care how smart you think you are either because life is always gonna throw you curve balls, especially in trucking. Number one. You have to be safe out there and that's on you.
Thanks again for your help and support for trucking purposes , repair and safety first. Driver help and safety.
You're right about GPS, I'm just now getting started. Helping my son out so he can have a small hot shot job. And I follow the GPS, I wound up on a hairpin turn straining to get up a hill on construction on a cliff side. Old-fashioned-looking is the 100% way of finding out where and how to go
If you use a GPS use McNally one but always check your atlas and google map to see if the route on your gps match. Also have a backup route in case you have some closure on your primary one.
I wish everyone would hear your message. You provide a lot of wisdom. Thank you.
I absolutely agree 100%... Especially with tailgating...
I’m in cdl school right now can’t wait to become a road warrior i watch these videos all day everyday
Good advice. First got my CDL in ‘87. Did it till 2000. Got out of it and raised my kids. Back at it now starting in 2020 and never gave up my CDL. Doing flatbed. Things have changed considerably. I see less skill now, less respect and idiots driving it like a car. Cut offs, tailgating, passing and taking a close exit thereby forcing the driver behind them to brake if they now can’t get over. Parking and eating at fuel islands. I could go on. The treat is seeing someone who was tailgating actually in an accident going through a big city in heavy traffic. Makes my day. I have been cut off and tailgated. If they do it long enough I either slow down more or get on the CB and give them a 10 second count down warning before applying the brakes.
Very good advice on backing and on the CB radio... however most people misunderstand the GPS and how it works... truckers need a programmable GPS for low overpasses and restricted roads... and how to preset it so your don't go Into The Boondocks! The GPS also needs updates... some people are just not very GPS savvy.... you should always practice with a GPS whether you need it or not!
Driving since 1993. Great advice you gave. I don't hesitate to call a customer if I'm not comfortable with the directions. Sure, sometimes it doesn't help, but often it does.
I am 62 years old making my career change all the things you said I agree 100% to me it's all common sense I tried to apply that in my life but for some people common sense is very uncommon great video
Hey boss! I’m new to trucking and I’m in love! I want the best electronics. Can you do a video on your cb, gps and cameras your running?
That’s why I use copilot lol it’s the best out there lol and with the cb you don’t just buy one and plug it up I recommend a Stryker and then get it tuned
You can use your GPS. Don't only rely on it though. I make 11+ local stops a day. I go everywhere you think a truck shouldn't be. You need to be a sign reader. You also need to know what your tractor is capable of. Not every truck can climb an 18% grade hill.
Holy Crap I'm one of the giveaway winners. That is too cool. Thanks for the good quality trucking videos. Been enjoying your channel now roughly 6 months. Keep up the good work.
Congratulations!
Excellent points. Not talking about deep purples song "Knocking on your back door" but the cb lango. On the cb when you hear that term, the driver is asking you for help in passing you. So when they come around to pass, you will consider slowing down some. I know its frustrating when a driver is governed at 63 and your at 62 and someone wants to pass. However, regardless of the insanity slow down and help them come around to free up that lane. This will limit the 30 minutes it takes them to pass you Best thing to do is just to slow down and create space. Bite the bullet and go 62. Thats my advice and it will eliminate tailgating.
You probably forgot to talk about Trip Planning, when i know how my day is going to be, like weather conditions, my stops, fuel level, etc.. it helps
30 yrs cdl... 1 week otr... gps took me down a 2 lane road with curves and woods... nice ride until about 5 miles down there was weight limit of 8 tons... and a cop.... she pulled me over and I told her there was no weight restriction sign at the entrance to the road.. she gave me a warning... garmin needs a setting for trucks that advise about weight and height restrictions ahead..
I did oil field work for awhile and every operator I saw were too lazy to pre trip. Laziness is no excuse!!!
Tailgating gets me too, esp. seeing a trucker doing it to a 4 wheeler!!!!
I'm a newbie at truck driving and about to be released out there on my own next week. Just wanted to say Thank You for your great informative video's. I really appreciate it! 😊
One mistake almost every rookie i have encountered makes. Failure to pack food . If you have driven a truck for longer than a year, you know by then that it's possible to drive all hours of the night as well as day. Don't be the angry customer in pilot at 2 am because they are out of food. Also don't be the guy last month ( that i had to give food to) because of being stuck on the side of the road for 2 days in an ice storm in Mississippi.
I start driving in NYC 1999 I have long time behind the wheel to all rockies this gentleman give you advantage to be good driver. Rockies learn about the 5 step of Smith System that go to give you perfect idea and remember you have family waiting for you at home 🏠 10/4
Great tips, just got my class A here in Canada and can't wait to get started.
I didn’t know many places we have to blindside and it was not taught in school. I had to goal 15 times ones
Use what you have. If youre able to turn wide do it.
With the GPS. Get the right one. They made ones for big rigs dont rely on it but also use it for safety and traffic updates.
I done a lot of driving in the bay area. I know where im going i use it for traffic updates.
Lol so the first thing is turn off CB backing up (wrong) next get a cb and turn it on? Get a GPS that's made for trucks. Google Earth very helpful. Agree totally with the last one, too many four wheelers behind the wheel of a big truck.
I’ve heard way more hurt than help on the cb while guys are having difficulty parking, that’s why I said that.
Driven Trucking imagine it's 2200 hours and someone is tired and backing into a spot. While you are sleeping you here a loud air horn blowing waking you up. They can be an adult and ignore stupid people barking on the radio. I'd rather be able to a good night sleep.
Scott Churchill I 💯 percent agree with you, the thing is that’s just not how they use it at the truck stops sadly.
I do agree with the pretrip Not only that also the airlines Lights as well.
Yup, did bulk tanker for. 5 years, that made backing in van and reefer backing a breeze.
That’s really true and helpful thank you keep doing that’s very important to do so many drivers.
Thank you for the advices
I work at a big warehouse shipping dept, and we get drivers that come in Al the time in sweat pants and wrinkled shirts and just look pathetic. Everyone makes fun of them and calls them nasty and then you have the guys that actually come in with blue jeans on and work boots on and they are always the ones with clean rides and take pride in their work unlike the people who just do it for money and look like bums coming into the warehouse.
This is super accurate!
When backing the road trainer told me to use all available real-estate. The CB actually helped me back into a spot as the one truck that was sticking out a bit giving me reduced space the guy sitting in it was basically spotting that spot for me as he don't want his big nice Kenworth to get hit and since he stuck out 3 to 5 feet more then everyone else it was a good thing. I do however have a cheap ass Midland right now. I already have my line ready for if someone gives me crap about taking so long to put it in. "The rookie backed it in without hitting anything"
I am on reginal to my area and that helps me not rely on the GPS for the most part as I know most the roads.
Keep your dash/ windshield clean and clear. Nothing unnecessary. You can see better, you have good airflow on the windshield and it looks much better to DOT.
Just stumbled across your channel, it popped up in my feed. Decided to check it out and I like what you had to say so I subscribed. Many years ago I always wanted to be a truck driver. In fact it goes as far back into my grade school days when they asked kids "What do you want to be when you grow up?" I always said a truck driver... but.. life got in the way and time passed me by. I'm in my 40's now so it's a bit late for me. However, that never changed the fact that to this day I'm still fascinated by semi trucks. Anyway, I found your channel to be informative so I'll be sticking around to watch your videos from here on out. Cheers!
Its never too late man, i have a student learning with me hes 55! Follow your heart.
The GPS route will take you to the restricted road where no trucks allowed
Overall very good video your comments at the end about cutting off trucks I wholly agree with. One of the things I hate to see truck drivers do it is also push traffic down the road
Driving since 1997,,,I still get out and look even at shippers and receivers