One year into a job feels like a long time, but ten years later you look back on your career and it feels like it happened really fast. As a truck driver with just a year of experience, you’re learning how to coordinate with operations, stay safe on the road and deliver to customers on time. Here are some tips for rookie truck drivers to help along the way.
#1 Your Safety is the First Priority
As a rookie truck driver, you’ve already assessed the risks of driving an over-the-road truck. That doesn’t mean you can’t do anything to mitigate your risk. Always conduct your daily pre-trip inspection before you start your day. It reduces the risk of breaking down on the road even if you think the truck was fine yesterday. And check the weather app. Some routes have more inclement weather than others, requiring strong bad-weather driving skills. It can also help you plan when and where you should stop.
#2 Take Care of Yourself
Advice for new truck drivers often includes logistics of the job, but more important is taking care of yourself so you can perform the job to the best of your ability. That’s why your physical and mental well-being are so important. Be sure to pack healthy snacks to avoid the sugary alternatives at rest stops. While taking a break, find out how many steps or laps it takes to get one mile around your truck and trailer.
#3 Take Care of Your Truck
Make sure all preventative maintenance happens for your truck on schedule. With a truck that is well taken care of, it will put in the miles you need it to. It’s also a good idea to keep spare tools with you in case there are any minor repairs you need to take care of on the road, like replacing a windshield wiper or a taillight. Back to tip #1, if any repairs put your safety at risk, do not do them.
#4 Be Good to Your Community of Truck Drivers
No one knows the experience of being an over-the-road truck driver like other truck drivers. Be courteous to other drivers on the road and don’t be afraid to ask for tips for new truck drivers.
#5 Drive for a Company that Treats You Like Family
If you’re looking for truck driving jobs in Wisconsin, look no further than Midwest Carriers. We have the best team and competitive wages, making us the obvious carrier choice. We’d love to have you join and grow with us. Meet a driver-focused company that puts you first by applying today.