Profile For Mike B.

Hi everyone. I'd like to preface this post by acknowledging the eight billion other posts similar to this one. I don't mean to be redundant. I've been lurking and finally decided to create a profile so I could contribute to the forum. Here goes:

We all have a story in life and our situations vary. I've never been a professional driver, but I have always been fascinated by it. I'm not sure if it's the freedom or the self-reliance that appeals to me, but either way, I'm curious about what it's like to be a trucker.

As I inch closer to my 40th journey around the sun, I find myself wanting to try a different path. I have always worked in an office, but I admit my jealousy of those who are on the road. Even though I've never stepped foot inside a tractor trailer, I find myself increasingly more and more curious of what it's like to be a professional driver.

I'm curious about, well, the whole industry. Aside from reading forums and such, I don't have a way to directly experience it first hand. And there's something about being able to see the country from behind the wheel—or better yet, having your own rig with some living space on board!—that appeals to me more than any other job description out there right now.

Ultimately, there are many things that interest me about this industry: the people, the lifestyle, etc. But there is one thing that really stands out for me: community—the sense of family and belonging that drivers seem to have for each other. I realize the profession is not for everyone, that much I know.

I'm on the East Coast - Mid-Atlantic region. I feel kind of foolish for putting this out there, because I know what I'm looking for is unlikely to materialize. I'm referring to a ride-along opportunity with a driver who'd be willing to host me and allow me to tag along for a day or two - or however long it works out to be. I understand the liability issue. From my research, I'm still not 100% certain this is an option; but if it is, I'm willing to pay for upfront, or reimburse, a driver for the cost of a guest insurance policy - if there is such a thing.

What I'm getting at is, if there is any financial cost associated with allowing me to tag along and experience the "real deal" life on the road dream, I'd cover it. I realize the all-around risk to drivers who allow ride alongs. I get it. I'll stop rambling now....

I appreciate any advice or recommendations. And of course, if there are any openminded drivers out there willing to afford me the experience, then I'd appreciate your consideration. Also, thanks for humoring me with this post. I know it's unlikely the ride-along will materialize, but, hey, I figured it was worth a shot. Thanks for your time.