Profile For Team 1 Trucker

Actually, a little cider vinegar in water will help reduce leg cramps. For me, that’s a big plus.

Andy, I’m 57, just started this new adventure ( yes it’s a career, but it’s MUCH more). For what it’s worth, here are my observations.

Trucking Truth and this forum are your best source for SOLID VERIFIABLE INFORMATION

High Road is the best online CDL training program you will find

You will NEVER get enough sleep while on the road

You WILL make mistakes

You WILL get lost

You WILL get frustrated (for me it’s the “hurry up and wait”)

Others (friends and family) will think you are crazy

You WILL have experiences that you NEVER DREAMED OF

You will meet some of the BEST and encounter some of the WORST that humanity has to offer

If you are serious, want to learn and are up for the challenges that WILL come, you are in for a great new life.

I’m really thankful that Werner has “special” fleet managers for newbies. These fleet managers have a lower (30 +-) driver load so they can coach the newbies through their first 2-3 months. This allows the FM to share what’s going on between planning, fleet management and driver. These guys and gals are doing a tough job, and they want the best for all of us....but if you are not willing to work with them, you deserve the crappy treatment that’s going to come your way.

As a newbie, I’m still confused by the 8/2 split and how to best take advantage of it. I’m constantly battling the clock (wether it be 11, 14 or 70) and searching for any ways to be more productive. Explanations, advice from veteran drivers is welcome.

Mine was a load of toilet paper (38,000#).....Ain’t that some crap!

Simon, welcome and thanks for the great posts! At 57 I just started driving this year - for Werner. I've had many similar experiences as you, being the old guy and not having too much difficulty backing (thanks to many years of backing boats). Anyhow I think your attitude of helping others and encouraging others to do the same is a breath of fresh air. Paying it forward really goes a long way out on the road

Grammys restaurant / checkered flag bar & grill across the street has really great food at very reasonable prices!

Ken, I also wear leg braces due to bilateral drop foot. I was concerned at first because there are a lot more physical requirements than one might expect. I really would love to flatbed, but Felt it would be best to start with dry van. So far it's working out well. I've graduated school, gone through orientation and 6 weeks of over the road training. I'm just finishing my first week solo and heading home tomorrow for some much needed time with my bride. Glad she's totally on board with this adventure. Good luck to you.

Thanks Errol and Brett. I'll use this to be a better trucker....and try not to sweat the small stuff.

Thanks Brett. I'm just a little freaked out by this whole incident. As a rookie (in training no less) my number one goal is "don't hit anything". I want to be a safe, productive, professional driver. I'm just concerned that this may jeopardize my career before it even gets started! As a "four wheeler" I've been accident free for 40 years and ticket free for over ten. I take driving seriously and am really looking forward to this new career / adventure. Thanks for all you've done for this industry and for me by creating and maintaining this awesome site!