Most important thing besides driving skill is your attitude. Not letting other drivers get you involved in their personal drama is key. There are too many bad, distracted, and uncaring drivers to contend with on the road every day so having your mind right will keep you out of trouble. Even if another driver is doing something that you don't understand doesn't give you the right to be a jerk. Just let them do what they're going to do, get out of your way, then continue your route. I stopped trying to figure out why people do what they do years ago. The last thing I want to mention, especially to the newer drivers, is to be friendly to your fellow truckers. We're all just trying to make a living and get home safe and no one needs the extra unnecessary irritation of another trucker honking and giving the one finger salute just because you think what you have to get done is more important than the other guy. Waiting is a big part of everyone's day and a little patience goes a long way. If you do this job long enough you'll learn patience and the importance of safe relaxed driving. Take it easy out there.
Posted: 5 years, 6 months ago
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What I learned from a ride-a-long with a real trucker
Most important thing besides driving skill is your attitude. Not letting other drivers get you involved in their personal drama is key. There are too many bad, distracted, and uncaring drivers to contend with on the road every day so having your mind right will keep you out of trouble. Even if another driver is doing something that you don't understand doesn't give you the right to be a jerk. Just let them do what they're going to do, get out of your way, then continue your route. I stopped trying to figure out why people do what they do years ago. The last thing I want to mention, especially to the newer drivers, is to be friendly to your fellow truckers. We're all just trying to make a living and get home safe and no one needs the extra unnecessary irritation of another trucker honking and giving the one finger salute just because you think what you have to get done is more important than the other guy. Waiting is a big part of everyone's day and a little patience goes a long way. If you do this job long enough you'll learn patience and the importance of safe relaxed driving. Take it easy out there.