First Time On Road

Today in CDL school I went on the road for the first time. I didn't really white knuckle it, but boy I was on edge. You really have to respect that machine. I'm sure it will get easier with experience and practice. I just wanted to say I give you drivers a lot of credit

Yes, Grumpy, the first few times there truck seems really wide. It's a project just to keep between the lines. In a bit you will be able to thread narrow construction lanes no sweat.

I know what you mean. I struggled at first because just steering the thing down the road was taking all my concentration. Anyway, congrats on your first road trip.

Congrats! What a feeling huh? I don't think I white knuckled it my first time, every joint in my body must have been white!!! I'm glad to report, it goes away for the most part. I still tense up thru narrow construction lanes. Particularly when you have those concrete barriers on both sides of you for MILES. It's worse at night for me. Reflective markers and cones and pylons that seem to go on forever in your headlights!

Thanks everybody! I think my first concern is getting used to the air brakes. First not enough pedal, then too much pedal. Gaining confidence in the fact this beast will stop and how to stop it correctly. Going down a hill was very interesting...lol.

Congratulations BigGrumpy! Hopefully you will soon be BigHappy. 😊

That's a big step. You will get more comfortable and confidence every time you go out.

As one of my old instructors used to bark at me; "watch your wagon Driver, watch you wagon"!

Good luck!

I look forward to the day I can do that. I'm trying to weasel my way into a trip around the track of the Volvo plant on one of my trips there. It's private property, so no CDLP or CDL needed. Just being in the right place at the right time. You can see the track here.