There’s a lot more to driving a truck than just getting behind the wheel and going. If you’re thinking about becoming a truck driver, there are some things you need to understand first. Here’s a look at the most important things to know before you make the leap into trucking.
1. There are risks
Just like any other profession, there are risks associated with truck driving. One of the biggest dangers is being on the road for long periods of time. Truck drivers can be away from home for weeks at a time, and that can take its toll both mentally and physically. Drivers also need to be aware of the dangers of fatigue, which can lead to tragic accidents.
Often, the riskiest part of the job is being in the cab of the truck, where drivers can be easily injured if there’s a crash. This is why there are a lot of truck accident attorneys all over the country. If this happens to you, and you find yourself without an attorney, you should definitely find one as soon as possible. For example, if you live in Oklahoma, you can find a truck accident attorney in Moore to help you. This will make sure you’re fairly compensated for your injuries and any damages you may have suffered if something happens.
There are various regulations you need to follow when it comes to truck driving, and failing to follow them can lead to severe consequences like getting your license revoked or even facing legal charges. It’s crucial to make sure you are aware of all the regulations and laws governing the industry. For example, short haul exemption allows drivers to operate trucks without keeping a logbook if they stay within 150 air miles of their reporting location and return to the same place each day. However, this exemption can only be used once within any consecutive seven-day period.
2. It’s not just driving
While the majority of truck drivers do spend a lot of time behind the wheel, there’s more to the job than just driving. Drivers also need to be able to do basic maintenance on their trucks, like checking the oil and tire pressure. They also need to be able to load and unload their trucks, which can often be heavy and difficult work. This is why strength and stamina are important qualities for truck drivers. In addition, drivers need to be able to keep track of their paperwork and logs, which can be complicated.
And, of course, they need to be able to navigate their way around the country using maps or GPS devices. As you can see, there’s a lot more to being a truck driver than just driving. Truck driving isn’t for everyone. It takes a special kind of person to be able to handle the long hours on the road, the sometimes difficult work, and the risks that come with the job.
3. The pay can be good
While the pay for truck drivers varies depending on their experience and the type of truck they’re driving, it can be a good wage. In general, truck drivers make more than the national average salary. This is especially true for drivers who have been in the industry for a while and have experience driving different types of trucks. And, as the economy continues to improve, the demand for truck drivers is increasing, which means that the pay is likely to go up even more in the future.
So if you’re looking for a good-paying job that doesn’t require a college degree, truck driving may be a good option for you. You just need to have the right qualifications and be willing to take on the challenges of the job. Also, it’s important to be aware that the job isn’t always easy, even though the pay is good. You need to be able to handle anything that comes your way if you want to be a successful truck driver.
4. You need to be able to travel
One of the biggest requirements for truck drivers is being able to travel. Drivers often need to drive long distances, sometimes hundreds or even thousands of miles, to get to their destinations. This can be difficult for people who don’t like to travel or aren’t used to being on the road for long periods of time. If you’re not comfortable traveling, truck driving may not be the right job for you.
As mentioned earlier, truck drivers typically have to work long hours. This can be difficult for people who are used to working traditional 9-to-5 jobs. Truck drivers may have to work nights, weekends, and holidays. They may also have to drive long hours in order to make it to their destinations on time. The trucking industry is changing rapidly, and it’s important to be aware of these changes if you’re thinking about becoming a truck driver.
Also, it’s essential to be familiar with the rules and regulations of the trucking industry.
So, if you’re thinking about becoming a truck driver, it’s important to be aware of the challenges and rewards that come with the job. The trucking industry is changing rapidly, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest news and changes. And, most importantly, make sure you have the right qualifications and are willing to work hard to be a successful truck driver. Good luck!