Rookie truck drivers may not have had the chance to gain the valuable experience that comes from years on the road, which can lead to mistakes at the beginning of their truck driving career. However, there are some mistakes that even veteran long-haul drivers make. These mistakes can be costly for trucking companies and, more importantly, put you, the driver, at risk of serious injury. In this post, we’ll look at common mistakes rookie truck drivers make so you can avoid them yourself:

Going Too Fast 

Speed limits are not suggestions. They’re laws. Speed limits help keep everyone safe and prevent accidents, so always obey them.

Keep this in mind when driving around curves on highways or even just through city streets: The posted speed limit can change depending on whether there’s construction nearby or whether there are other vehicles parked on both sides of the road (which could reduce visibility). Again: Always drive according to posted signs!

Ignoring Road Signs

Road signs are there for a reason. They are meant to keep you safe and ensure you stay on the right path, but rookie truck drivers often ignore them or fail to pay attention. Ignoring road signs is one of the most common mistakes that rookie drivers make.

You don’t want your first day behind the wheel to end with an accident or getting pulled over by police officers who could write you up and jeopardize your truck driving career.

Not Communicating with Your Operations Manager

If you experience a problem while on the road and need help, always communicate with your operations manager. Just like you, they play an integral role in the trucking company you work for, and it’s their job to assist and equip you with everything you need to do your job safely. Remember these things:

• Be sure to speak clearly and calmly so that they can understand what you need.
• Ask questions about anything that needs clarification.
• If there’s an issue on the road ahead of you, like an accident or unexpected weather conditions, let them know so they can prepare for possible traffic delays and help you navigate the situation safely.

Not Preparing Yourself for the Stress

Stress is a normal part of life and can come from many sources. Truck driving jobs are inherently stressful, but truck drivers should be aware of possible stressors that could arise and how to prepare for and avoid them.

• Physical stress – Driving for long periods can take a toll on your body, especially if you are not properly rested or nourished before starting your shift.  
• Mental stress – Situations like inclement weather or traffic congestion may cause frustration, anger, and distraction when driving conditions are not ideal. 
• Emotional stress – Drivers should always be mindful of this aspect of their work environment. Regardless of what’s going on with your home life, coming across as condescending, arrogant, or demeaning during conversations with fellow truck drivers leads to unnecessary conflicts and affects everyone involved. At Warrior Logistics, our core values include treating everyone with integrity, accountability, and professionalism. 

Burnout 

Truck driving is demanding, and you need to be physically and mentally prepared for it. To keep yourself in tip-top shape, you should get enough sleep, eat right, and take care of your body. Never get behind the wheel if you’re unwell. Taking care of yourself should be your first priority, and if you work for a trucking company like Warrior Logistics, it will be theirs too. 

Grow Your Career as a Professional Truck Driver with Warrior Logistics!  

At the end of the day, we’re all humans. We make mistakes. But knowing which to avoid when it comes to truck driving is critical and can mean the difference between life and death. While valuable experience can only be gained while on the road, Warrior Logistics provides its truck drivers with everything they need to set themselves up for success.

Join Warrior Logistics as a professional truck driver and move your career forward with one of the industry’s largest transportation companies! Entry-level and experienced truck driver positions are needed in Dallas, Houston, Denver, and Kansas City. Apply today!