Truck drivers are the backbone of America. A crucial part of our economy and its stimulation depends on drivers to transport freight across city and state lines. Unfortunately, there are many myths associated with truck driving jobs and about the truck driving lifestyle. In this blog post, we’ll set the record straight and debunk some myths and common misconceptions in truck driving.

Discover the truth about truck driving and consider exploring this secure and fulfilling career option. 

Myth #1: Truck drivers are not well paid

This is simply untrue based on the number of semi-trucks that can be found on the road at any given time. A career in truck driving means abundant and lucrative work. On average, truck drivers earn $70,000 a year and get paid by the type of route they drive. Because of this, over-the-road (OTR) drivers can often rake in six figures.

Myth #2: Truck drivers are only men

Female truck drivers currently represent 7.8% of professional truck drivers in America. While male truck drivers still make up the majority of the industry’s demographic, women make up more than 10% of OTR drivers, which is an increase of approximately 30% from 2018. Furthermore, the growing trend of women in the trucking industry doesn’t stop at the wheel! The percentage of women executives in trucking companies has increased to more than 24% year over year. Female representation is critical as we continue to debunk the common myths about truck driving and can potentially bring to light respectable career opportunities for future generations.

Myth #3: Truck automation will replace the need for human truck drivers

Despite the buzz growing around self-driving trucks, truck drivers shouldn’t stress about their job security. While automated trucks can offer several benefits, they will not replace human truck drivers in the near future. This is because even the most sophisticated self-driving truck still needs an experienced truck driver to supervise at all times. There’s also more to the job than simply driving. Truck drivers perform several tasks including loading and unloading freight, providing excellent customer service, and dispatching details about various orders.

Myth #4: The truck driving lifestyle is unhealthy

Even though truck driving requires sitting for lengthy periods of time, it doesn’t mean that truck drivers are inherently unhealthy. In fact, drivers are required to be in great physical health to ensure that they are fit to drive. Before setting out on the open road, drivers must pass the Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination. This health exam is required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and helps to determine if a driver is in good mental, physical, and emotional condition to safely operate commercial vehicles.

Myth #5: Truck drivers are always on the road

A truck driving career presents the opportunity to stay out on the open road for days, weeks, or even months at a time. However, truck drivers will never be forced to stay out longer than they prefer. At Warrior Logistics, our drivers enjoy flexible schedules and can receive time off on a weekly basis. Some drivers go home every night while others stay out for weeks at a time. It just depends on your lifestyle and the job type you choose.

Myth #6: Truck drivers are reckless drivers

This myth is prime for debunking. Gone are the days of the stereotypical truck driver taking to the wheel and causing mayhem along the way. Professional truck drivers are not going to risk losing their livelihood by driving recklessly. To drive for professional carriers, drivers must have and maintain a great driving record. Keeping your driving record clean can be difficult for the average driver. Now think of doing that for hundreds of miles a day. Truck drivers are required to pay close attention to road signs, cannot drive in the left lane in some cases, and receive extensive training on how to navigate difficult road conditions. After all, it’s their job!

Myth #7: Truck driving is lonely

This is true if you think of truck driving as isolation rather than an opportunity. Truck driving is basically living the “van lifestyle” people dream about after retirement or during their gap year. People don’t often associate traveling in an RV after retirement as lonely, so why is this the case for truck driving? Truck drivers get to experience all four seasons, explore every state in the country, and meet new people, all while gainfully employed. What’s better than that?

Drive with Warrior Logistics

At Warrior Logistics, we believe people are our greatest assets. We strive to create a superior environment to empower each of our drivers to reach their fullest potential. Our company culture is second to none, and we always operate with a driver-centric mindset. If you are looking for a secure and rewarding truck driving career with one of the industry’s largest transportation companies, consider joining our Warrior team and apply today!