Millis OTR journal

I usually talk through my mental checklist before connecting or dropping a trailer, especially since I've got one of the trucks with the fifth wheel release that won't work right.

 

One thing you can do to try and prevent someone from tampering with your 5th wheel handle by pulling on it is set your trailer brakes go forward then set your tractor brakes... it will literally be nearly impossible for them to pull on your handle and release your fifth wheel

 

Great idea! The very thing that I do to myself can also potentially frustrate someone else!!!

 

Yes I was aware of that tactic too but never got into the habit of it.

 

With all the new rules, regulations and policies new drivers face he probably thought he was working smarter instead of harder. He probably won't make this mistake again unless he forgets it.

 

I hope not, I’ve been on the fence as to whether he needs a different trainer. He is a good guy but sometimes just seems lazy.

 

His laziness could get someone killed..that’s definitely something should be brought up to him and if that gets nowhere then talk to management...no laughing matter in this business when it comes to coupling and uncoupling trailers...

 

Keep trying with him. Keep reminding him how important these little things are. Now is the time for him to make mistakes now that he has you to watch him. Keep harping on him about safety, if he doesn't get it he should get a new trainer. Not your fault though.

 

I wish I would have started using the vice grips when the brakes won't hold the trailer when sliding the tandem sooner. That's so much easier than all the times I'd drag the trailer around until the brakes would hold.

 

I hate calling people out out but this guy pissed me off today. We were in a rush to get to New Jersey stopped real quick to use restroom. And this moron at the Loves in Lodi, OH was nowhere to be found. He was like that for a good ten minutes.