Is trucking worth it, given it's one of the most dangerous jobs in USA?

It's good that you are putting this out there and trying to your research. It's not an easy job but if you like to be alone and be responsible for yourself and the General Public then it is a good a job. The truck drivers that I see succeed in the business are the ones that like to drive and be alone. You have to have the attitude of happy go lucky and not let all the stupid people in the world ruin your day.If you can do that you will be a good truck driver. If you have a problem letting things roll off your back you will be an unhappy driver of a truck.

 

I guess my question would be, what are your practical career options?

I got my CDL simply because my other employment options, at least in this area that I choose to call home, are limited, at best.

Trucking is not an easy way to earn a living. In addition to the inherent dangers, you'll be challenged, often beyond what you may think you can handle. (Especially in those critical first few months.)

It definitely had its rewards.

 

It's okay but keep your life insurance premiums current just the same.

 

I think we have another hairdresser in the making here.

Stay indoors my man, where the big bad world won't getcha!

 

It really depends what your options are.

If you like to drive and you think that it would be something that you would enjoy then go for it.

You have to realize that a lot of the danger in driving isn't always other drivers. It's things like fatigue, excessive speed, following too closely, exiting or entering on ramps too quickly, tailgating, distracted driving, and the list goes on.

It certainly can be dangerous, but you have to learn how to drive defensively and use the size of the vehicle to your advantage. YOU have to be in control of the vehicle at all times.

Then if something does happen you are in a much better position to cope with it

It does not take all of the risk away but if you make yourself and your truck safe you drastically lower the odds.

 

The top 10 most dangerous occupations, as seen in the table below.
Rank Occupation Fatal injuries per 100,000 workers Total deaths
1 Logging workers 135.9 91
2 Fishers and related fishing workers 86 24
3 Aircraft pilots and flight engineers 55.5 75
4 Roofers 48.6 101
5 Trash and recycling collectors 34.1 31
6 Iron and steel wokers 25.1 16
7 Truck and sales drivers 24.7 918
8 Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers 23.1 260
9 First-line supervisors of construction trades and extraction workers 18 134
10 Grounds maintenance workers

 

Trucking is way down the list. I would think being a student is going to be top of the list soon

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