A Writer and His Research

Hello everyone. I've been a member of the forum for some time, but only now have I finally got around to posting the questions that are pertinent to the research I'm doing as a writer. And yes, I realize it's been quite a long time but writing isn't easy--especially if you have dozens of projects going on simultaneously. I've finally buckled down and promised myself that I'm going to focus on only one project at a time until it's ready to be submitted for publication. I have a bad habit of side-tracking myself because I set one story down before it's finished in order to start a new one. Don't ask me why.

Anyway, one of the characters in a short story I'm writing is a truck driver. I'm sure you all understand why writers must do research in an effort to get their facts straight. Surely some or many of you read, so you know how frustrating it is to encounter something when it's obvious the author didn't take the time to check the facts.

So, here I am. I've been cruising through the forums, trying to get a feel for the life and the language of the modern truck driver. I was also fortunate enough to interview one gentleman who was a driver before he started working at my place of employment. And of course, the documentary Big Rig on Hulu was a great inspiration. But most importantly, I feel very fortunate to have a community of truck drivers here on Truckers Report who are so kind and willing to help by answering my questions. Thank you so much. I'll see you on the forums!