Backing

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Woodchuck88, May 12, 2017.

  1. Woodchuck88

    Woodchuck88 Medium Load Member

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    Jan 4, 2017
    New York
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    Here's the deal I can back like a SOB in any of my company's terminals or practice lots. But when it comes to backing near other people's property I choke and must GOAL 2-3 times before putting it in the spot. I am extremely paranoid about bumping another trailer or truck. Help me to calm my nerves. I am only 21 and terrified of getting one mark on my DAC. In my opinion I route and safely maneuver myself to a consignee better then my trainer. But I choke when I am backing in any lot but our own terminals.
     
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  3. crxdc

    crxdc Road Train Member

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    Las vegas NV
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    It dont matter if you GOAL 50 times. You do it till you are comfortable. I have been driving for a few years and i still do it a ton.
     
  4. GasHauler

    GasHauler Master FMCSA Interpreter

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    I think you're worried about what other drivers will say. Just slow down and screw them. I'm retired now and after all my years I'd rather see a driver take 50 attempts than one that takes too few and hits something. Any driver with any experience knows backing is difficult and takes practice to get better. So just think of that driver that makes a comment about backing and I'll bet you he or she can not back themselves.
     
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  5. BlackThought

    BlackThought Medium Load Member

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    Jul 22, 2014
    Memphis,TN
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    You have a good problem.

    Take your time and don't destroy nothing. Don't matter if it takes you ten minutes to park. Everyone would rather you be cautious than stupidly confident.
     
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  6. Woodchuck88

    Woodchuck88 Medium Load Member

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    New York
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    Thank you bud. I truly believe I can get into any spot presented to me if I can keep it together and not let the SUPER TRUCKERS get on my nerves. After all its my liscense not the guys ready to retire.
     
  7. pattyj

    pattyj Road Train Member

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    Sioux City,ia
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    Remember those guys were once new so just ignore there comments unless its to help you.
     
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  8. dca

    dca Road Train Member

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    Earth
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    I remember waiting about two hrs for someone to back in, walked over to help out, they finally got it, made me late to my next load and the one after that.

    I wouldn't back in until that was finished
     
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  9. G13Tomcat

    G13Tomcat Road Train Member

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    Ohio
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    @Woodchuck88 ..... it's all been said above. ^^^^^ .... 20 years (plus) driving, and still.. if I need to GOAL, I will. Don't care (nor listen to) what anybody has to say! It's MY career, ya know?

    The day I get overconfident, is the day I hang up my keys!

    Best of luck to ya man, the jitters ease with time; promise.

    (ps: I remember back in the day my left leg would SHAKE when dbl clutching...literally bounce. Yeah, we were all new, once. At least you didn't have to learn with twin sticks, man! LoL~)
     
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  10. Woodchuck88

    Woodchuck88 Medium Load Member

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    Jan 4, 2017
    New York
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    Thank you, nice to know that there are understanding drivers out there that know what it's like to be new driver these days. After all, driving is all I've wanted to do since childhood. I know I'm starting from the bottom to work myself up. My owner/Op neighbor here in New York who has 39 years under his belt tells be everything I need to know. We talk every Saturday morning and I take notes on what he says. This mans truck is his life. 2.5 days out 1 day of maintenance in his own barn with one bay for the tractor and one for a trailer. Then back on the road. I still want to know other professional drivers opinions on backing and how to not feel rushed.
     
    G13Tomcat Thanks this.
  11. Woodchuck88

    Woodchuck88 Medium Load Member

    553
    1,103
    Jan 4, 2017
    New York
    0
    Thank you, nice to know that there are understanding drivers out there that know what it's like to be new driver these days. After all, driving is all I've wanted to do since childhood. I know I'm starting from the bottom to work myself up. My owner/Op neighbor here in New York who has 39 years under his belt tells be everything I need to know. We talk every Saturday morning and I take notes on what he says. This mans truck is his life. 2.5 days out 1 day of maintenance in his own barn with one bay for the tractor and one for a trailer. Then back on the road. I still want to know other professional drivers opinions on backing and how to not feel rushed.
     
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