How did you learn to drive?

my instructor likes the idea of 1 to 2 years experience being trainers for the newly graduated drivers. says that way we have not had time to develope to many bad habits to pass along to the next driver instead of the 30 year guys who say there way is best and the heck with what you were taught in school

 

I went to Commercial Drivers Institute, in the early 80's. It was tough for a newbie to get a job back then, but I got on with TransAmerican, from Grand Rapids MI. They were terrible, only made it there a month. Went back to factory work to pay the bills. After a few years of that, went out with an O/O for Atlas Van Lines. That lasted a couple of months, til I got a job in a warehouse. That lasted about 2 years, saw an ad in the paper for Central Transport. They were paying double what I was making in the warehouse, for local drivers.

I filled out the app, and was one of about 5 hired. I heard the rest of the applicant's couldn't pass the drug screen! Been driving ever since.

 

I believe because of the litigious society we now live is the biggest culprit. Also much heavier traffic than there used to be. But lawyers, insurance companies, and the "it's not my fault attitude" have lead to where we are today.

 

WHen your husband learned to drive,I imagine that's when trucking was actually fun and drivers helping one another.Now its like eavery driver for him or herself.I agree,newbys training newbys is no different then the blind leading the blind.Drivers should have a solid yr otr exp and with a near perfect mvr.But with companies all you need is what 6 months and you're as good as in to be a trainer.FMCSA is all about safety so they say,ya right.If they are so much into safety then certain things needs to be changed.I learned how to drive trk at Werner.I got lucky though,I had an excellent trainer that was all about safety and very patient with 12 yrs exp.

 

I was raised in this industry. All I ever known. Dad just put me behind the wheel and told me "Youve watched me all your life, its your turn". When I was young I admired all the drivers and dreamed of being one. So, I learned to respect it. Love who I am. Love what I do. Wouldnt want to do anything else...Never will. Take care.

 

What he said /\.

 

Been around trucks all my life , Grandfather , Father, Uncle all had a part in my training , then one day it was heres the keys away you go.

And regardless of the STORIES about the old days it was not always fun and not every driver was helpful.

 

When you say private training,are you talking about training with a carrier?I actually got my start at a trucking school but I don't really consider that learning to drive.Because my real learning began with werner.