Never driven & OTR w/ a learners?

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Seaoat, Jan 16, 2008.

  1. Seaoat

    Seaoat Bobtail Member

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    Jul 26, 2007
    Maryland
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    Hi All, I have a couple of horse transport companies that seem OK in bringing me up with only a class A learners (beside an exp. driver). I've never driven a tractor/trailer and am wondering if this is do-able with no hands on exp. It will be primarily racehorses (those I'm comfortable with, having o/o with a smaller rig) and running up/down I-95 to/from places w/chutes & large receiving areas.
    This decision requires relocating so, along w/ safety issues, I'm not taking it lightly.....your in-put is much appreciated. Thanks
     
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  3. Calitrucker712

    Calitrucker712 Light Load Member

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    Jan 14, 2008
    Arcata CA
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    no offense to you personally, but i wouldnt trust someone who hasnt gone through some sort of class A training and received a license to drive a big truck. its not smart or safe. Id suggest getting your license and seeing how many more doors will open up
     
  4. lilillill

    lilillill Sarcasm... it's not just for breakfast

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    Nov 7, 2007
    Possum Booger, Alabama
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    She already said she will be getting training, with an experienced driver. The fact that the training isn't through a school makes no difference whatsoever.

    Seaoat, if I am to understand correctly, you already have experience hauling horses with your own smaller rig? If that's true, you shouldn't have any problem stepping up to a larger vehicle. There's a difference in the way a big truck shifts compared to a vehicle with a synchronized transmission... but that is a skill you can pick up fairly quick.

    If you can back a dually with a gooseneck 7 horse slant, or any gooseneck trailer for that matter, then you can back a big truck. In fact, the longer the trailer, the easier they back.

    I say go for it.
     
  5. Big Duker

    Big Duker "Don Cheto"

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    Sep 18, 2007
    Weatherford, TX
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    I agree. Many of the so called Class A driving schools are churning out totally unprepared drivers at an alarming rate. If you can get with an experienced driver who will be patient and show you the safe and correct way to drive you will be as competent as almost any school graduate. Just make sure and ask questions if you are not sure about something. And a 48' or 53' is easier to back than a shorter unit. I worked as a welders helper in high school. I got to where I could back that little POS in anywhere. When I started driving large trucks it was simple. Good luck to you. Be safe.:biggrin_25519:
     
  6. Seaoat

    Seaoat Bobtail Member

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    Jul 26, 2007
    Maryland
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    Thank you all, I feel better. Was pulling a 40' head to head up and down coast (Miami, Tampa, NYC, Balt., Philly, Jersey tracks) but going this next step is a true nail biter. Most were by myself & not able to stop/sleep, more than a catnap or two, race stock tend to be edgier or on tight schedule. But I prefer those over a lot of milk runs that take as much time, going often into farms w/ bad roads or to funky places after dark (being female). It'll be a relief to have someone else helping drive, but imagine that takes some getting used to.
    I admire you all and this forum is a hugeHUGE help, tons of info. Thanks again.
     
  7. pjw044

    pjw044 Heavy Load Member

    You bet,GO FOR IT..
    Go slow and listen,ask questions,give it your best shot...
    You will do fine..
     
  8. lilillill

    lilillill Sarcasm... it's not just for breakfast

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    I guess that's what I get for ASSUMING. :biggrin_25521:

    My post above has been edited to reflect the new information.
     
  9. Seaoat

    Seaoat Bobtail Member

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    Jul 26, 2007
    Maryland
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    LOL! With one swipe of the keys I was altered :)
     
  10. lilillill

    lilillill Sarcasm... it's not just for breakfast

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    Nov 7, 2007
    Possum Booger, Alabama
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    Yes ma'am, you can call me Dr. Barcode. I offer the latest in CASC (Computer Aided Sex Changes).
     
  11. LadyTrucker99

    LadyTrucker99 Heavy Load Member

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    Jan 15, 2008
    Lexington, NC
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    Whatever you do--dont try to keep up with the "supertruckers" LOL Just wave at them as they pass you ;) Good luck to you!
     
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