Newbie behind the wheel of a tractor trailer

Easy on the clutch and swing wide

 

When changing lanes, look in each mirror. Then look again.
Slow and Steady.

 

Use as much room as possible in turns.

 

Smith System? Whats is that?

 

Did you even attempt to use Google?

 

Smith System Driver Improvement Institute, Inc.

 

Going forward will become easy.while you’re with a trainer make sure you learn to back and setup your trailer. As a new driver it’ll be easy to rush thinking everybody sees you and wants you to hurry up. It’s important to learn to block out what others are thinking, calm down and take your time no matter how long it takes you

 

Well? I am curious to hear about the first day...

 

As others have stated, don't tailgate. What they are telling you will happen to you..... suddenly everyone ahead of you is slamming on the brakes. It will send shivers down your spine, if.... you get stopped in time. If not, you will have many other things to contend with... The following distance is in the DOT manual.... yes that thing, and it is possible most of the time despite what others will say in today's traffic. If someone gets in your zone, back peddle and retrieve your assured distance. You will thank these drivers on here soon enough.

Slow down. You will be in the same truck stop that night with most of the drivers that passed you that morning, stress free and sleeping like a baby. Takes years to figure that out. Some never do. Smooth and steady. Hare and the turtle.

Be kind to everyone out there. It may be your neighbor or a relative. Or your boss. Don't ask me how I know. At least I was only driving about 60 when it happened... twice. My dispatcher and a plant manager. Both were with family on vacation. Hey, one stopped and bought me breakfast, even though the company paid for all our meals.

Take time to enjoy the moment. The next one will get here far to quickly. One day you are too young, then a newbie and next, checking into the nursing home.