How truckers help keep all highway motorists safe
Commercial truck drivers have many responsibilities, including safely transporting their cargo to its point of delivery and keeping the surrounding motorists safe. Driving a commercial truck for a living can be a rewarding career that offers long-term stability and higher-than-average starting pay. But it is also a challenging job, which is why carriers seek professionally trained drivers for thousands of job openings across the country.
Well-Trained Truck Drivers Keep Highways Safe
The need to practice safe driving is most important during the winter holiday travel period, defined as Dec. 23 through Jan. 2. According to AAA, road travel continues to be the favored transportation method among Americans, with air and other methods rounding out the top three. Over 100 million headed to their festivity destinations in a road vehicle in 2021, which equates to ~30% of the country’s total population. This equaled high holiday traffic on all roads.
AAA also expected to respond to over 917,000 motorists who encountered an issue on the road in 2021. To help alleviate some stress this holiday season, you can plan to account for any issues that may arise. AAA suggests getting inspections done early to avoid any unavoidable breakdowns. In addition, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises stocking your vehicle with essential items, such as an ice scraper, jumper cables, extra clothes, and non-perishable food items.
Holiday Travel Tips for Truck Drivers
In addition to the regular motorists venturing out during this winter season, professional drivers also have a heightened level of responsibility, awareness, and driving skills during this time. According to the NHTSA, an estimated 182,000 police-reported crashes occurred in wintry conditions in 2021. These incidents caused high holiday traffic patterns and delays for all, especially professional drivers, who work to meet tight deadlines with every delivery.
One of our carrier partners, Schneider, compiled a list of the top winter tips for truck drivers. The list includes tips such as exercising caution on entrance and exit ramps and increasing your following distance to 7-14 seconds to allow full recognition of all moves surrounding motorists may make.
Professional Drivers Train at DDA
Safe driving is essential year-round, but highlighted during the holidays as more motorists venture out on the highways. Truck carriers are looking for drivers who can safely handle a commercial truck and those that have received professional training from a respected CDL training program.
Diesel Driving Academy offers multiple CDL training programs that help job seekers start long-term careers as professional truck drivers. With Financial Aid available to those who qualify, along with our Job Placement program, we ensure every student is set up for success in their new profession.
Interested in beginning your new professional driving career? Contact us today or fill out the form on this page!