Being a truck driver is an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only do you get to see the country, but you get to enjoy great pay and possibly be your own boss. However, like any career field, trucking comes with some challenges. Long hours, difficult terrain, and safety concerns are just a few of the issues that truck drivers face. In this blog, we’ll discuss some tips for female truck drivers to help make your experience a bit easier. Many of these tips apply to drivers of both genders.
Six tips for female truck drivers are:
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Have Confidence in Yourself
One tip for female truck drivers is to remain confident. You put in the hours to earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL) and know how to perform all the tasks necessary for a professional trucker. You may encounter other drivers offering to do difficult tasks for you, but you will not learn if you do not perform them yourself. You can further increase your confidence by asking questions and remaining calm in stressful situations.
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Be Patient While Driving
It is also necessary for all truck drivers to practice patience on the road. Whether you’re backing, navigating a large city, or learning the ropes of truck driving, it is important not to get frustrated when you make mistakes. Instead of viewing difficult situations as mistakes, look at them as learning opportunities.
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Prioritize Safety
Safety should always be one of your top priorities as a professional driver. As a female driver, you may need to take extra precautions to stay safe while on the road. Lock your truck’s doors when you’re not inside, and always be aware of your surroundings. At truck stops, keep your cab curtains closed, keep your doors locked, and have your cell phone handy and charged at all times in case of an emergency.
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Develop a Support Network
Another tip for women in trucking is to develop a support network. Staying connected with your family and friends can help make the long hours on the road go by faster. Check in with them regularly along your route and update them on your whereabouts. Reaching out to other truck drivers, both male and female, is another way to stay connected. Keeping in touch and forming bonds with other truckers will encourage you to keep working hard.
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Familiarize Yourself With Your Truck and Route
Knowing how to maintain and operate your truck is essential for any truck driver. Ensure you’re familiar with the various parts of your vehicle and how to handle them. Trip planning is another necessary aspect of truck driving. Before embarking on a new route, familiarize yourself with the terrain, landmarks, and potential hazards. This preparation will help you navigate quickly and safely.
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Drive For a Company That Values You
A final tip for female truck drivers is to work for a company that values you. Drive for a trucking company that prioritizes its employees and treats you with respect.
Find a Truck Driving School Near You
The trucking industry is an essential part of our nation’s economy, and the demand for male and female truck drivers continues to grow. Earning your CDL is the first step toward joining the industry, and you can do so at one of Phoenix Truck Driving School’s educational institutions. We have locations in Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico, with instructors committed to helping you prepare for your new career.
Contact us today to learn more about our CDL training programs.
