If you like to drive and travel, being a truck driver is a great career option for you. Keep in mind the following considerations when preparing for your first cross-country drive.
Refueling
Your company most likely pays for fueling expenses. However, you are responsible for monitoring your fuel level and planning your stops so that you never run out of gas or oil. Unlike in cities or suburbs, on major highways, many miles pass between gas stations. You also must remember what kind of fuel your vehicle requires. For example, trucks that use gas will not function properly after a diesel fuel injection.
Sleeping
Depending on how long you have to deliver your load, you may have to drive through the night. If so, you must sleep for at least a few hours before driving back to your company. Never try to drive after staying up all night. The time that you will save is not worth the risk of having a fatigue-related accident. Before leaving on especially long trips, book a hotel room near your destination so that you have somewhere to sleep after you arrive.
Eating
Eating helps you to stay awake and maintain your normal bodily functions. On long routes, you will be tempted to pull into the nearest fast-food drive-through. While this method works once in a while, do not make a habit of eating out. Pack your meals ahead of time and include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Many healthy foods such as apples, carrot sticks and nuts are easy to eat while driving. If you do need to stop to stretch your legs and take a break, buy coffee or another healthy drink rather than an entire meal.
As you prepare for a career as a truck driver, remember these tips to be as successful and healthy as possible.
