5 Things You Should Know About Being a Truck Driver
By TOI Staff July 18, 2023 Update on : July 18, 2023
There are about 3.5 million employed truck drivers in the U.S. as of 2021.
Working as a truck driver is an exciting and rewarding job. If you enjoy traveling and meeting new people, truck driving can be a great way to make a living.
A career in trucking also has its perks, including a flexible work schedule and access to a 401(k) plan. Truck driving jobs are also in high demand across the country.
If you’re thinking about becoming a truck driver, here are some things to consider.
1. You Need a Clean Driving Record
Most trucking companies require that you have a clean driving record.
This means no convictions for driving under the influence (DUI) or other major infractions, like reckless driving. You may also need to pass a drug test and get fingerprinted by law enforcement when applying for your commercial driver’s license (CDL).
The company will do a background check and may ask you for additional information to verify your identity.
2. The Culture Is Unique and Complex
The trucking industry is a tight-knit community. It’s also a world unto itself that may seem strange to outsiders.
You may need to learn a new vocabulary and develop a thicker skin. In trucking, it’s not uncommon to hear colorful language or see people wearing unusual clothing.
An open mind and a willingness to learn will get you accepted into this community.
3. You Can Make Good Money
Trucking can be a lucrative career. You’ll earn a great hourly wage and have plenty of opportunities for overtime.
Plus, you’ll likely receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. In addition, the trucking industry is growing and will continue to do so over the next decade.
This means that you’ll have plenty of job opportunities throughout your career.
4. Retention Is a Problem
Trucking is physically demanding work, and many drivers get exhausted by it.
When you’re driving for hours at a time, day after day, it’s difficult to remain motivated. In addition, truckers often work weekends or overnight shifts, which can make it hard to maintain a social life outside of work.
These factors can contribute to high turnover rates.
5. You Should Have an Accident Attorney on Hand
It is important for a truck driver to always be prepared for the possibility of a trucking accident while on the road.
These accidents can leave you injured and unable to work, which can put a serious dent in your paycheck. It’s important to have an accident attorney on hand who knows how the trucking industry works and how to best represent their clients.
You can search for trucking accident attorney here to represent your interests.
Truck Driver: A Great Job for Many People
A truck driver is a great job for people who enjoy the open road and want to make good money.
It can be challenging, but many people love their jobs as truck drivers and wouldn’t change it for anything else. If you think you might enjoy this type of work, then give it a shot! For more truck driving tips and tricks, check out the latest articles on our blog.
Read more: 5 Things You Should Know About Being a Truck Driver