Hiring the right truck drivers makes a huge difference, both to the success of your trucking company and to public safety on the road. Trucking companies have a responsibility to themselves and others to hire seasoned, experienced truck drivers and to provide sufficient training and guidance to newer, inexperienced truckers. Keep in mind that experienced drivers will generally command a higher salary, but that cost is worth it for keeping your cargo, trucks, driver, and other people on the road safe. Experienced drivers are also typically easy to work with and will complete jobs reliably with a professional manner. Plus, insurance premiums can be less for experienced drivers with a good driving history. On the other hand, newer drivers shouldn’t be left out because often times they will be more flexible and can learn from your base of experienced drivers. It’s best to keep an eye on the future.
Keeping the Road Safe for Themselves and Others
No one can deny that truck driving is dangerous. Truck drivers manage heavy vehicles, sometimes carrying hazardous materials. Handling a truck safely requires caution and knowledge of how a rig moves when fully loaded or without a load. An experienced driver knows how to maintain a proper following distance, adjust to poor weather conditions, slow down properly when approaching exits and turns, and maneuver around obstacles. They also have more experience controlling emotion when sharing the road with less thoughtful drivers. Careful driving keeps the truck driver and other drivers safe, reducing the risk of accidents as much as possible. It also protects the truck and its cargo from damage. Experienced drivers also know what to look for when it comes to mechanical and maintenance issues. They typically have their pre-trip inspections down to a science, and they recognize warning signs when they’re on the road. Experienced drivers make for safer roads and better-protected cargo.
Experienced Drivers Know Their Limits
There’s no substitute for experience when it comes to knowing and understanding your personal limitations. Experienced truck drivers know how to balance the demand to meet schedules with the need for rest. They know how to pace themselves properly to stay alert and complete long hauls safely. With experience, drivers recognize the value of driving slowly and methodically rather than rushing to meet deadlines.
Experience Makes Drivers Better Employees
The best truck drivers are not only great at being on the road; they’re skilled at communicating with their company and with customers. As a general rule, experienced drivers know that calm, rational discussion is best. They communicate well with their dispatchers, and if necessary they’ll contact customers to ensure a smooth delivery. It takes a certain level of experience to understand how details work within each part of the trucking and delivery business. Experienced truckers have worked for long enough that they understand the industry and their place within it. They can set realistic delivery timetables and are reliable when it comes to following through. Perhaps most importantly, truck drivers who have been on the road for a while take a sense of pride and ownership in what they do. They value their rig and their job, and that sense of respect permeates the good work that they do.
