Wisdom from the Road

Every mile on the highway holds a lesson. For professional truck drivers, those lessons add up to a lifetime of knowledge. So we’ve gathered the collective wisdom of experienced drivers looking to share their best advice and tips. Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned hauler, these insights offer practical guidance for safe driving.

Maintain Situational Awareness

One of the most important truck driver safety tips is simple: never stop scanning. Keeping your eyes moving allows you to spot hazards early, whether it’s slowing traffic, merging vehicles, or debris on the road. Professional drivers aim to look 12-15 seconds ahead, constantly checking mirrors and watching for changes in speed or direction around them.

Equally important is knowing your blind spots and how other vehicles move within them. Non-truck drivers often don’t realize how limited a truck’s visibility can be. By regularly checking mirrors and anticipating where smaller vehicles may disappear from view, you can make smarter, safer decisions, especially when changing lanes or turning. This kind of situational awareness helps prevent the sudden braking or swerving that can lead to accidents.

Managing Fatigue: Know Your Limits

Driver fatigue is a common, and dangerous, risk. Drowsy driving can impair judgment and reaction time just as much as alcohol. Knowing your body’s limits and listening to warning signs like heavy eyes, zoning out, or missing exits is essential for safe driving.

To manage your fatigue, plan rest stops ahead of time, stay hydrated, and use breaks to stretch and reset. If you’re tired, take a nap. Even 20 minutes can make a difference. The FMCSA Hours of Service rules are designed to protect drivers from fatigue. Make sure you always follow them for your safety and the safety of everyone else on the road.

Be Prepared for all Weather Conditions

No two trips are the same, and the weather is one of the biggest variables. When rain, snow, or fog roll in, the best drivers slow down, increase their following distance, and adjust braking habits. Check out our post “What Truck Drivers Should Know About Driving in Bad Weather” for even more safe driving tips in tricky weather conditions.

Before every trip, check weather forecasts and road closures along your route so you can plan ahead. And since the weather can be unpredictable, keep a well-stocked emergency kit, tire chains, warm clothing, gloves, blankets, and extra windshield washer fluid on hand in case the forecast along your route changes. Always remember that it’s better to lose an hour than to lose control.

Slow and Steady Backing and Parking

When parking or backing up, give yourself plenty of space. Look for spots with wide lanes and open areas so you have room to maneuver safely. Tight spaces can lead to costly mistakes, so if a spot feels too cramped, move on to one that gives you better clearance.

Always take your time. Rushing increases the chance of hitting obstacles or other vehicles. And remember the golden rule of parking and backing: GOAL, or “Get Out And Look.” It only takes a minute, but it can save you from damage, downtime, and unnecessary stress. 

Backing and parking may seem routine, but patience and awareness in these moments are what set professional drivers apart.

Real Tips from Pride Transport Drivers

Our Pride Transport drivers have logged millions of miles, and with that comes a wealth of hard-earned wisdom. Here are some of their best pieces of advice for safe driving for truckers, by truckers.

“Maintain a safe distance when driving and be aware of your surroundings as well, and check your mirrors every 5-8 seconds.” – Eugene P.

“If you see a bunch of skidmarks on the road, it's a problem area (like an upcoming bottleneck). Get off the accelerator and cover your brake. You don't want to be on tonight's five o'clock news.” – Bill G.

“Never be in a hurry.” – David C.

“Take your time, and don't rush it. Don't let anyone else's hurry ruin your day. They will wait and they will get over it.” – Sharron D.

“GOAL: Get Out And Look.” – Curtis K.

“Space. … If you see people tailgating in both lanes, swallow your pride (no pun intended) and drop 2-3 MPH and let the situation resolve before proceeding.” – Drew D.

“Better to get there late than not at all.” – Jeremy O.

“Know your equipment every shift start.” – Daniel F.

“Keep your truck looking clean, it’s a representation of not only the company, but you as well.

#TakePRIDEinyourride” – Chris T.

Pre-Trip Inspections Help Prevent Breakdowns

Daily pre-trip inspections are your first line of defense against breakdowns and safety issues. Take the time to walk around your truck and trailer before you start your day. Check tires for wear, inspect lights and reflectors, and test brakes. Many common problems can be caught early with consistent checks. Reliability starts with preparation.

Use Technology to Support Your Safe Driving

Modern trucks come equipped with amazing technology like lane assist, dash cams, adaptive cruise control, GPS navigation, and more. These tools can make truck driving safer, easier, and more efficient, but they’re not a substitute for experience and safe habits. Use technology to enhance your awareness, not replace it. Know how your systems work and when to trust them, but be careful not to use them as an excuse to let your mind wander. Even the smartest devices can’t match the situational judgment of a skilled driver.

Drive Safe - Drive With Pride

Safety isn’t a one-time checklist; it’s a mindset that evolves with experience and care. At Pride Transport, we’re proud to learn from our drivers and share their wisdom with others. Their professionalism and dedication to truck driver safety set the standard for what it means to Drive with Pride.

Ready to join a company that values experience, safety, and respect on the road? Our drivers benefit from reliable routes, competitive pay, and a helpful team. Learn more about driving opportunities with Pride Transport.