There’s nothing easy about truck driving. Truck drivers must be patient, timely, and responsible. It doesn’t matter whether it involves short hauls or long-distance over-the-road hauls—truck driving is a serious business. If you’re new to the job and just completed your CDL licensing process, you may still have unanswered questions or concerns. Use the best resources for new truck drivers to find answers.
The CDL Website
The CDL website is full of top-tier resources ready to help any new truck driver excel at their job. Whether you want information on becoming a truck driver, how much truck drivers make, or CDL practice tests, there are plenty of online resources to use. Simply go onto the CDL.com page and then look under the “Trucking Resources” tab to find it. From there, you’ll see new driver resources on how to prepare for the job. They include diet tips, pre-trip inspection checklists, safety tips, and much more.
Legal Representation
Another one of the best resources for new truck drivers is legal help. Every truck driver, new or experienced, must have some sort of legal representation. A traffic ticket attorney helps clear your CDL record to maintain your job. They’ll provide legal advice, handle courtroom negotiations, and preserve your driving record if you face speeding, logbook, equipment, or overweight load violations. They’ll also help you deal with suspended licenses and more. Having any of these issues on your CDL record impacts your career as a truck driver. Do your best to avoid these issues. Talking to a legal representative will help diffuse unresolved issues.
Trade Unions
Finally, talk to your trade union if you’re a member. Truck driving unions hire new drivers, give them necessary work experience, and deal with employers. Moreover, they negotiate union drivers’ contracts with employers. Teamsters is the largest truck driving union to date. Look for some unions like that in your area. YRC Union trucking companies may provide better pay and benefits than private companies. While you might luck out with a well-established company, consulting a trade union boosts any new truck driver’s career with the needed benefits to make it a lifelong profession.
