Truck Driver Tales: Debunking Common Myths for Prospective Truckers

If you want to enroll in a truck driving school to pursue your dream of hitting the road in a big rig and embarking on an exciting new career, you may already be getting some negative feedback from your friends and family. These well-meaning loved ones may cause you to second guess your decision to become a truck driver.

However, many of their concerns are probably based on common myths rather than truth. Debunking the following myths about the truck driving life will eliminate any uncertainties you may have about the trucking life and will help you silence your critics.

Truck Driving is a Rough Life

Many of the myths about trucking being a rough life come from the earlier days in the trucking industry when drivers were expected to run on little sleep and drive until they could barely function.

 However, Department of Transportation regulations today place strict limits on the hours a driver can be on the road before taking a period of rest. These regulations are modified from time to time with the goal of keeping drivers safe on the road.

Additionally, new 18-wheelers are designed for comfort and are equipped with features to make time on the road less demanding, unlike older models that took a toll on the driver's physical body. From heated seats to roomy sleeper bunks, today's trucks offer a wide range of features for making your time on the road comfortable.

In-cab computers make it easier to communicate with your company and dispatch. Sophisticated GPS systems allow you to focus on driving, instead of looking at a map, and make navigating through unfamiliar places less challenging than in the past.

Truck Driving Makes You Miss Out on Family

Years ago, it wasn't uncommon for a long-distance truck driver to take off for a cross-country run and not have much communication with family members until returning home weeks later.

Modern technology makes it possible to be in touch with your family throughout the day. You don't have to miss out on your child's dance recital or soccer game thanks to video chat apps you can download onto your phone or tablet. You can then enjoy special events during rest stops.

While video chats or text messages aren't the same as being home, the advancement of modern technology makes it possible to be more involved in your family than ever before and still have the truck driving job you enjoy. You can also make family time a priority when you are home and plan special outings and events for when you're off the road for a few days.

Truck Driving is Hard on Your Health

People often have images of truckers being overweight and eating greasy food at truck stops until they eventually succumb to a massive heart attack. In the past, truck drivers had few choices for eating on the road other than diners or fast food places that offered few healthy menu items. Now it's easy to find fresh fruits, salads, and other healthy options while on the road.

As a truck driver, you have the option of taking control of your own health. Add some exercise into your day by taking a few laps around your truck when you stop to fuel up. Pack healthy snacks and meals to keep in your truck, and learn how to manage stress through relaxation exercises or mediation.

If you're excited to start a new and adventurous career as a truck driver, don't allow the negative feedback from well-meaning friends and family members stop you from pursuing your dream. Contact Commercial Trucking School for information on how to get started on your new career path as a truck driver.