5 Smart Driving Habits for Truckers

1. Plan Your Route Before You Roll

Reduces stress, avoid low-clearance roads, weight restrictions, and tight urban areas.

- Use trucker GPS apps like Trucker Path or Garmin Dezl.

- Know where your fuel stops, rest areas, weigh stations, and delivery windows are.

2. Always Perform a Pre-Trip Inspection

Catches issues before they become breakdowns or DOT violations.

- Follow the DOT checklist: brakes, lights, tires, leaks, mirrors, coupling, etc.

- Document your inspections to protect your CDL and reputation.

3. Maintain Safe Following Distance

Trucks need 300-500 feet to stop fully at highway speeds.

- Use the 6-8 second rule (more in rain, snow, or heavy loads).

- Avoid tailgating even if cars cut you off. Safety > ego.

4. Drive Smoothly & Economically

Saves fuel, reduces wear on brakes, and keeps cargo secure.

- Avoid hard braking and sudden lane changes.

- Use cruise control and engine breaking when possible.

- Shift at low RPMs and idle less.

5. Stay Alert & Take Breaks Before You-re Tired

Fatigue causes more accidents than any weather or road condition.

- Follow your Hours of Service (HOS) limits.

- Take a 15-minute walk/stretch every few hours.

- Stay hydrated, eat light, and don’t rely on energy drinks alone.

Bonus Tips

5 Smart Driving Habits for Truckers

- Keep paperwork organized (logs, BOLs, permits).

- Respect weather alerts and detours.

- Be courteous-your driving is your business card.