September 27, 2004
Howdy Drivers!

Has another month already gone by?

This month my article is going to be more difficult to write and convey, but what I have to say is something that is much more a personnel philosophy and belief than a road tip. I wanted to share my thoughts though because over the years, my approach is something that I've found most satisfying and rewarding.

I’ve often found that drivers tend to stay within their own area of experience and expertise. An example of this are those drivers who pull a dry van or a reefer but who never get to know drivers that pull other types of freight. I've discovered that sometimes this is a mistake or a missed opportunity.

Don't let yourself become a loner. If you see a driver struggling with adjusting their trailer tandems, why not step forward and offer to give them a hand? They may decline your help and if so, that’s fine, but in all the years of driving, I've only had one driver say, “No thanks”. Plus if they accept, you may learn something new and you will feel good about helping another driver. You might just make yourself a friendship that can last a lifetime.

The same goes true with helping out a “flat-bedder”. If you’re not in a rush, why not take some time to stop and help them fold their tarps? It may take them 45-60 minutes by themselves, but if someone helps, it may only take them maybe 15-20 minutes to get those tarps folded. Even better, those tarps will be easier to fit into storage areas. But, here’s the plus side of trucking. Chances are when you help out other drivers, you've made yourself a friend. You will feel better about yourself too.

If you see a driver broke down along side the highway, be extra cautious and use your CB Radio, asking if they're OK. Ask if they have help coming. Even though most truckers now have cell phones or their rigs are equipped with satellite dispatching, at least they will know someone cares. If by chance there is something you can do to help, use caution and lend your assistance. If it’s at night and you don't feel safe, try calling the state police and let them check on the driver.

And again drivers feel free to send us your ideas and thoughts.

Until next time keep the shinny side up and be safe.


Fred is an OTR driver who has 24 years experience hauling a multitude of freight including dry van and refer. He has trucked in all 48 States as well as every province in Canada. Trucking as both a company driver and an owner operator, Fred brings to the GTA the kind of success story many drivers would like to experience including the last 15 years trucking with his own rig.
If you have a question for Fred just forward it to him through the contact page on the website.

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