Are you considering becoming a truck driver? Or are you curious about the life of a truck driver? Well, then you might be wondering what life as a truck driver on the road is like. The trucking industry is a vital part of our modern society, but many people have no idea what a truck driver’s day looks like. Do you want to learn more about the love for the open road? Let’s take a look at a day in the life of a truck driver.
Early Mornings
Following a truck driver’s schedule begins early in the morning. Most drivers like to get an early start and try and be on the road anywhere between 3 am, and 5 am; however, the exact time will depend on the requirements of the specific job.
Before getting on the road, drivers need to check the weather conditions along their route and check for any possible construction. They will also do an inspection of their truck and complete any logs before they officially hit the road.
Once a truck driver hits the road, they are usually on a tight schedule. It is important to be aware of potential delays that can affect when their load is delivered. Federal Regulations only allow drivers to be on the road for 11 hours a day which can cause a lot of pressure to make sure their load is delivered on time.
Long Days on the Road
Drivers work long days that vary – they are allowed to drive 11 hours in a day within a 14-hour window. So depending on the driver, they work around 11-14 hours depending on how many breaks are taken throughout the day. The more breaks a driver takes throughout the day, the less they get paid since many drivers are only paid while they are driving.
A driver tends to take breaks to stretch their legs and for various meals. This helps them stay rested and stay alert while on the road. It is important for drivers to take the breaks they need in order to have continued alertness while driving.
Evenings
Once the end of their 11 hour drive times begins to approach, a driver needs to have 10 consecutive hours off duty every day. Find a truck stop on your route that you like and continue on that route. Sometimes you may even have the opportunity to spend the evening at home if your route happens to be nearby!
Once you find a good place to spend your off duty hours, you will be able to rest in the sleeper of the truck which is located in the back of the cab. The evening is typically when a truck driver will get some food, shower, call home, and get some rest. In the morning, the cycle starts over again.
Closing
A day in the life of a truck driver can be challenging. Drivers work long days and spend more time away from home than at home. A drivers workday consists of tight schedules and deadlines and they spend most of their days alone. Although the day in a life of a truck driver can be challenging – there are many benefits in this profession as well.
Here at Fremont Contract Carriers, we work to make our drivers feel like they are part of our family. Consider driving for FCC today!