New Truckers Intimidated by Size of Truck

By James Davis

For many new truck drivers, the size of the truck they are about to drive can be very intimidating. The sight of a massive 18-wheeler can be overwhelming for those who are not used to handling such a large vehicle. In fact, many truckers report feeling nervous or anxious before their first few days on the job. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why many truckers are intimidated by the size of their vehicle before they receive training, and what can be done to help new drivers overcome this fear.

The first reason that new truckers are intimidated by the size of their vehicle is that it can be difficult to judge distance and space. Trucks have a much larger turning radius than most other vehicles, and they require a greater distance to come to a stop. New drivers often feel overwhelmed by the sheer size of their truck, and may find it difficult to navigate in tight spaces or make tight turns. This can be compounded by the fact that many trucking routes require drivers to navigate through busy city streets and crowded highways.

Another reason that new truckers are intimidated by the size of their vehicle is that they are not used to the mechanics of driving such a large vehicle. Unlike a car or a smaller truck, a tractor-trailer requires a great deal of skill and knowledge to operate safely. Drivers must learn how to shift gears, manage the weight of their cargo, and keep track of their speed and position on the road. For many new drivers, this can feel overwhelming and intimidating.

So, what can be done to help new truckers overcome their fear of driving a large vehicle? One of the most important things is to provide comprehensive training and support. This should include both classroom instruction and on-the-road training, so that drivers can learn the fundamentals of truck driving and get a feel for how the vehicle handles in different situations. It may also be helpful to provide new drivers with a mentor or coach, who can provide guidance and support as they navigate their first few weeks on the job.

In addition, trucking companies can invest in newer and more modern trucks that are equipped with advanced safety features. This can help to alleviate some of the anxiety that drivers feel about driving such a large vehicle. Features like backup cameras, lane departure warnings, and collision detection can give drivers added confidence and make them feel more secure on the road.

In conclusion, it is not uncommon for new truckers to feel intimidated by the size of their vehicle before they receive training. However, with the right support and guidance, drivers can quickly gain the skills and confidence they need to operate their truck safely and effectively. By investing in comprehensive training and modern safety features, trucking companies can help their drivers feel more secure on the road, and ensure that they are able to deliver their cargo safely and on time.