Some answers were serious. Some were humorous. But together, the responses painted a realistic picture of what experienced drivers believe matters most once the wheels start turning.

Patience And Defensive Driving Came Up Constantly

One of the most common themes involved patience. Many experienced drivers warned new truckers not to rush, force situations, or drive beyond their comfort zone just to satisfy appointments or traffic pressure.

“Don’t be in a hurry,” said Bruce Early.

“If you’re late, you’re late. You will never drive fast enough to beat an appointment. So drive safe always,” added Clifton G Force Jones.

Several drivers also stressed the importance of slowing down in mountains, traffic, parking lots, and backing situations.

“Mountains 1 time fast/ lifetime slow,” wrote Betty Thomas.

“When reversing slower is faster,” said James McSorley.

Other drivers focused heavily on defensive driving and constantly watched the surrounding traffic.

“Always expect the unexpected,” said Frank Wilson.

“Watch the brake lights of the 15 cars ahead,” advised Tommy Moulton.

“Always look 15-20 seconds ahead of you, the best you can. We can’t stop on a dime,” wrote Stephen Sanchez.

“Always drive defensively, assume nothing,” added Greg Ambrose.

Several responses also reminded new drivers to stay out of the left lane unnecessarily and avoid tailgating.

“Stay out of the left lane!!!!” wrote Mike Laughlin.

“Slow down and don’t tailgate!” added Albert M. Lutton.

Backing, Parking, And Trailer Awareness Still Matter

Another major topic involved backing and trailer control. Experienced drivers repeatedly emphasized taking extra time while parking and never being afraid to stop and check their surroundings.

“GOAL: Get out and look!” wrote Terri Curry Story.

“When in doubt..G.O.A.L,” added Mike Parnell.

“Just get out and look,” wrote Andrew Claytor.

Drivers also reminded rookies that trailers require constant attention during turns, lane changes, and parking maneuvers.

“If you ain’t watching your trailer, you ain’t driving your truck,” said Curtis Newborn.

“You’re not driving a truck, you are steering a Trailer,” added Doug Pillow Jr.

“The trailer follows the tractor at the shortest distance…ALWAYS,” wrote Bradly Pennington Vaughan.

Several drivers also stressed checking equipment carefully before moving.

“Tug test every time!” said Marvin Roberts.

“Always check your fifth wheel,” added Matt Hillis.

“Always conduct a pretrip,” wrote Todd Liebman.

Experienced Drivers Also Warned Against Overconfidence

Many responses centered around mindset. Drivers warned rookies not to act invincibly, drive distracted, or assume experience comes quickly.

“Don’t be a super trucker,” wrote Jeff Trecy.

“It’s not a video game,” added Billie Terry.

“Overconfidence gets you in trouble,” wrote Terry Kostiuk.

Several drivers specifically mentioned staying off the phone while driving.

“Phone down, pay attention!” said John Shafer.

“Never use or answer your phone while driving,” added Darius Hill.

Others reminded new drivers to keep learning and ask questions instead of pretending to know everything immediately.

“Listen to us, older truckers. Ask questions. We have a wealth of knowledge that can’t be taught in a classroom,” wrote Chuck Riggs.

“Every day is a new lesson,” added Heather MacDonald.

Some responses were lighter but still reflected real-life experience behind the wheel.

“Don’t eat gas station burritos,” joked Alex Pérez.

“Buy tools and a flashlight,” advised James Phillips.

“Learn to read a map!” added Danette Manning.

While every driver develops their own habits over time, many of the responses shared by the TDUSA community pointed back to the same idea: patience, awareness, preparation, and consistency matter far more than trying to prove something on the road.

For many experienced truckers, staying safe and building a long career usually comes down to avoiding unnecessary risks, paying attention, and never getting too comfortable behind the wheel.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: May 15, 2026

The post Experienced Truck Drivers Share Their Best Advice for New Drivers on the Road appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Key Highways Where Truck Drivers Face the Toughest Challenges

The I-285 beltway envelops Atlanta and is infamous for snarls, particularly around the junctions with I-20 and I-675. Picture merging into lanes clogged with a mix of daily commuters and heavy freight trucks—quick decisions and careful spacing become necessary. Drivers on this stretch frequently report encountering sudden slowdowns that sometimes lead to collisions if caution lapses.

Downtown’s very own lifeline for traffic, the I-75/I-85 Downtown Connector, demands utmost focus. Trucks face constant lane drops and tight exit intervals, especially when rush hour fills the asphalt with bumper-to-bumper traffic. Navigating this section requires staying alert for impatient drivers and unexpected stops.

On Interstate 20, frequent construction zones and narrowed lanes add to the stress, notably near entertainment hubs like Six Flags and further east towards Conyers. Even State Route 400, though less of a highway, presents its own hazards in northern suburbs where space is at a premium and commuters don’t always yield easily to larger vehicles.

Patterns in Traffic Flow Drivers Need to Know

Traffic congestion in Atlanta rarely follows a neat schedule anymore. Recent shifts have stretched peak congestion far beyond the traditional morning and evening rushes. Surprisingly, Thursdays now witness heavier traffic jams than Fridays, compressing the week’s busiest driving periods. Midday traffic snarls have also grown, prolonging times drivers spend inching forward on congested routes.

In addition to stop-and-go patterns, speed limits seem to fluctuate unexpectedly throughout the city’s roadways, demanding that drivers stay precisely attentive to changing signs. Aggressive driving behaviors from other motorists further increase the pressure, making defensive driving more critical than ever.

Strategies for Safer and More Efficient Truck Driving in Atlanta

Savvy drivers understand that timing is everything in this city. By scheduling trips outside of peak congestion, they avoid most of the frustrating delays. Employing GPS devices or apps specifically designed for commercial vehicles empowers drivers by providing real-time updates on road restrictions and active construction.

Maintaining increased space in heavy traffic smooths reactions to sudden stops or merges. Coming prepared for abrupt lane drops, especially on the Perimeter and Downtown Connector, helps reduce collision risks.

Communication plays a role, too. Drivers who update dispatch about possible delays keep expectations clear and avoid last-minute surprises for everyone involved. Keeping an eye on traffic alerts also enables on-the-fly reroutes, shaving off precious time and reducing stress.

Atlanta’s traffic maze undoubtedly tests truck drivers’ skills and patience. However, understanding when and where congestion strikes, paired with smart driving tactics, can transform a daunting drive into a manageable one. With foresight and focus, drivers can keep themselves safe and deliveries on track in this bustling city.

The post Understanding Atlanta’s Traffic Patterns and How Truck Drivers Can Navigate Them appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

James “JD” Chasteen, Shaw Industries Group; Scott “Scottie” Edwards, Primo Brands Corp.; Kenny White, AutoZone; and Donald “Todd” Young, Marathon Petroleum Co., were recognized for their contributions to the profession, earning the admiration of peers, supervisors, and customers alike. Here’s a closer look at each of these outstanding professionals.

James “JD” Chasteen – 54 Years of Safe Driving

“Being accepted in the Driver Hall of Fame is a huge honor,” says JD. “I strive to exceed expectations and always aim to leave a lasting impression of kindness and professionalism.”

A driver since 1969, Chasteen has amassed an extraordinary 5.8 million miles without accidents, with three million of those miles driven during his 29 years at Shaw Industries Group. His exceptional career includes a commitment to the daily practice of the Smith System of defensive driving and recognition as the National Safety Council’s Best Safe Driver of the Year in 2022.

Outside of work, JD enjoys walking his dog, exploring metal detecting as a hobby, and spending time with his family and church community.

Scott “Scottie” Edwards – Dedicated to Safety and Community

“I strive to maintain a positive attitude and help others. Representing my company and profession with the highest standards is a personal point of pride,” Scottie explains.

Over his 32-year career, primarily spent with Primo Brands Corp., Edwards has driven 3.1 million accident-free miles. Devoted to safety, he keeps his truck immaculate and works tirelessly to mentor peers on fostering a safe work environment.

An active member of his community, Edwards is a volunteer fireman and participates in Wreaths Across America, delivering wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery. When he’s not on the road, he focuses on fitness, family hikes, and quality time with his dog.

Kenny White – Six Decades of Safe Driving Excellence

“I strive to be safe every day because I want to come back to my family and do not want to hurt anyone. I thank God for watching over me each day and keeping me safe,”  says Kenny. With 61 years of driving and 3.5 million miles without accidents or injuries, Kenny’s dedication to safety and preparation is unmatched. His commitment began with his father teaching him to drive and was honed during his military service, where he transported heavy equipment.

Kenny is a family man with two children, seven grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. He’s also a car enthusiast, active in his church, and president of a local retiree group at his favorite donut shop.

Donald “Todd” Young – Marathon’s Trusted Driver

“Sleep and proper rest have been crucial to my safety,” shares Todd. “I’m always focused on leaving a positive impression for myself and my company.”

For 44 years—with 38 of those at Marathon Petroleum Co.—Todd has achieved over 3 million accident-free miles, bolstered by extensive training in defensive driving and workplace safety. A certified Smith Driving System trainer, he leads by example.

Todd’s dedication to others extends beyond the road as he volunteers with the American Red Cross and participates in disaster relief efforts in his community. He enjoys camping, hunting, and spending time with his family on his days off.

Celebrating Excellence in Trucking

Congratulations to JD, Scottie, Kenny, and Todd for their well-deserved induction into the 2025 NPTC Driver Hall of Fame. These drivers exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and dedication, reminding us all of the critical role truck drivers play in keeping communities connected and businesses thriving.

Source: FleetOwner
Image: (Left to Right ) James JD Chasteen, Donald “Todd” Young,  Scott Edwards, & Donald “Todd” Young

The post Meet the 2025 NPTC Driver Hall of Fame Inductees appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A collaborative effort between the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) and the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission (OTIC) is in place to address the frequent causes behind both passenger and commercial vehicle collisions.

“The motoring public can expect to see troopers conducting high-visibility patrols on the turnpike through the rest of 2025, focusing on distracted driving, speed enforcement and safety belt usage,” said Lt. Erica Gockstetter. “But we cannot just enforce our way to a safer Ohio Turnpike. To truly create the safest driving environment, we need a commitment from motorists to drive in ways that are responsible and safe.”

Lt. Gockstetter highlighted the importance of safe driving practices for all types of motorists, especially in how passenger vehicles share the road with commercial trucks.

“We want to remind the motoring public to use caution around commercial vehicles. Avoid the no-zone by staying out of the blind areas in the front, back and sides of these vehicles. Do not cut in front of a commercial vehicle, as they require more stopping distance than a passenger vehicle,” she advised. “We equally ask commercial drivers to drive alert, follow the hours-of-service regulations, and be attentive to blind spots when changing lanes. Additionally, driving appropriately for road or weather conditions is crucial.”

Alarming Turnpike Safety Statistics Drive Action

The safety campaign comes on the heels of sobering data from the Ohio Turnpike. Between 2020 and 2024, there were 3,810 crashes caused by speeding, resulting in 18 fatalities and 1,514 injuries. Additionally, 326 accidents involved distractions, resulting in one death and 141 injuries, while 29 fatalities were recorded where safety belts were available but not used.

To address these troubling numbers, OSHP and OTIC are urging drivers to reflect on their habits behind the wheel.

Chris Matta, chief engineer and deputy executive director of the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission, called for a collective effort to change dangerous driving behaviors.

Chris Matta, chief engineer and deputy executive director of the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission, urged drivers of both passenger vehicles and commercial trucks to recognize and address unsafe driving habits, such as aggressive or distracted driving. Taking these steps is crucial to reducing accidents and preventing injuries and fatalities on the Ohio Turnpike and beyond.

Source: Overdrive

The post Ohio Law Enforcement Focuses on Safer Driving on the Turnpike appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Slow Down and Drive to Conditions

Many drivers emphasized the importance of reducing speed when faced with poor weather conditions. As several community members pointed out, driving too fast is one of the biggest mistakes you can make in a storm.

• Darin Olson suggests, “No sudden jerks on the wheel, no sudden movements. Keep your movements slow and steady.”
• Ashley Oliva shares, “Reduce speed, don’t rely on Jakes, and let the super truckers pass you all they want. You can only go too fast in bad weather once.”
• Sergio Diez advises, “Triple or quadruple your following distance. And finally, SLOW DOWN.”

Patience is Key

While some drivers suggested pulling over and waiting for the weather to pass, others highlighted the value of patience on the road. Taking your time reduces the risk of accidents and allows you to stay alert.

• Gail Solimine recommends, “Take your time and don’t tailgate the car in front of you.”
• Shane Hays shares a cautionary note: “You can do everything right in bad weather, but all it takes is one person who thinks they are God’s gift to drivers.”
• Rosemarie Beckett offers a great tip: “Forget you’ve got a brake pedal, use the gearbox for slowing you down gently without losing traction.”

Know When to Park It

One of the most frequent pieces of advice given by drivers was simply to park the truck and wait out the storm if conditions are unsafe.

• Vivian Wheeler and Craig Noftall both suggest, “Park it.” Sometimes, the best option is to wait for the weather to improve rather than push through dangerous conditions.
• Jeff Stubenrauch reinforces this, stating, “Don’t drive in harsh weather, problem solved!”

Maintain Your Equipment

Good equipment can make a huge difference in your safety during harsh weather. Several drivers emphasized the importance of keeping your truck in top condition, particularly when it comes to visibility and braking.

• Tom J Murphy suggests, “The best wiper blades you can find and replace them as needed!”
• Matt Wilson shares a great tip for snowy conditions: “Spray silicone on your wipers but take them off to do this—DON’T spray the rubber or the windshield.”
• Kevin Gothard reminds us to always “keep your fifth wheel greased” and to “listen to what your truck is telling you.”

Keep a Safe Following Distance

Maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles is crucial, especially in slippery conditions. Drivers echoed this sentiment across multiple responses.

• Marcus Brown advises, “Slow down, stay alert, and have good tires.”
• Kyle Yadon adds, “People will slow down in poor conditions, but then they continue to tailgate. It doesn’t matter how slow you go, if you’re too close, you’ll hit it.”

Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, many drivers stressed the importance of listening to your gut and knowing when to call it a day. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, it’s okay to stop.

• Jeff Kratzer offers the straightforward advice: “Know your limits and don’t drive if the weather exceeds them.”
• Wayne William Campbell reflects on his time driving, saying, “Look after your body, your rig, your customers, and your boss. If you don’t feel safe, don’t do it.”

Drive Defensively

Defensive driving is essential, especially when other drivers may be taking unnecessary risks. Many drivers emphasized the importance of staying alert and expecting the unexpected.

• Matt Hughes puts it simply: “If you don’t feel safe, park it. No load is worth your life or the lives of others.”
• Jemariaus Ford offers a reminder to “reduce your speed and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.”
• Tamara Leigh advises, “Drive to your ability. Don’t oversteer, and remember that just because there’s a speed limit, doesn’t mean you need to be at it or exceed it.”

Prepare for the Worst

Lastly, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for any situation. Some drivers suggest keeping emergency supplies on hand and staying informed about weather conditions.

• Kim Heisey Ackerman advises, “Keep chains on your truck, extra food and water, a shovel, and make sure your tanks are full. No load is worth dying for.”
• Loren Wade Golliher suggests, “Have a set of chains on hand and a good tow rope.”

Driving in harsh weather is never easy, but with the right preparation and mindset, it is possible to navigate even the toughest conditions. From slowing down and increasing your following distance to knowing when to park and wait it out, safety should always be your top priority. Listen to the truck, trust your instincts, and remember that no load is worth putting yourself or others in harm’s way.

The post Driving Safely in Harsh Weather: Insights from Truck Drivers Across the USA appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

1. Maintain Situational Awareness: One of the fundamental principles of defensive driving is maintaining situational awareness at all times. Keep your eyes moving, scan your surroundings regularly, and anticipate potential hazards on the road. Stay alert to changes in traffic patterns, weather conditions, and road signs to react promptly to any unexpected situations.
2. Keep a Safe Following Distance: Maintaining a safe following distance is crucial for preventing rear-end collisions, especially when driving a large commercial vehicle. The recommended following distance is at least one car length for every 10 miles per hour of speed. Increase this distance in adverse weather conditions or when following another truck to allow for ample stopping distance.
3. Practice Predictive Driving: Predictive driving involves anticipating the actions of other road users and adjusting your driving accordingly. Pay attention to the behavior of other vehicles, especially at intersections and highway merges. Look for signs of inattentive or aggressive driving and be prepared to react defensively to avoid potential collisions.
4. Use Mirrors and Blind Spot Awareness: Proper mirror usage and blind spot awareness are essential for avoiding accidents, especially when changing lanes or making turns. Adjust your mirrors to minimize blind spots and use them frequently to monitor traffic around your truck. Be vigilant when merging or passing, and always signal your intentions well in advance to communicate with other drivers.
5. Manage Speed and Control: Maintaining a safe and consistent speed is critical for controlling your truck and reacting to hazards effectively. Avoid speeding and always obey posted speed limits, especially in construction zones or areas with heavy traffic. Use engine braking and downshifting to control your speed on downhill slopes, and avoid sudden lane changes or maneuvers that could destabilize your vehicle.
6. Prepare for Emergency Situations: Even with the best defensive driving practices, emergencies can still occur on the road. Prepare for unexpected events by maintaining proper vehicle maintenance, carrying essential emergency supplies, and familiarizing yourself with emergency procedures. Stay calm, assess the situation quickly, and take decisive action to mitigate risks and ensure your safety.

Mastering defensive driving techniques is essential for every truck driver to navigate the roads safely and responsibly. By maintaining situational awareness, practicing predictive driving, and adhering to safe driving practices, you can minimize risks and protect yourself and others from potential accidents. Stay vigilant, stay prepared, and always prioritize safety on the road. Safe travels!

The post Mastering Defensive Driving: Six Essential Techniques for Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.