Have you been eyeing a career change as of late? Are you looking for a way to get out of the office environment and feel as though each day is unique and fresh? Do you love being out on the road and in control of your own future? If so, then you desire a lot of the traits that truck drivers possess, especially those long-haul drivers who drive from state to state, right across the country.
Now, before you jump right in and go full tilt in pursuing a career as a truck driver, there are some things you may want to know. These can help you to be a bit more prepared for what’s to come and ensure it’s truly the best career for you.
Do a Little Research on Your Potential Salary
Before you make the decision to start a new career, you may want to look into salary potential. You need to know if trucking would offer the kind of compensation that would allow you to afford your current lifestyle. Now, keep in mind that the more experience you have, the more you are likely to make. In other words, it will take a few years to reach peak salary potential.
Make Sure You Have the Proper Licensing and Training
You will also need to be sure that you have a valid state regular driver’s license. From there, you can begin your education and training. There are many accredited community college programs across the country that offers truck driving lessons, and there are even private trucking schools. Typically, your schooling can be completed within a year. You will then need to get your specific licenses, certifications, and registrations for the type of truck you plan on driving.
Accidents Can Happen
Obviously, you don’t want to think about anything bad happening while you’re out on the road, but unfortunately, accidents can happen. And, it’s not just minor accidents but serious ones that can lead to major injuries and even fatalities. In 2017, the amount of trucking fatalities hit a 29 year high, with the largest increase of fatalities happening in large trucks (those weighing 10,000 to 14,000 pounds, including the dual rear-wheel pickup trucks).
So, not only do you need to be an alert driver on the road and ensure you’re following the rules at all time, but you also need to know what to do should you find yourself in an accident. Contacting a Truck accident lawyer, such as those at Zehl & Associates, should be one of the first steps you take. You want to be sure that you speak to a lawyer while all the details are fresh in your mind. There has been billions of dollars won in terms of truck accident victims and their families in Texas alone.
Are You Mentally Prepared?
The final thing to ask yourself is if you are ready mentally for this type of job. Trucking can mean very long hours, days or even weeks away from home, and plenty of alone time. It takes a certain personality to excel in it.
If you still think you’d like the trucking life after thinking of each of these considerations, you’ll be able to decide if trucking is right for you.
