5 Common Mistakes New Truck Drivers Make and How to Avoid Them
- BRIAN MEEKER
- Aug 17
- 2 min read
Starting a career in truck driving is exciting, but new drivers often face challenges that can affect safety, confidence, and efficiency. At Billy’s CDL School, we prepare students to avoid these pitfalls and develop safe, professional habits from day one.
1. Skipping Pre-Trip Inspections
A thorough pre-trip inspection is the cornerstone of safe driving. Skipping it can lead to vehicle breakdowns or safety hazards.
Tips to avoid this mistake:
Practice your pre-trip routine regularly until it becomes second nature after school.
Use our easy-to-remember, thorough checklist designed specifically for students to use throughout their careers.
Never hesitate to ask instructors for help if unsure about any step.
2. Poor Navigation Planning
Getting lost, delayed, or unprepared for road conditions is a common issue for new drivers.
Avoid these problems by:
Planning routes in advance
Asking other drivers for tips
Using CB radios for real-time updates
Keeping a paper atlas for backup
3. Overestimating Stamina
Long-haul driving requires endurance, but new drivers often underestimate how tiring it can be.
Key points:
Driving long hours safely is a skill that must be built over time
Start gradually and follow healthy habits for energy and focus
Use breaks for walking or stretching to prevent fatigue
4. Improper Cargo Handling
Cargo that is not loaded properly, over-correcting, or unsafe driving could cause the load to shift, potentially resulting in damage, accidents, or unsafe unloading.
Tips:
Always double-check load security
Communicate with other drivers and dispatch if unsure
Don’t be afraid to ask for help when handling unfamiliar cargo
5. Poor Communication
Communication is vital on the road. Missteps can lead to delays, confusion, or safety issues.
Best practices:
Use a CB radio to communicate with other drivers
Use a phone responsibly to contact dispatch, shippers, or receivers
Ask questions and clarify instructions whenever needed
At Billy’s CDL School, we focus on preventing these mistakes before students ever hit the road alone. By building good habits, new drivers gain confidence and set themselves up for a successful career.
