Smith & Solomon Driver Training

Safety Tips for Truck Drivers

Without cooperation and caution from truck drivers, truck stops can be a very unsafe place. But when proper safety precautions are taken, drivers will enjoy less hassle, reduced losses, and fewer insurance claims. To learn more about safety tips for truck drivers, watch this video clip.

Truck drivers need to exercise caution when entering a truck stop. First, the entire truck stop should be scanned for stationary objects, pedestrians, and moving vehicles that could potentially cause an accident. As a common courtesy, engine speed should be kept to a minimum at truck stops, as many drivers will be trying to sleep. When reversing in a truck, don’t be afraid to get out and check to see if anything is in the path of truck. Watch the video clip for more safety tips.

If you are interested in earning your CDL from a company that offers top-notch driver training in Philadelphia, contact Smith & Solomon Driver Training. You can reach us at (888) 293-3764 for more information, or visit our website to take a closer look at our training programs for truck drivers and forklift operators.

Visit These Websites For More Information About Getting Your CDL And Driving A Truck

If you are interested in becoming a professional truck driver, getting your CDL is the first step towards starting your career. Visit these websites for more information about getting your CDL and driving a truck:

• Read this article from the Pennsylvania Department of Motor Vehicles for more information about truck driving safety.
   
• At HowStuffWorks.com, read all about how air brakes work.
   
• For some tips on how to pass your CDL Road Test, check out this article from TruckingTruth.com. 
   
• To learn more about the different types of commercial trucking jobs, read this article from LifeAsATrucker.com.
   
• At EveryTruckJob.com, read about the benefits of being a company driver.

For more information about getting your CDL and becoming a truck driver, call Smith & Solomon Driver Training at (888) 293-3764 or visit our website. Our staff is happy to tell you more about our CDL training programs in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. 

What You Need to Know to Get Your Commercial Driver's License

When you get your Commercial Driver’s License, or CDL, you will be qualified to operate commercial trucks and heavy machinery. A certified CDL training program is the best way to ensure that you have the knowledge you need to obtain your license and get started on your commercial driving career. Here are some of the things you need to know to obtain your CDL:

Driving Safety

In order to pass the Knowledge Test portion of the Pennsylvania Commercial Driver’s Exam, you will need to know safe driving techniques and how to transport cargo safely. Essential safe driving knowledge includes how to properly operate and maintain control of your vehicle, how to drive safely under a variety of road conditions, and what to do in case of an emergency. Cargo transport safety includes how to inspect and secure your cargo, and what to do if you are transporting special cargo.

Air Brakes

If you will be driving a truck or other vehicle with air brakes, you will need to properly use this type of braking system. Air brakes use compressed air to safely stop and secure large, heavy vehicles. They must be properly operated and maintained in order to function properly. You must demonstrate that you know how to operate air brakes, and also show that you understand the various parts that make up the air brake system.

Pre-Trip Inspection

Every commercial trucking trip will begin with a pre-trip inspection, where the driver checks each system to ensure that the vehicle is safe to drive. You will need to show that you can perform a thorough pre-trip inspection for the type of vehicle you will be operating. You should be able to demonstrate that you can check the safety equipment, brakes, tires, and electrical system.

To prepare for your Pennsylvania Commercial Driver’s License exam, sign up for a CDL Training Program at Smith & Solomon Driver Training. Call our Philadelphia offices at (888) 293-3764 to learn more about how our program will prepare you for the CDL test. 

Tips For New Truck Drivers

When you begin your commercial driving career, you will be setting out in an exciting field that offers freedom, flexibility, and a variety of new experiences. If you are a new truck driver, getting your Commercial Driver’s License is just the beginning of your journey as a truck driver. Here are some essential tips for new truck drivers:

Understand Your Options

In the trucking profession, there a variety of different types of jobs available. If you don’t mind being away from home for long stretches at a time, you would probably be suited for long distance jobs that require many days out on the road. If you prefer, you can research jobs that will be shorter distances and will allow you to be home more frequently. The more research you do about the different jobs that are available, the more satisfaction you will with your position.

Keep an Open Mind

When you are a truck driver, you will encounter new situations and different people almost every day. It is important to remember to always keep a level head, and remember that variety is a huge part of the trucking business. If you find yourself missing home, you can find company by talking to other drivers while you’re taking a break from the road. And remember, for every stressful situation you encounter, there will be a new, exciting adventure right down the road. 

Research Companies

When you are looking for your first trucking job, be sure research many companies to find the best fit for you. If you would like to specialize in a certain type of cargo or would prefer to be headquartered in a certain part of the country, find a company that can offer what you are looking for. Working for the right company will provide you with a long and satisfying career.

The best way to get started as a new truck driver is to enroll in a CDL Training Program. Call Smith & Solomon Driver Training of Philadelphia at (888) 293-3764 for more information about how we can help you get started on your trucking career. 

How Often Do Truck Drivers Need to Make Logbook Entries?

All truck drivers should record their service hours, but this record does not necessarily need to be in a logbook. If you are working on long hauls of over 100 miles or more, you will record your services hours in a logbook.  For those truck drivers who work locally on short hauls, the company can keep a timesheet instead of requiring a logbook. For more information about logbook entries, watch this video from Road Master.

To learn everything you need to know to become a licensed truck driver, sign up for a CDL Training Program at Smith & Solomon Driver Training. Call our Philadelphia office at (888) 293-3764 to learn more about our driver training programs.