Today we road tested our students that we had over the past week. This was also the day that we had to road test all the new drivers that came through this weeks orientation. There were 12 in all and there were 3 testers, so we shared the responsibility.
First, our day began in the classroom going over much needed information that would get our students ready for life out on the road, since they would be getting their trucks the next day. We spoke about what to expect when they are out there. Things like how their dispatches would work and how to communicate with their fleet managers. We told them to sign on to their QualComm computers in the trucks. Then their fleet manager would see that they had arrived.
Then they would receive a message from their fleet managers regarding any new loads that are available in the area they are in. If they can do the load legally, then they are on their way into the life of trucking.
Once our morning was over with our students, us trainers had to put ourselves in high gear to get ready to road test those that just came through orientation. These drivers went through a 3-day classroom that covered all aspects of the company. From payroll to 401k; from starting your truck to how to drive it and logging your trips legally. Things like that.
We have a set route that we take our drivers through a rigourus driving route. We show how to start the truck, put it in gear and get it moving. Since all our trucks are automatics, some of the drivers are intimidated by them. They really are very easy to drive. Just like driving your automatic car. The only difference is, is that you have either a 53 foot trailer behind you or two 28 1/2 foot trailers you are pulling.
Once they get going, we go out on the city streets, test them on right and left turns, freeway merges, crossing railroad tracks and lane changes. The whole test takes about 5 minutes, but we really put them through the paces. By the end, the new driver feels much better about driving a truck that they are unfamiliar with.
One of the things that I say to put my drivers at ease is, "you have to learn the personality of each truck you are driving. Much like when you go to buy a car. Do you buy the first one you test drive? No. You test drive several, and in doing so, you have to learn just how each vehicle starts, operates and handles."
These trucks are the same way. We have Freightliner Century Class, Freightliner Columbias, and Volvos. I really like the Freightliners. The Volvos are nice and have all the creature comforts of a mini motor home inside with a dining table that folds down to a double bed. A top bunk with a ladder to it. Tons of storage space and all the controls right within the drivers reach. The ride, must I not forget, is like riding on a pillow. Nice and smooth. The auto shift transmission shifts each gear like a Cadillac.
So, why don't I like the Volvos? Well, although it has the comforts, it isn't a work truck for me. They are bulky, wide, large and don't have near the turning radius that a Freightliner has. When I tried to back up a trailer with a Volvo in a tight space, I couldn't do it without much work. Back and forth, manuevering the steering wheel and burning my clutch leg with pain. It was really an easy back, but the Volvo just wasn't doing it for me.
I did the same back in a Freightliner and put the trailer in the spot with one shot. Now, that's a work truck. One that I can depend on doing the whole job for me from the time I turn the key on to the time I'm ready to go to sleep at night.
Well, we got the drivers all tested and headed out to get their trucks. Some are flying out the next day to get theirs, so we put them up in a motel in Seattle for the night and a shuttle will take them to the airport.
The trucking industry is growing and has been for the past 40 years. Things have changed including how we keep track of our driving and off duty times. Some weekend, I will include a log along with all the other things I have promised to show everyone.
Take care and have a safe day.
Remember, road rage can happen as simple as not letting someone on the freeway from the on-ramp. Relax, give the other person some room because you will still get there on time and safely. Share the road, and share it safely and with courtesy.
No comments:
Post a Comment