5 unwritten rules of the road every trucker should know

Post Date - Apr 14, 2022

There are the rules everyone knows about, such as the ones you’re required to follow by law, and then there are the rules you learn along the way. From driver etiquette to taking extra measures for safety, there are several unwritten truck driving rules that drivers are expected to follow. These are five of the most important unspoken truck driving rules you should know whether you’re a newbie driver or a trucking veteran.

1. Never talk about your load.

You never know who could be listening in on your conversation or who might have ulterior motives for asking about what you’re hauling. According to the FBI, cargo theft costs shippers and trucking companies at least $30 billion every year. About 61 percent of cargo theft loss occurs at a truck stop or official rest stop. There are a lot of things you can do to minimize your risk, including identifying high-risk areas, locking your truck, and being aware of your surroundings. However, an important defense tactic is simply not telling anyone what you’re driving around.

2. Plan ahead for parking.

Parking can fill up fast, so it’s important to think ahead. You don’t want to find yourself pushing too much beyond your hours-of-service limits to find a parking space or end up parking somewhere unsafe. Instead of waiting until the last minute, plan ahead. Use truck parking apps to reserve spots ahead of time. If you’re unfamiliar with your route, check with other drivers who might know of the best parking options.

3. Don’t linger at the pump

When you’re done fueling up your truck, the courteous thing to do is to move your truck so someone else can take your spot. The more time you spend at the pump, the longer the waiting line will get, and we all know that time equals money in this industry. If you have other things to do such as checking your GPS or running into the truck stop to go to the bathroom or grab a snack, we recommend you move your truck away from the pump to a parking spot.

4. Leave enough room when passing other trucks

Probably one of the most aggravating things as a trucker is when a car driver cuts us off. It’s inconsiderate and downright dangerous, so don’t be the one to do it to another trucker. Keep at least 200 feet or more of space in between the back of your trailer and the nose of their cab before passing. Having less space than that can limit what the other driver can see up ahead besides your truck.

5. We look out for each other.

No one understands the trucking life better than another truck driver. As a community of truck drivers, it’s important that we look out for one another and help when we can. Whether it’s warning of bad weather or traffic ahead, offering advice you’ve learned throughout your career, or helping when you see a need, a little bit of friendliness and assistance can go a long way.

What other unwritten trucking rules can you think of? Share them on social media and don’t forget to tag us! Don’t forget to check out our company driving opportunities at drive4pti.com.