The Aggression Myth: Pickup Truck Drivers vs. Angry 4 Wheelers

If truck drivers have been on the road for a while, they are probably the least aggressive drivers on the road compared to 4-wheelers. There would be multitudes of accidents if every day, pickup drivers cut off truck drivers as they often do.

4 Wheelers as the True Aggressors

4-wheelers lack basic knowledge of semi truck maneuvering, do not have patience, have no empathy, and consider their schedules to be more important than others. They do not treat others kindly either, which makes them the true aggressors on the road. As a result, truck drivers must learn to adapt to the situation. Unfortunately, they won't change their behavior, and the frustrated 4-wheelers along with the stresses of the job will significantly impact their lives.

Challenges Faced by Truck Drivers

Do you have a clock ticking from the moment you start your day, with breaks being forced when you are at the midpoint of your journey? Look at how the Hours of Service (HOS) rules are enforced on drivers. Most freight is classified as just-in-time to conserve space in storage warehouses. While drivers have appointments at both ends, warehouses often do not honor them. A driver who has worked hard to arrive at a warehouse at the appointed time might find themselves made to wait for hours, only to be asked to leave for their next load or have to search for parking. If it's late in the day, finding a parking spot can be nearly impossible, and they may be forced to park in a less ideal location, or even not park at all. Finding a safe place to park can take time, and they are already tired and stressed from how they are treated.

Watch how most drivers treat trucks: they will cut in front and slam their brakes when they are in a hurry. It may take at least a football field's distance for that truck to come to a safe stop. You just squeezed to get by, hit your brakes just a little early, and avoided becoming a pancake. But this maneuver can lead to hours of paperwork and bureaucracy for that driver. They have families they want to see, and yet they are treated not very well by motorists and shippers. Give them a break, because you know, virtually everything you use has been hauled by them.

Conclusion

The stress and aggression of being a truck driver is often misunderstood. Instead of viewing truck drivers as aggressive, we should acknowledge the challenges they face daily. They have families to think about, and their work is crucial to the smooth functioning of society. Let's give them the space, respect, and understanding they deserve.