Category: Blog

The electronic logging device (ELD) mandate intends to bring the trucking industry into the digital era by replacing paper logbooks. ELDs help drivers more easily track and record information about driving time. Although ELDs are supposed to simplify recordkeeping for truckers, there are still a few persistent myths about them.

Myth: ELD data is automatically transmitted to enforcement agencies.

Some truckers worry that violations of hours of service will be automatically logged and transmitted to enforcement agencies. Some might also worry that the ELD will commit errors when recording violations of hours of service. Actually, no data is automatically transmitted anywhere. There are only a few reasons for third-party access to the data, including roadside inspections, traffic infractions, and FMCSA compliance audits. When roadside inspectors do access the data, the inspections take much less time than they used to. The same is true of DOT audits.

Myth: ELDs are disadvantageous for owner/operators.

One of the most enduring myths about ELDs is that they will put owner/operators out of business. Owner/operators voiced these concerns due to the perceived potential loss of working hours and the cost of the ELDs themselves. Actually, most drivers who make the switch from paper logbooks to ELDs regret that they didn’t do it sooner. ELDs are far less pricey than they used to be. In fact, the cost is relatively negligible for owner/operators, compared to the costs of fuel, permits, and liability insurance. Plus, paper logbooks require drivers to round to the nearest 15 minutes. But with ELDs, drivers only round to the nearest minute. In other words, using an ELD can help owner/operators get more driving time in and earn more money.

The modern, comprehensive curriculum at Yuma Truck Driving School will effectively prepare you for a rewarding career in today’s trucking industry. Our nationally recognized CDL training programs available in Yuma, AZ include refresher courses and road testing. Call us today at (888) 647-3239.

Professional truck drivers learn very early in their careers just how important it is to remain aware at all times on the road. But it’s equally important to remain aware of safety issues while off the road. Many accidents occur while backing up a tractor trailer, particularly big rigs with sleeper berths. Since you’ll need to back up your big rig each time you get to a loading dock, you’ll need to master this skill before you graduate from truck driving school.

Watch the steering wheel.

If you’re driving a car, the car moves in the same direction that the top of the steering wheel is moving in. This is true regardless of whether you’re moving forward or in reverse. It’s totally different with a tractor trailer, since big rigs are articulated. Instead, watch the bottom of the steering wheel. The bottom will always move in the same direction as the trailer when backing up. Keep this in mind to help you visualize the proper mechanics of backing up.

Don’t rely solely on your mirrors.

This is another major difference between driving a car and a big rig. Your side mirrors on a big rig won’t let you know where the trailer is or where it’s going. You’ll only see the side of the trailer. Instead, when you pull up, try to position your trailer to the most ideal place for backing in. This ideal spot is wherever you can back up with a minimum of maneuvering. At frequent intervals, park the rig and get out to examine your position. Don’t worry if you have to get out every few feet—it’s far better to take your time backing up than to risk an accident.

Pull up more than once if you need to.

If you notice that you’re maneuvering more than you’d like, or if you’re at risk of an accident, stop what you’re doing. Pull up again and reposition the trailer. Then, start the process of backing up over again.

After graduating from a CDL training program at Yuma Truck Driving School, you’ll be a pro at handling a big rig. Call our office in Yuma, AZ, at (888) 647-3239 to find out about enrolling in our flexible learning programs!

When you’re about to head out with a load and your semi truck won’t start, the last thing you want to deal with is a major delay. Fortunately, there is a good chance you’ll find what is wrong and get on the road fast with a little bit of troubleshooting. Get your truck back to roadworthy conditions with these steps.

Check Your Cables and Sensors

Semi trucks are a maze of cables and sensors that you learn about during truck driver training. All it takes is a cable to shake loose or a sensor to go out for your truck not to start. Double-check these components to make sure nothing is out of place. If you spot an issue, reconnect or restore the problem part, and your truck should be ready to go. Don’t forget to pay close attention to your battery connection.

Look into Your Ignition Lock

Many drivers use ignition locks to protect both their semis and the valuable goods inside of them. However, if you fail to disengage the lock properly, it could end up preventing you from driving away. If your truck won’t start, make sure all of the security equipment is properly disengaged, so you can get on the road.

Wait for Your Glow Plugs

Many diesel trucks have glow plugs that have to be warm for the truck to run. Glow plugs generally heat very quickly—usually without you even being aware that it is happening—but sometimes the process can take longer. This is especially true of your truck has been parked somewhere cold. Even if the temps are cold, your glow plugs should warm up in about 30 seconds. Keep cranking for 30 seconds or so, and if the truck suddenly comes to life, your glow plugs were likely just taking some to get warm.

At Yuma Truck Driving School, we give you all of the tools you need for a career as a driver, from learning to troubleshoot your truck to building your skills at different types of driving. Find out how to enroll by calling (888) 647-3239.

Earning your CDL is the first step toward an exciting career as a truck driver. Operating a truck is an enormous responsibility, and drivers are held to a high standard. As such, there are a number of reasons that your CDL could be disqualified, either temporarily or permanently. Avoid these scenarios to protect your career as a truck driver.

DUI

In Arizona, there is zero tolerance for operating a truck under the influence of alcohol. Operating a truck is consent for a blood alcohol concentration, or BAC, test, and if your BAC is .04% or higher, you could lose your CDL for one year for a first offense or for life for your second offense. You will also lose your license if you refuse an alcohol test. You can also lose your CDL is you are involved in a DUI in your personal vehicle. If your personal license is disqualified, your CDL will be as well.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Accidents involving semi trucks are often serious. If you leave the scene, even if the accident was not your fault, your license may be suspended for a year. After a second incident, you can lose your CDL for life. If an accident is determined to be your fault, your license may also be disqualified. You can lose your license for a year if a fatality occurred in the accident and for 60 to 120 days if you committed a serious traffic violation, such as changing lanes erratically or speeding.

Failing to Submit to Medical Testing

To keep roads safe, the Department of Transportation requires periodic medical certifications. If you don’t undergo medical testing that is required and provide documentation of your test results, your license can be disqualified. It may also be disqualified if you fail to meet to medical standards set by the DOT.

Let Yuma Truck Driving School equip you with the skills you need to start your career as a truck driver. Learn more about our CDL training, job placement assistance, and paid externships by calling (888) 647-3239.

When you attend truck driving school, the final step in starting your career is earning your CDL. The CDL has a skills/road test component as well as a written, knowledge component. To earn a license, applicants must score at least 80% on the written part of the test. The test can be retaken as soon as the next day if you do not meet the 80% requirement. Here is a look at what you can expect.

The test is multiple choice.

The questions on the test are in multiple choice format. Although tests are subject to change, the CDL test general has 50 multiple choice questions, of which you must get 40 right to achieve a passing grade. There is no time limit, but test will automatically stop if you miss too many questions to receive an 80% on the test. If you do not pass the test, you will be given the opportunity to book another attempt. You can’t attempt the test twice in one day but can take a retest the next day.

Questions are taken from the state CDL manual.

Arizona’s CDL manual has all of the information that you need to study to pass the test. Questions are taken from each part of the manual and may cover information ranging from vehicle inspections and road signs to shifting techniques, railroad crossing safety, and state drunk driving laws. You should be familiar with all of the information in the manual, as it is all fair game for the test.

There are strict rules about what you can bring in the test room.

You must go into the testing room alone. Kids must wait in the waiting room. You will not be allowed to bring in phones or electronic dictionaries. You can keep bags and purses with you, but you’ll put them in a place in the room that is away from the computer on which you’ll take the test.

Yuma Truck Driving School helps aspiring truck drivers launch their careers with the education and training they need to succeed. To learn more about becoming a truck driver, call (888) 647-3239.

Truck drivers have a unique position in the fight against human trafficking. Drivers are on the front lines in areas in which traffickers operate, putting them in the position to see red flags that other people don’t. The training that truckers have in being aware of their surroundings can extend to being aware of behavior that could indicate that human trafficking from occurring. By speaking up, truck drivers can save the lives of victims of this multi-billion dollar industry. Here are some of the things truck drivers can do to fight back against human trafficking.

Look for Signs of Control

Human traffickers often frequent truck stops, which means truckers may easily encounter situations in which people are being forced to engage in activities against their will. Keep an eye out for signs that another person, such as a pimp, is controlling a person. People under the control of a pimp or sex trafficker may also be branded or have a tattoo of someone else’s name. These brands and tattoos are often clearly visible on the neck. Both men and women can fall victim to sex traffickers, so keep an eye out for victims of both genders.

Keep an Eye Out for Minors

Human traffickers often target minors forced into the sex industry. At truck stops, take action if you see any minor who appears to be involved in prostitution. Minors cannot consent to being involved in the sex trade, so this activity should always be reported, even if there is not the clear presence of a trafficker or pimp.

Trust Your Gut

Human traffickers count on people hesitating to report activities that seem unusual. If you see something that doesn’t look right, speak up. Call the authorities if you have any suspicions. It’s better to report something and let law enforcement investigate than to ignore a situation in which traffickers are exploiting someone.

When you attend Yuma Truck Driving School, you’ll get the tools you need to not only drive but to adapt to life on the road. Your new career starts today when you call (888) 647-3239.

Benjamin Franklin may have been right about the inevitability of death and taxes, but clearly, he never encountered rush hour in Los Angeles, or he surely would have added that conundrum. Traffic is another one of those certainties in life that everyone must deal with. Traffic jams can be particularly challenging for truck drivers, particularly since they’re paid by the mile and because big rigs aren’t easy to maneuver. Savvy truck drivers use the radio or CB to find out about potential traffic issues ahead, and to adjust their plans accordingly.

Los Angeles, CA
According to the INRIX Global Traffic Scorecard, Los Angeles has once again earned the dubious distinction of being the number one most traffic congested city in the world. This scorecard was ranked according to the average amount of time drivers spent sitting in traffic jams. In Los Angeles, that number was 102 hours during 2017. To put that in perspective, 102 hours is the equivalent of 4.25 days.

New York City, NY
In the U.S., New York City is the second-most traffic congested city. Its drivers sat for an average of 91 hours in traffic jams during 2017. However, it isn’t just the traffic that discourages truck drivers from taking a route near here. NYC is infamous for low overpasses, scarce truck stops, and streets so narrow they’re impossible to turn onto. The good thing is that NYC cops are very helpful to truck drivers stuck in a bad situation. Additionally, some trucking companies offer extra pay for NYC routes!

Atlanta, GA
Atlanta is another city that’s infamous for its traffic jams. Situated just northeast of Atlanta is the Tom Moreland Interchange, more often referred to as Spaghetti Junction. During peak traffic hours, truckers can expect to creep forward at less than 20 mph.

You’ll get the insider’s scoop on life as a CDL driver when you enroll at Yuma Truck Driving School. Give us a call today at (888) 647-3239 to request information about our comprehensive driving training programs. Our friendly staff in Yuma, AZ can also help you explore financial assistance options!

Life as a trucker can be challenging at times, but it can also be incredibly rewarding—especially if you make an effort to learn from your experiences. At truck driving school, you’ll learn everything you need to earn your CDL, like the basics of operating a big rig and how to hook up a trailer. But during your first year on the road, you’ll learn other valuable lessons, like the following.

Goal-setting is important.
Driving for hours at a stretch can test your physical and mental fitness. Keep focused on the future by setting goals. Some common goals for new truck drivers are to get more “seat time,” which translates to more experience, to avoid accidents, and to reach financial goals.

Toiletries cost more at truck stops.
No matter which truck stop you’re at, it’s a sure bet that the toiletries available for sale will always be more expensive than at big box stores. Consider them to be a last resort if you happen to run out of something. Otherwise, purchase items like soap, shave cream, toothpaste, and deodorant at a supermarket. Package them neatly into a toiletries kit to take with you. Don’t forget your washcloth and towel!

Certain tools are worth their weight in gold.
Truck drivers swear by their flashlights. Get a top-quality flashlight and always keep extra batteries on hand. You’ll need it for checking underneath the truck and double-checking that the cargo is properly secured. You should also have a power inverter and a digital camera. Use the camera to document every problem you encounter, like if a broken pallet was loaded in the trailer even after you objected to it.

Yuma Truck Driving School offers world-class career training and job placement programs for aspiring truck drivers. Our instructors provide multiple training programs, so you’ll find exactly the right fit for you. Call our office in Yuma, AZ at (888) 647-3239 to ask about our next open house event.

When you become a truck driver, you’ll get to know weigh stations intimately. If you haven’t yet started your journey into the industry, you should know what these stations mean for you and if you even need to stop at them at all. Before you enter the trucking life, read on to learn what happens at weigh stations.

What They Are
Roads get us where we need to go, but we have to take care of them as we use them. As strong as they are, roads can only take so much weight and traffic before they’re worn down to the point where they need to be rebuilt. Weigh stations make sure that your vehicle isn’t putting too much pressure on the road. Although there are exceptions, trucks in the United States are typically only allowed to be a total of 80,000 pounds or less including cargo. Weigh stations make sure that drivers adhere to this standard.

Who Needs to Stop
Not everyone needs to stop at weigh stations. If you drive a commercial motor vehicle that doesn’t crack 10,000 pounds, or if you have a PrePass, you might not need to stop at the weigh station. Knowing whether you need to stop will help you anticipate the rest of your route.

How It Works
If you’re driving a truck and you see an open sign at an upcoming weigh station, that means you need to stop there. You’ll typically use a rolling scale, and if your load registers at under 80,000 pounds, you should be allowed to pass through.

The best trucker life starts in a truck driving school, so call Yuma Truck Driving School at (888) 647-3239. We’ll help you prepare for the start of your career by teaching you how to pass your CDL test and find a job, and you can learn everything you need to by browsing our website.