Category: Blog

Truck driving school will prepare you with the skills that you need to excel in the truck driving industry. Along with learning the essentials about how to operate a commercial truck, you will also gain valuable safety tips and information during your time at truck driving school. Once you start your first long haul journey, you should be aware of the signs that you are becoming fatigued behind the wheel. Here is an overview of the dangerous signs of driver fatigue.

Blurry Eyesight

As you become fatigued behind the wheel, your eyes may start to have increased difficulty focusing on the road ahead. Your vision problems may increase if you begin to blink or nod more frequently as you are driving. If have driven to the point where you are no longer able to see clearly, this is a sure sign that you are in need of a rest break.

Trouble Focusing

When your brain starts to get tired, it may not be able to pay attention to the task at hand. Drowsy drivers are susceptible to daydreaming or inattention to their surroundings. You may also have difficulty recalling the sights or signs that you have just passed along the road.

Nodding Off

If your driving fatigue becomes extremely dangerous, you may actually start to nod off when your truck is still in motion. While your drowsy sensations may be minor at first, they can quickly escalate and cause you to drift off momentarily while you are driving. Rather than pushing through the fatigue, pull off and rest until you are able to drive safely.

At Yuma Truck Driving School, our comprehensive truck driver training program will prepare you for any situation that you experience during your career. If you are interested in starting a successful truck driving career, you should enroll at our top-rated truck driving academy in Yuma. To hear more about the dates of our upcoming open house, give us a call at (888) 647-3239.

When you get your first commercial truck driving road, you may find yourself getting tempted by treats at truck stops and fast food restaurants that you pass during your daily drives. However, neglecting your diet when you are on the road can lead to an expanded waist line and other serious health issues. With a few simple diet tips, it is very possible to maintain a healthy diet on the road. Let’s review three simple tips that truck drivers can use to balance their diets.

Eat Plenty of Fresh Foods

Fresh foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are a foundation for a balanced diet. Rather than reaching for a bag of chips or a sugary soda, you can curb your cravings with carrots, apples, and other fresh snacks. Today, many gas stations and rest stops are stocked up with fresh produce items that are ready to grab and go.

Drink Lots of Water

During your long hours on the road, it can be tempting to reach for highly caffeinated or sugary beverages. While these drinks can provide you with a temporary energy boost, too many sugary and caffeinated beverages can lead to weight gain and blood sugar spikes. Carrying a water bottle with you as you drive will encourage you to drink plenty of fresh, healthy water as you drive.

Monitor Your Protein Intake

A balanced diet contains protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Unfortunately, many of the treats and meals that are available for truck drivers are very high in carbs and fats, and lower in protein. High protein foods, such as energy bars, protein shakes, and trail mixes, can help you supplement your diet with the fuel that you need to stay healthy.

When you attend classes at Yuma Truck Driving School, we will provide you with the information that you need to stay healthy on the road. If you are interested in our truck training programs, be sure to attend one of our open houses. Give us a call at (888) 647-3239 to hear more about how we can help you pass the CDL exam.

If you have been working in the same field for decades, you may be dreaming of switching up your current position for an entirely new career. A field such as truck driving offers fantastic opportunities for career changes later on in life. By taking the plunge and transitioning to a new career, you can achieve a whole new outlook on your workweek. Let’s take a look at three reasons why it’s never too late to change careers.

Many Jobs Hire Older Workers

One of the main things that may be holding you back from changing careers is the thought that you are too old to be hired by a new company. In fact, there are many different types of industries that happily hire older workers. Many truck drivers, for example, get their first jobs after they have retired from their primary careers.

A New Career Provides Renewed Purpose

Working the same type of job day in and day out for decades may leave you feeling like your life is lacking in purpose. Studying for a new career and taking the time to send out your applications can renew your sense of purpose and accomplishment. When you get hired in your new career, you will also have the opportunity to gain additional skills and knowledge.

Career Changes Can Be Financially Beneficial

When you start to approach retirement age, you may find that your retirement fund is not as large as you would like. By changing careers, it is possible to find a new position that offers better opportunities for advancements and a healthier starting salary. After you have changed up your career, you may find that you are more financially stable.

At Yuma Truck Driving School, we welcome students who are looking for career changes. When you attend our truck driving school in Tucson, our friendly instructors will provide you with all the information that you need to embark on your truck driving career. Call us at (888) 647-3239 to learn more about our enrollment process.

When you’ve passed your CDL test and gotten your first trucking job, you’ll have the opportunity to customize your rig. Although there are countless ways you can do this, you might want to consider starting with a new steering wheel, a sleeping area, and reminders of home. Read on for a closer look at these tips.

Choose a New Wheel

Along with being safe, staying comfortable is of paramount importance as a truck driver. Since you’ll spend a great deal of time on the road, a minor discomfort can become excruciating over time. This is why you should consider customizing your steering wheel right away. Your factory steering wheel might not be so comfortable, which can bring about all kinds of problems, from blisters on your fingers to difficulty controlling your vehicle. A more ergonomic steering wheel will keep you physically comfortable and mentally confident.

Set Up a Sleeping Area

Since being safe and comfortable is so important on the road, you should be sure to get an adequate amount of rest. Proper sleep will keep you alert and your reflexes ready, which are both crucial when driving. Although you’ll likely spend your nights in hotels, it helps to have a sleeping area in your truck as well. If you have room for it, this area can let you catch up on some sleep if you find that you’re too tired to keep going safely.

Bring Mementos Along

It’s easy to get homesick, which is why some truck drivers like to bring mementos along with them during their excursions. Pictures of family members, friends, and events that you hold dear can remind you of home and keep you motivated on the road.

You won’t start customizing your rig until you’ve earned your commercial driver’s license, so contact Yuma Truck Driving School to learn what you need to know. Feel free to check out our website or call us at (888) 647-3239 for a look at our services.

One of the best parts about being a truck driver is the variety of types of scenery you’ll see throughout your travels. If you want to make it a point to stop by interesting attractions while you’re out on the road, look them up in advance. Here are a few unique roadside attractions you’ll see as a truck driver, if you keep an eye out while you’re in the area.

Mummies of the Insane

You’ve heard about mummification, but you probably associate it with ancient times. You can, however, witness mummified remains from 1888 if you head to the right roadside attraction. Philippi, West Virginia is home to Mummies of the Insane, which is a roadside attraction that lets you view the preserved remains of two corpses. In the late 19th century, the West Virginia Hospital for the Insane sold these corpses so that they could be embalmed and preserved. If you pass through Philippi, consider stopping by.

Cardiff Giant

The Baseball Hall of Fame isn’t the only thing to appreciate about Cooperstown, New York—the town also houses the Cardiff Giant, which was built in the mid-19th century. An inspired experimenter read about underground giants in the Bible, and he decided to create and bury a stone giant. When it was discovered, he made a great deal of money charging people to witness what they thought was proof of their religious text.

Chief Crazy Horse Memorial

The Chief Crazy Horse Memorial can be found in Crazy Horse, South Dakota. This roadside attraction depicts Chief Crazy Horse’s head, and it is carved in massive fashion into the mountainside. If you thought Mount Rushmore was special, wait until you see this.

If you’re wondering if truck driving is the right career choice for you, feel free to call Yuma Truck Driving School at (888) 647-3239. You can also check out our website to learn about what our truck driving school can do for you.

The trucking industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States. It employs millions of people and bolsters the entire United States economy. Read on for more interesting and fun facts about the trucking industry.

It is vital to the U.S. economy.

According to the American Trucking Association, the trucking industry is responsible for almost $40 billion paid into federal and state taxes. In addition to taxes, the trucking industry is responsible for over 12% of all registered vehicles, which brings in additional revenue. Truck drivers are also integral to almost every industry in the world, because they transport grocery goods, raw materials, electronics, livestock, and countless retail products. The United States economy would suffer greatly without the trucking industry.

It employs millions of drivers.

In 2014, the trucking industry was responsible for employing over 7 million people. Over 3 million of them were certified truck drivers, and over 200,000 were female drivers. This is important to the economy and millions of citizens’ continued welfare.

It is a growing industry.

As online retail steadily increases in popularity, and the United States economy continues to grow, the trucking industry grows as well. Carrier companies totaled over 1.5 million in 2015 between for-hire, private, and non-specified companies. This number will continue to grow with the increase of truck driving schools and employees looking for non-university education and training to enter the workforce.

It has reduced exhaust emissions.

The trucking industry has cut down its exhaust emissions by 95% since the 1980s. Technology is constantly improving to include clean-running diesel trucks and electric rigs. These changes are vital to the health of the environment and the continued running of the trucking industry.

Learn more fun facts with the instructors at Yuma Truck Driving School. We offer training in all three CDL classifications, as well as financial assistance and job placement assistance. Please call us at (888) 647-3239 to learn how to become a truck driver in Yuma, AZ.

It is important to your career as a truck driver to be physically fit and healthy enough to perform your job well. You must be able to maintain a clean bill of health and take a routine physical to maintain your CDL certification. Read on to see if you are physically fit to be a truck driver.

Do you follow a healthy diet?

Eating a healthy diet is vital to your continued career as a truck driver. You will be in your cab for most of your time on the road, and that will severely impede your ability to exercise and move around. You must follow a healthy diet to avoid gaining weight or becoming overly fatigued and sickly while driving. A healthy diet should consist of lean meats, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid sugary sodas, energy drinks, and foods high in carbohydrates.

Do you have an exercise regimen?

Exercise is important to your physical, mental, and emotional health. Getting your heart rate up can keep your weight stable, decrease risks of developing diseases, and keep your energy levels up. These traits are important for a successful career in truck driving. It may seem difficult to exercise while on the road, but there are several simple ways that you can keep your body moving as much as possible. Perform simple yoga stretches, calisthenics, and high-intensity interval exercises every time you stop. You can also use a national gym membership, so you have access to a gym almost everywhere you visit.

Do you have a clean bill of health?

Part of passing your CDL certification requires that your physical be clean. You should not have a history of or heightened risk of developing certain conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease. If you have a clean bill of health, then you can succeed as a truck driver.

Earn your education and CDL certification in Yuma, AZ by attending Yuma Truck Driving School. We are committed to providing a complete education along with dedicated job placement. Please call us at (888) 647-3239 to speak with our admissions experts.

If you are thinking about going back to school to study for your CDL exam, it is a terrific idea to get a better idea of the career opportunities that will be available to you after you get your CDL. While a CDL will qualify you for standard trucking jobs, there are other, more surprising positions that may be available to you once you become a certified truck driver. Here is an overview of three unusual jobs that require a CDL.

Food Service

Trucking and delivery is a very important aspect of the food service industry. If you have always wanted to work in a restaurant environment, you may want to check out the food service jobs that are available to truck drivers. As a CDL holder, you will have the credentials that are needed to deliver ingredients, haul cooking grease, and even ship prepared foods around the country.

Emissions Testing

Truck drivers are also able to work in engineering and scientific fields. With your CDL, you will be eligible to become an emissions tester for a diesel engine manufacturing company. In order to make sure that their engines do not create too many harmful emissions, diesel engine companies employ truck drivers to test out their products on the open road.

Mail Delivery

Mail delivery is a very popular position for CDL drivers. When you pass your CDL exam, you will be ready to get a job with the U.S. Postal Service. Your postal service duties may include delivering mail, picking up packages, and transporting letters across longer distances.

At Yuma Truck Driving School, our knowledgeable instructors will be able to help you start a successful truck driving career. We offer training for brand new drivers and experienced professionals, and we will provide you with job placement services that will help you get your start in the industry. Give us a call at (888) 647-3239 to learn more about how our highly regarded CDL program can help you land the truck driving job of your dreams.

After you have gotten your CDL and been hired for a truck driving position, you may expect to spend long days or even weeks out on the road. While being away from home can be a challenge at first, you will soon learn to take advantage of the different services that are available to you in your travels. If you are wondering what to expect from your first long haul truck driving position, here is a list of some common amenities that you will find on the open road.

Chiropractors

Driving a commercial truck can result in back pain and other issues. In order to maintain your wellbeing when you are out on a long haul journey, you may want to take advantage of chiropractic services that are available out on the road. Your truck driving company will typically provide you with insurance coverage that includes chiropractic appointments.

WiFi

Staying in touch with friends and family members is a priority for any long haul driver. When you are driving across the country, you will find convenient WiFi access at truck stops, coffee shops, and other facilities. By hooking up to WiFi, you will be able to send emails, video chat with your loved ones, and easily stay in touch with the important people in your life.

Laundry

As you make your way along your long haul journey, you will need to keep up with essential chores, such as doing your laundry. Many towns and rest areas will offer convenient laundry mats that will allow you to keep your uniform fresh and polished throughout your drive.

If you have more questions about what you can expect from your career as a truck driver, contact Yuma Truck Driving School by calling (888) 647-3239. Our nationally recognized truck driver training program will allow you to take advantage of the booming trucking industry. When you attend our trucking school, you will work with experienced instructors to prepare for your CDL exam, and we will also assist you with job placement services.

There are several types of systems and technological advancements in the auto industry, such as hybrid engines and safety equipment. With these technologies in the trucking industry, truck drivers and cargo companies will be safer on the roads, save fuel costs, and meet their deadlines more efficiently. Read on to look at the latest trucking technology.

Hybrid System

Electric engines and hybrid technology has been popular in consumer vehicles for several years. As demand increases for big rigs to become eco-friendlier, this type of technology must be scaled to effectively power these large trucks. Wal-Mart has recently unveiled a hybrid drive system with a lightweight, carbon fiber trailer. Coupled with an aerodynamic design and more cargo space, this type of trucking technology could revolutionize the industry’s energy-reducing efforts.

Platooning System

A platooning system can help reduce collisions, improve truck-to-truck communication, and boost fuel efficiency. Two-truck platooning technology allows trucks to travel closer together—which can reduce drag and fuel consumption—but also reduce the chances of potential collisions.

Highway Pilot System

The Highway Pilot system, created by Daimler Trucks, is similar to an autopilot system. This technology combines various sensors, cameras, and radar to gauge a truck’s immediate surroundings. With the information this technology provides, the truck can safely drive itself. The truck driver can focus on other aspects of his job, such as plotting a route or filling out paperwork.

360-Degree System

Using technology similar to that of the Highway Pilot system, 360-degree technology can help a truck driver avoid collisions and possible mishaps. The 360-degree technology scans the surrounding environment for safety concerns and notifies the driver so he can make appropriate adjustments.

Work with Yuma Truck Driving School to learn about past, current, and future trucking technology. Our instructors teach our students everything they need to know for a successful career in truck driving. To learn more about our curriculum and fleet, please call us at (888) 647-3239.

Maintaining an active lifestyle and a healthy diet are the keys to a successful trucking career and a healthy life. To learn more tips to a healthy trucking career, continue reading below.

Maintain an Active Lifestyle

When you are sitting in a truck cab for several hours at a time, it is crucial to maintain an active lifestyle. Every opportunity you get, you should engage in some sort of physical exercise. There are several exercises you can do during a short break on the side of the road, such as yoga stretches, pushups, and running in place. Keep your heartrate up every chance you can to keep your body and mind healthy.

Eat a Healthy Diet

In addition to performing various exercises, seek out healthier food options off and on the road. Pack healthier snacks—such as vegetables, nuts, and low-fat dairy products—and avoid fast food restaurants. By choosing healthier options, you will feel more alert, less bloated, and more satisfied during long hours on the road.

Continue a Personal Life

It is important to maintain your personal life while driving. Even if you are gone from home for several days at a time, keep in contact with your friends and family while you are away. Maintaining this contact will help you to feel connected with your home life, prevent depression, and keep your mind active.

Retain Healthy Sleep Patterns

Sleep is one of the most important elements to a healthy lifestyle. However, it may be downplayed in the trucking industry, because clients have strict deadlines and expectations for truck drivers to meet. It is important to retain healthy sleep patterns. Your mental and physical health depend on achieving a healthy amount of sleep.

Yuma Truck Driving School is committed to teaching you the right and wrong habits to have while on the road. Please visit us online or call us at (888) 647-3239 to learn more about having a healthy trucking career.

If you are a veteran of the United States Military, you may be wondering what is in store for you once you retire from active duty. Through the GI Bill, the U.S. Military is able to provide educational benefits for all of its veterans. By using your GI Bill to pay for trucking school, you can transition into a satisfying career after your military years are completed. Here is a look at some ways to use your GI bill to pay for truck driving school.

GI Bill Education Benefits

When you are a veteran, you will receive full benefits from the GI Bill. Through the Post 9/11 GI Bill, the military is able to provide veterans with up to $18,077.50 in annual tuition assistance payments. If you have retired from the military in the past 15 years, you will be able to use these benefits to pay for your truck school, or your living expenses while you are studying.

Veterans Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits

Retired military personnel are not the only veterans that receive terrific benefits through the GI Bill. If you were injured in the line of duty and retired before your tour was through, you may be able to receive Veterans Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits. Using these funds to pay for truck driving school will help you jump start a new career.

Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program

The GI Bill also provides benefits to the spouses and children of qualified veterans. If your parent or spouse was injured during active duty, you may be able to receive financial benefits that will go towards the cost of your truck driving education.

For more information about how truck driving schools help veterans, call Yuma Truck Driving School at (888) 647-3239. We are proud to accept GI Bill educational benefits, and you are sure to enjoy our comprehensive truck training program in Tucson. Contact us to learn more about how you can enroll in our truck training course.