Starting a career as a truck driver can be exciting and comes with a steep learning curve. Whether driving a big, medium-sized, or small pickup truck, there are some mistakes that a rookie truck driver can make. Some of these mistakes may also have legal and financial consequences; that’s why one should try and avoid them at all costs. Below are the five most common mistakes that new truck drivers must avoid.

Driving too fast
Rookie truck drivers must always be cautious while driving. Going too fast leads to losing control and leads to unforeseen situations. That is why one must not hurry on the road. It is best to take all the time to reach the destination safely. Adhering to the speed limit and modifying the driving speed according to road conditions can avert disastrous outcomes.

Ignoring the road signs
Navigation systems can be helpful but may get misleading sometimes. Moreover, they may not give the correct information on speed limit changes on a specific lane. In such cases, road signs can help best, so it is imperative to pay attention to them.

Not paying attention when backing up
Whether driving a big, small, or a pickup truck, backing up is one of the major challenges on the road. Truck drivers must cautiously check for obstructions before backing up. It is also essential to make the most of the driver aids such as side mirrors and backing-up cameras.

Ignoring weather conditions
Weather conditions may always affect truck handling. It also affects the braking capabilities of the truck. Ignoring adverse weather conditions can affect the driving and can lead to accidents. It is always advisable to check the weather forecast before heading to the roads.

Not keeping track of the truck’s maintenance
One of rookie truck drivers’ most common mistakes is neglecting the vehicle’s maintenance. Regular maintenance helps in keeping the truck in a reliable and safe condition. Ignoring or not tracking maintenance can cause breakdowns, delays, and severe consequences on the road.