What advice would you add to a training manual for a new driver !!! Looking for simple things that are usually overlooked or things you have been caught out with.
ive a few
learn to read a map dont rely on the sat nav
carry a torch
learn to tie a kinch/dolly knot straps not allways the answer
definatley learn to read a map
amazing how many people even before the days of sat nav
didnt even own any
Buy a truck driver edition atlas with low bridges marked in it. Mine has been invaluable.
tofer:
Buy a truck driver edition atlas with low bridges marked in it. Mine has been invaluable.
also the TFL map is a good investment,tells about conjestion charge/low bridges/width limits and weight limits.it covers all inside and outside m25,think it was only £5 or something like that.also covers parking/waiting/loading restrictions in different areas/boroughs.
willie_mac:
What advice would you add to a training manual for a new driver !!! Looking for simple things that are usually overlooked or things you have been caught out with.
In the early years of my driving career, I first drove a skip lorry which was good ground to learn about soft ground entering building sites. Then progressed to 38 ton brick crane artic’s. The best advice I can offer is take your time, do not race and tare around it will only cause you problems. If you go somewhere tight stop and have a look first before entering. Ask for advice and if you cause damage report straight away. Keep to speed limits, work hard and keep your mouth shut and your ears open, good luck
Learn how to use sat nav properly.
It doesn’t matter how many shunts or how many times you get out to look you’ll never look as stupid as when hit something.
If you’ve got to block a road to maneurve do it quick and don’t be hurried by waiting traffic.
Don’t be afraid to ask more experienced drivers advice, most don’t bite.
willie_mac:
What advice would you add to a training manual for a new driver !!! Looking for simple things that are usually overlooked or things you have been caught out with.
Blimey Willie, how long is a piece of string ■■
Is this book to be just given to learners to take away and read, or is it to be used in conjunction with a classroom-based course?
A few ideas in no particular order…
Explanation of LGV offences and penalties
Explanation of the ‘O’ licencing system
Defect reporting
How to calculate axle weights / load distribution
Overview of different types of loads
Securing of loads
Multi-modal transport
Dangerous goods awareness and thresholds for needing an ADR licence
Map reading skills and use of appropriate routes
Driving licence entitlements and obligations
Vehicle and load documentation
H&S
Accident procedure at work / on road
The use of I.T. in transport
Basic first-aid
…and an editorial by Willie on dealing with Traffic Commissioners and officialdom by using tact and diplomacy. 
OK, I’ll get me coat… 
Don’t be afraid to ASK questions if you are not sure of something.
Keep a lot of extra distance from the vehicle in front as you will be driving all sorts of vehicles that you are not familiar with.
If possible - read the driver handbook for the vehicle.
Keep a copy of the basic vehicle safety check sheet that who had for your test.
ARTIC newbies - write down the un/couple procedures and keep them handy to refer to.
Carry a roll of good quality gaffer tape for those ‘oops’ moments 
Always carry a change of clothing, day workers I mean not trampers. Nothing is worse than having to sit in wet clothes for the rest of the day.
Always make sure you have access to money or a crecdit card for emergencies.
Always have some way for emergancy services to ID you, just in case.
Make sure your driving position is comfortable, there is nothing worse than trying to get comfortable after you set off.
Never set off without contact numbers for your employers, especially after hours contacts. Sods law if something goes wrong it goes wrong after the office bods have gone home.
EDIT
Nearly forgot, forget everything your instructor told you, your in the real world now and nobody drives the way way they did to pass their test 
Always take your time and never be afraid to ask - everyone was a beginner once.
When it is all going wrong, and you think everyone is looking at you - they’re not - they’re too busy struggling to do the Sun 10 minute crossword.
Always carry WD40 and gaffer tape -
If it should move and doesn’t spray it with WD40
If it shouldn’t move and it does tape it up with gaffer tape
Okey-Didley-Dokely:
Nearly forgot, forget everything your instructor told you, your in the real world now and nobody drives the way way they did to pass their test
But whilst progressing from what you did for your test to gaining a more personal, and hopefully higher level, of driving competance - Remember - SAFETY always comes first - no matter what.
Check your trailer to make sure you have the right load.
Remember to open doors of drop tail-lift before reversing onto bay.
ROG:
Okey-Didley-Dokely:
Nearly forgot, forget everything your instructor told you, your in the real world now and nobody drives the way way they did to pass their testBut whilst progressing from what you did for your test to gaining a more personal, and hopefully higher level, of driving competance - Remember - SAFETY always comes first - no matter what.
Can always rely on you eh ROG
If in doubt drive flat out…
scottishcruiser:
If in doubt drive flat out…
Colin Mcrae by any chance?
Don’t get stressed or flustered - you’ll only give yourself a headache or break something.
Get a map and learn how to use it - i was five hours late for a delivery on one of my first days driving, shop manager didn’t seem to see the funny side…
Car drivers are lemmings - they really are!
Always take your time and refuse to be rushed - Your hgv licence will of cost a lot of money, you don’t want to lose it.
If you ever need to block a road, just do it, needs must, you’ve got a job to do.
If in doubt about anything, ask. Im only to happy to help anybody who needs it and likewise i will always ask for advice if i need to.
so much to say, its amazing what you learn when you’re out and about…
Dont believe all that you hear when in truckstops/drivers restuarant on ferries ect . . .90% of it is bulls**t
Suedehead:
Dont believe all that you hear when in truckstops/drivers restuarant on ferries ect . . .90% of it is bulls**t
Don’t forget TNUK