52 10-4 Magazine / August 2025 Europe and the United States is huge, with the starkest difference being which side of the road we drive on! There is also a speed differential between driving in the US and Europe. The length of our trailers and, for the most part, the fact that we still run conventional tractors and not COEs, is very different, as well. Here in the US, we typically run tractor-trailer setups, while European countries run truck and trailer configurations (lorries). Our road width and lane restrictions can also give a false sense of confidence. I often see drivers rolling at 70 mph or more, in heavy traffic, wearing bed clothes, with their bare feet on the seat or near the dash, not even close to the controls. With their seat reclined way too far back, they follow the truck in front of them too closely. We used to call this tailgating, then it was jokingly referred to as “drafting” – now it’s the precursor to a rear-end collision. I would like to state for the record, if you are wondering, the center median is not a parking spot if the truck stop is full. It only takes a split second for another driver to be distracted and lose control. This can not only destroy your equipment, but in the most extreme case, it can contribute to a fatality on the road, so just don’t do it. End of rant. To get back to my original point, I just got back from a run to the west coast originating here in Michigan. During this trip, I was purposely watching to see if there was any difference in the number of these careless drivers. I did notice across Nebraska and Wyoming that the average speed was slower than a few months ago. The drivers there appeared to be more diligent and attentive. I have no way to tell if things were any safer or not, but it does look like some type of improvement is happening. I do believe there should be some sort of a refresher course for seasoned drivers, as well. The equipment we see and operate today is vastly different from the type and style we drove back in those “good ole days” I spoke about earlier. As drivers, we also need to get updated or rebooted to comply with the latest technology. On a side note, this would be a great time for the federal government to allocate additional funds for certified technical assistance or advanced training in conjunction with the commercial driver’s license training programs. If I was in charge I would place a premium on older drivers with excellent driving records to mentor or instruct in that training. That’s how I learned nearly 50 years ago – first by riding in the jump seat, and then later transitioning to the driver’s seat. There really is more to driving a truck than just holding the steering wheel. Back in the old days, there were no simulators or computer screens, and when at work (driving) you can bet I never looked like I was going to bed or just got up. The Wagon Master (my father-in-law and mentor) made certain I was completely dressed and wearing boots, even when in the jump seat. We hauled cattle in those days and never knew when we would have to address something in the trailer. As you have heard me say many times, “Prior Preparation Prevents Poor Performance” (or something like that). Another good lesson is, “Money talks, and BS walks” – just be sure before you step in some you aren’t wearing flip flops or in your bare feet! Let’s be safe and courteous out there on the highway this summer, and if you get the chance, take in a car show or two, 10-4! n
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