Find Professional Truck Driving Schools With These 5 Suggestions

Use this list and you will certainly find truck driving schools that are high quality. The path to finding a top notch school can be a tricky one to navigate. Many sad stories about trucking schools that have broken laws and are now closed, or in danger of closing have been echoed recently in many news papers. Many of these schools could have been avoided if these suggestions were considered.

1. Finding Truck Driving Schools on the World Wide Web

These can be found using a search engine like Bing, Google or Ask.com. The search results you get will tell you something. If you feel like you have reached an actual school, then your looking good. You'll notice very little advertisements on the home page. If you get the feeling like you have reached a web site that was set up to advertise for the benefit of many other schools, then your probably right. Your dealing with an advertiser. Not someone that is going to train you. A little more attention to detail is needed. You should be watching out for yourself on these types of site. Ultimately, they are at the top of the rankings for good reason so you may still find a quality truck driving school here.

2. How About the Yellow Pages.

This can be a great way to find a truck driving school. You can even search the yellow pages on the internet. The nice thing here is that the companies listed in the yellow pages have to pay for their ad space. That will usually rule out the fly by night operations.

3. Find Trucking Magazines and Other Printed Media Publications.

Like the yellow pages, schools that advertise in magazines have paid for advertising space. This again rules out the fly by night operations. Also, the advertising terms can be shorter, so the chance of seeing a printed ad and then finding out the company has closed up shop is unlikely.

4. Advertisements or Training Truck Logo's

Almost all truck driving schools will put signs on their training equipment. Also, you can watch the training process in action. This is also an absolutely excellent way to spot a few things about the truck driving school itself. Consider the condition of the training equipment. The condition of the equipment can be a sign of how well the school takes care of its students. Also, Is the equipment out dated? Most major carrier use late model equipment. It will be a tough transition if you've learned on an old truck.

5. Career Centers and Workforce Service Locations

This is probably the least used but can be the best option for finding a quality truck driving school. Workforce service centers specialize in helping people find employment. They also know where you can go to get the training you need for the job you want. Workforce service centers only work with legitimate truck driving schools that have a positive reputation in the community, making this an excellent resource for finding a truck driving school.

BIG rig dave

Web & Sales Coordinator with CR England Trucking Inc, If you or someone you know is looking for information about Truck Driving Schools please visit our truck driving school site at http://www.GoToTruckDrivingSchool.com

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Gaining Driving Confidence is Very Important

One of the most important aspects of learning to drive is gaining an all important sense of confidence. Note, however, that this is vitally different from arrogance or presumptuousness. Many drivers, immediately upon passing their tests, suddenly feel as if they can take on any situation.

They'll think nothing of immediately going out and driving long distances or in new and unfamiliar situations such as the highway or during a rainstorm, or at night. However, this confidence is very often unfounded, and results in the person becoming "overconfident" and getting into an accident. Instead of this overzealousness, what is really needed to be a good driver is a solid sense of the rules of the road, and an accurate knowledge of one's own ability to adhere to them.

One of the best ways to gain confidence as a driver then, is to receive profession driving instruction. When you learn to drive from a qualified professional, the grasp you will get on the rules of the road and on safe driving practices far exceeds that which you would gain through other means such as learning from a friend or family member. This isn't to say, of course, that your friends and family are unsafe drivers, it's just the case that only professional driving instructors can instill the immense degree of confidence in a driver that comes with total mastery of the road.

Getting behind the wheel can sometimes be a scary thing, to be sure. This is especially true when driving on the highway at high speeds or practicing certain maneuvers such as merging into a high speed lane. The real problem, though, is that nervousness in such situations leads to inaction, which can be dangerous. When you're driving, it's often the case that hesitating is just as dangerous to proceeding too recklessly. It's only with a calm and smooth sense of assurance that you can operate a vehicle at maximum effectiveness.

Of course, it goes without saying that having confidence in your driving isn't a permanent thing. Many drivers start out confident but then get into a collision or have a dangerous near miss that suddenly robs them of all their preconceptions of their ability. They might suddenly feel as if they're an unsafe driver and fear getting behind the wheel at all. When this happens, certain steps are needed, and chief among them is getting back on the road as soon as possible.

This is something else that a professional driving teacher can help you with. By refreshing you on the rules of the road, and renewing your ability to adhere to them consciously, driving coaches are often able to help people regain faith in their own driving ability, including those who have gone through some form of trauma.

Whether you're learning to drive for the first time and want your first solo drive to be one of supreme and total confidence, or you're trying to regain confidence that you once had, trust in a qualified driving coach to give you the self-assuredness that you need.

Learn how to drive step by step with Driving Plus Driving School. For more information on Driving Plus and their instructors visit Driving Schools.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Todd_Bertshinger

Defensive Driving - Six Important Professional Driving Techniques

At the heart of defensive driving is a driver's ability to anticipate situations, including the mistakes of other drivers, especially during less-than-ideal driving conditions.

You may be an excellent driver and a master of road rules, but there's nothing like a basic knowledge of defensive driving to minimize risks on the road.

Here are six of the most important defensive driving techniques:

1. Let other drivers know of your intentions early

Sudden stops, turns and lane changes often lead to accidents because they catch other drivers by surprise. Hence, one of the basic rules of defensive driving is to clearly communicate to other drivers exactly what you are about to do. For this reason, it is crucial that your brake lights, head lights, signal indicators and other driving lights are working. If they are not, have them checked right away. Otherwise, defensive driving is not an option.

2. Being predictable helps

Having all your indicators in good working order is great, but they won't help much if you can't be predictable. Defensive driving is synonymous with being predictable - you do what you're expected to do. If you're signaling a left turn, then make a left turn. Don't signal that you're going left then suddenly turn right. And, by no means, don't keep signaling a left or right turn then just going straight ahead for miles and miles. In defensive driving, one never makes a move that confuses other drivers on the road. Surprises are great, but never when you're driving.

3. Know where you want to go

The first rule of defensive driving is: know where you want to go. There's nothing quite as dangerous as making a sudden turn or stop, which is something that drivers do when they are not sure about where they are headed. Ditto for driving slowly then suddenly zooming fast. If you're confused about where you you want to go, you're probably confusing other people on the road as well. If you're lost, park your car and regain your bearings. Check a map or street directory or maybe even ask someone for directions. The worst thing you can do is drive around aimlessly. That's like looking for trouble with a capital T.

4. Make signaling a habit

One of the best defensive driving techniques is to signal every time you turn or change lanes. That way, you never catch other drivers by surprise. Make signaling a habit. Even if the road appears to be deserted and there seem to be no other vehicles around, signaling your intent is always an excellent defensive driving practice.

5. Warn others as you stop or slow down

When making a full stop or slowing down for whatever reason, it's a good defensive driving technique to let other drivers know of your intention. You can do this by tapping the brake pedal a couple of times so that your brake lights flash and clue in others behind you that you are slowing down or stopping. This is especially important if the driver behind you is driving fast and approaching quickly.

6. Try to anticipate the worst in others

It may sound cynical and 's not a good rule to follow in life but, in defensive driving, it pays to anticipate the mistakes of other drivers on the road. For instance, many drivers routinely signal a turn but don't turn at all. Meanwhile, others don't signal at all and then suddenly turn. Many people disregard stop signals or try to run red traffic lights so keep a watchful eye out for these instances.

Serg Caro. So, don't forget that a basic knowledge of Defensive Driving helps drivers substantially minimize risks on the road. Please feel free to ask questions concerning vehicle insurance at Car Insurance forum.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Serg_Caro

Driving Lessons - It Just Makes Sense to Learn From a Professional

Driving an automobile on today's busy roads is one of the most important and most serious responsibilities young people have the privilege of taking on as they approach adulthood. When it comes to driving an automobile, the decisions a person takes and the attitudes they bring to driving will have a significant impact on their lives - from the social, economic, and safety points of view.

That is why deciding to take driving lessons is such an easy choice. Taking driving lessons right at the beginning of one's driving career will have far reaching consequences well into the future.

As with most things in life, the lessons you learn when just starting into an activity will usually set the tone for your later habits and practices. Most of the poor or dangerous habits you see in today's drivers stem from the lack of professional driver training at the outset of their driving careers.

Here are some of the most significant reasons why taking a professional driver training course is important for all beginning drivers:

First and foremost, taking professional driving lessons will greatly improve the novice driver's chances of staying safe and accident free. It is common knowledge that the first few month's of one's driving career can be the most dangerous. That is because this is the time when the new driver has the least experience and is most likely to make the wrong decision when confronted with a difficult situation. Professional training for beginning drivers emphasizes safety, caution, and familiarity with the rules of the road - the very things that can reduce the likelihood of accidents due to inexperience.

Second, a course of lessons at the start of a person's driving career will make the novice driver aware of the dangers of driving, and the expectations of other drivers. Doing this before actually getting on the road and driving will short-circuit the tendency to learn bad habits. Being under the watchful eye of a professional driving instructor will give the new driver the correct sort of attitude with respect to the rules of the road, the importance of defensive driving, and the consequences of careless or disrespectful driving.

And finally there is a number of important practical economic advantages in taking professional driving lessons. For one thing it will reduce the cost of car insurance for the new driver. In fact many insurance companies insist on a minimum number of lessons completed through a recognized driving school, before a young driver will be admitted onto a parent's policy.

For another thing learning to drive properly will save on car repairs. That applies not only to your own car, but also for the others you are likely to damage when you do not have adequate driving skills or experience.

All in all, there is simply no reason why anyone learning to drive should not relish the opportunity to take professional driving lessons. They will learn the right way, and will be thankful for that opportunity for the rest of their lives.

Finding accurate auto repair information can be difficult due to the wide variety of vehicles on the road today and the vast differences between them. You can find helpful auto repair information at AutoRepair-Info.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rick_Hendershot

Defensive Driving - Six Important Professional Driving Techniques

At the heart of defensive driving is a driver's ability to anticipate situations, including the mistakes of other drivers, especially during less-than-ideal driving conditions.

You may be an excellent driver and a master of road rules, but there's nothing like a basic knowledge of defensive driving to minimize risks on the road.

Here are six of the most important defensive driving techniques:

1. Let other drivers know of your intentions early

Sudden stops, turns and lane changes often lead to accidents because they catch other drivers by surprise. Hence, one of the basic rules of defensive driving is to clearly communicate to other drivers exactly what you are about to do. For this reason, it is crucial that your brake lights, head lights, signal indicators and other driving lights are working. If they are not, have them checked right away. Otherwise, defensive driving is not an option.

2. Being predictable helps

Having all your indicators in good working order is great, but they won't help much if you can't be predictable. Defensive driving is synonymous with being predictable - you do what you're expected to do. If you're signaling a left turn, then make a left turn. Don't signal that you're going left then suddenly turn right. And, by no means, don't keep signaling a left or right turn then just going straight ahead for miles and miles. In defensive driving, one never makes a move that confuses other drivers on the road. Surprises are great, but never when you're driving.

3. Know where you want to go

The first rule of defensive driving is: know where you want to go. There's nothing quite as dangerous as making a sudden turn or stop, which is something that drivers do when they are not sure about where they are headed. Ditto for driving slowly then suddenly zooming fast. If you're confused about where you you want to go, you're probably confusing other people on the road as well. If you're lost, park your car and regain your bearings. Check a map or street directory or maybe even ask someone for directions. The worst thing you can do is drive around aimlessly. That's like looking for trouble with a capital T.

4. Make signaling a habit

One of the best defensive driving techniques is to signal every time you turn or change lanes. That way, you never catch other drivers by surprise. Make signaling a habit. Even if the road appears to be deserted and there seem to be no other vehicles around, signaling your intent is always an excellent defensive driving practice.

5. Warn others as you stop or slow down

When making a full stop or slowing down for whatever reason, it's a good defensive driving technique to let other drivers know of your intention. You can do this by tapping the brake pedal a couple of times so that your brake lights flash and clue in others behind you that you are slowing down or stopping. This is especially important if the driver behind you is driving fast and approaching quickly.

6. Try to anticipate the worst in others

It may sound cynical and 's not a good rule to follow in life but, in defensive driving, it pays to anticipate the mistakes of other drivers on the road. For instance, many drivers routinely signal a turn but don't turn at all. Meanwhile, others don't signal at all and then suddenly turn. Many people disregard stop signals or try to run red traffic lights so keep a watchful eye out for these instances.

Serg Caro. So, don't forget that a basic knowledge of Defensive Driving helps drivers substantially minimize risks on the road. Please feel free to ask questions concerning vehicle insurance at Car Insurance forum.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Serg_Caro

Get Paid To Drive? Try One of These Professional Driving Careers

Do you love, love, love to drive? If so, you may be interested in a career as a professional driver. The list includes quite a few opportunities and as long as you meet the requirements, e.g., have an excellent driving record, current license and pass any required testing, you’d be a good candidate. And in a lot the instances, you can actually start your own service company and be your own boss.

Limo Driver

Limo drivers are an especially good option for people who like people. They usually make a standard rate and when allowed, can also receive gratuities. Keep in mind that most limo drivers need to be ‘on-call’ and ready to roll at a moment’s notice and all are required to hold a special license. In addition to the usual prom, airport, wedding and events fares, there are also opportunities for ‘personal’ drivers who work specifically for one individual or firm. And if you ever decide to purchase you own limo, you obviously aren’t obligated to any one other than yourself, your customers and Uncle Sam.

Taxi-Cab Drivers

Because you never know who you’re going to get as a passenger, another driving profession that would probably be more pleasing to a ‘people person’ is a taxi cab driver. Taxi driving can be quite lucrative if you’re in a well populated area, and even more so if you own your own cab. Just know that the hours can tend to be very long and erratic. Also, a special license and registration is required for this type of driving.

Truck Drivers

The amount of opportunities for professional truck drivers has gone through the roof over the past few years – and they are pretty diversified as well. If you have the opportunity to drive a delivery or service industry truck, and especially if you’re considering the prospect of driving the ‘big rigs’, you will need to take a CDL certification test (different classes/levels depending on the job) obtain the required class of license and be willing to submit to period testing. Long-haul semi drivers usually benefit from a higher income than short-haul or delivery/service truck drivers, but have to be the type of person who is willing to be away from home for extended amounts of time, and on a regular basis.

Valet

Valet opportunities are mainly part-time as compared full-time. But if you are in the right place, you can make quite a pretty penny considering base pay and tips. A lot of younger valets sometimes think that this type of work is a free-for-all, but know that you will be completely responsible for the owner’s car when in your possession. In addition to the prospect of a good salary, you may also enjoy the diversity involved in the opportunity to drive different types of vehicles on a regular basis.

Auto-Auctions and Car Dealerships

A professional driving career can also be obtained by working through an auto auction or car dealership. The cars on these lots need to be moved around on a consistent basis and can provide the opportunity for diversity in the driving experience as well.

Race Car Driver

Now this is obviously a career that requires extensive training and outstanding skill. But if you’ve got the ‘right stuff’, you can do very well for yourself financially in addition to possibly obtaining a claim to fame. In addition to the high level of ability required, obtaining sponsorship is the other important aspect to moving forward in this career. Once a sponsor agrees to subsidize you, the driver will be required to represent that company or individual and of course be given the privilege of driving that corresponding race car.

Gray Rollins is a featured writer for PaidToDriveReview.com. If you're interested in learning more about getting paid to drive, then be sure to visit his site. If you're looking for other ways to make money, then you may want to visit MarketingEffects.com for some marketing lessons that can teach you more ways to make money.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gray_Rollins

Working With a Professional Driving School

When you are preparing for your UK driving test, the easiest way to do it is to combine lessons from a professional driving school with tuition from friends or family.

This will give you the experience you need on the road, as well as being the most cost-effective solution.

While learning from relatives can be cheaper, it can mean that you can pick up any bad habits they have developed through years of driving. It can also put a bit of strain on any relationships.

An instructor from a professional driving school is trained to recognise any weaknesses you may have in your driving. They are also experienced in coaching people to pass their test. In fact, as well as practical tips, a driving instructor will be able to offer advice for your theory and hazard perception tests.

Many professional driving schools offer a discount if you book blocks of lessons upfront. Simply put, the more lessons you book at once, the less it costs per lesson.

Further discounts are available for students preparing for their UK driving test.

Of course, before you take any driving lessons, you have to apply for your provisional driving licence.

You can do this by completing the D1 form, which is available from the DVLA or the local post office. You can also fill in the form online.

Once you have a valid provisional driving licence, you can sit the theory and hazard perception elements of the UK driving test, as well as book lessons from a professional driving school.

Whatever stage you are at, whether you are about to sit your driving test or you are a complete novice, you can get more advice that will help your driving.

Robert Yates is a highly experienced writer and motorist. He has written a wide range of articles about driving, answering many questions about professional driving schools.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Yates