First off, let me tip my hat figuratively to the honorable working class group known as truck drivers. These people keep this country moving and operating as it should with their dedication and hard work. Safety on the road is an even bigger concern as you must appreciate the size and weight of the vehicles they drive.

Truckers have the added fun of people in their cars racing around them, passing them in the wrong lane, and trying to wedge between them on the interstate along with the difficult task of driving an over-sized and often heavily loaded vehicle which requires brake checks and shifting to lower gears before going down long inclines. People, this is a huge calling all by itself.

Make truckers lives easier. Give them the right away. Move over when going down hill and you see them coming up fast behind you. Give them room to maneuver on the interstate. If you are passing a truck on the left, and both of you are coming up on a Sunday driver in the right lane, step on the gas and finish your pass so the trucker won't have to stomp on his brakes. If a trucker has just passed you and is signaling to get back in the right lane, flash your lights at him so he knows it is safe to move over. Usually, you'll get a couple of brake light flashes as a thank you in return. Most truckers are courteous with this.

These things will help make a truckers day go by a little easier. I'm sure we have all met up with a trucker a time or two. I drove with one for around 50 miles before we parted ways. If he was trapped in the right lane and traffic was getting on the interstate, I let him come over in front of me. If I was trapped, he kept a hole open for me to move into. We kept this up for the entire 50 miles, swapping who was in front, and when the trucker had to get off the interstate, we both waved bye to each other. I have never forgotten the camaraderie found on that trip and truckers will always have my respect and aid when needed.

Learn more about this author, H.G. Pennymore.
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