For women considering entering the trucking industry, there should be no reason why you will not succeed in this 
business. In the past female truck drivers like Lillie Drennan, testify to their success in this industry, by simply doing the “simple things right”.
Driving on the highways for a living is not as scary as you may think. Yes, there are safety concerns for all who share the road. But if you use common sense and good judgement, you’ll do just fine. However, safety when you’re off the highway is altogether different. This is where women have to be more attentive than men. And although, safety while away from your family and friends is important to all drivers, a recent study done by Cedar Rapids Steel Transport Van Expedited (CRST), one of the largest trucking companies in the U.S; shows that women truck drivers are vulnerable to violent physical attacks and in some case even rape. The disparaging fact is that in a lot of cases the perpetrators are truck driver trainers. We’ve mentioned some tips here that will help you stay safe while you enjoy your trucking career.
#1 Safe Parking in Truck Stops for Women
Don’t drive for more than the number of hours legally permitted. For starters, always try to pick truck stops that are open 24/7 if at all possible. Since there is generally not enough parking available for trucks, shut down a little early in order to find a safe spot. Chances of you driving those extra few hours and winding up in a small “mom and pop” truck stop that was closed or out of parking, is very high. If you are going to make a living driving trucks, it’s best to have the security of a place that is open for food and restrooms. This may not work all the time, but things don’t always go as planned. Stopping early may cost you a few miles each week but be willing to accept that trade off.
Also do not park in the back of the lot if the preferred spots in the front or middle are open, especially the ones that were next to the lights. Never, ever parked on the onramps!! If you drive for a big company, park next to the other company trucks. In my mind it will help if you know that your co-workers were parked right next to you. Also park as often as possible at your company’s terminals. Again, this may lower your mileage, but the trade-off is that parking is available along with food and clean showers. You can also get your truck serviced if need be.
Another thing important thing to keep in mind is to act and walk with confidence even though you may be shaking on the inside at certain truck stops. Generally you will find that most truckers stick together and want to help each other. Another tip that experienced woman drivers prescribe by is, besides locking the doors at all times, just take the passenger seat belt, put it through the door handle, and then fastened it. You can even do it with the driver’s door. This gives you the extra few seconds you need to act by blowing the horn and making lots of noise. An air horn going off at 2am is going to get a lot of attention, and likely bring help.
#2 What should you carry while in your Truck
Always carry some extra gallon jugs of water with you, you must stay hydrated. Paper towels and moist towelettes also came in handy for a quick cleaning. Also, always have snacks handy because you will sometimes either break down, be waiting for your load, or simply not have enough time to stop for a “grab and go.”
Another thing to remember is never be without a flashlight or boots and rain gear. There might be a drought where you are now, but you never know what awaits you up the road. Lastly, you need to keep your feet warm in the winter time with a good pair of boots. Tire thumper’s can prove extremely handy, along with a cell phone. Lastly remember to wear a whistle around your neck for more security, this can prove invaluable in the wrong circumstances.
For more on this topic, join expert speaker Jeena Hysell in a webinar that addresses the Safety of Female Truckers Over the Road. During this presentation, Jeena, who is a senior safety consultant for J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc., will provide safety strategies and measures that you should take to ensure the wellbeing of female truck drivers, when faced with a crisis while crossing national highways.
