It’s not easy being an HGV driver. Long hours on the road, away from family and friends, can take their toll. And with the ever-changing regulations and increasing pressure to meet deadlines, it can be a stressful job.
But it’s also a rewarding one. Seeing the country, meeting new people and delivering vital goods to businesses and homes up and down the country is something that many HGV drivers are proud of.
So, what does it really feel like to be an HGV driver?
Here are 10 things that will help you understand:
Table of Contents
1. The hours are long, but it’s not always easy to find a place to stop
HGV drivers are used to long hours on the road. In fact, it’s not uncommon to work 12-hour shifts. But what many people don’t realise is that it’s not always easy to find a place to stop and rest.
There are designated truck parks, but they can be few and far between. And when you do find one, it’s often full. This can mean driving for hours without a break, which can be both tiring and dangerous.
2. You have to be constantly aware of your surroundings
HGV drivers have to be constantly aware of their surroundings. They need to be aware of other vehicles, of pedestrians and any potential hazards on the road.
This can be a challenge, especially when driving in unfamiliar territory. But it’s something that HGV drivers have to do to ensure they stay safe on the road.
3. You need to plan your journey carefully
HGV drivers need to plan their journeys carefully. They need to take into account the route, the traffic, the weather and any potential delays.
This planning is essential to ensure that HGV drivers arrive at their destination on time. It’s also important to ensure that the HGV driver stays safe on the road.
4. You need to be patient
HGV drivers need to be patient. They often have to deal with traffic jams, delays and road closures. This can be frustrating, but it’s something that HGV drivers have to deal with on a daily basis.
5. You need to be able to deal with difficult situations
HGV drivers often have to deal with difficult situations. This could be anything from a breakdown to bad weather. HGV drivers need to be able to deal with these situations calmly and efficiently.
6. You need to be able to deal with people
HGV drivers often have to deal with people. This could be anything from other drivers to customers. HGV drivers need to be able to deal with these people calmly and efficiently.
7. You need to be able to keep your cool
HGV drivers often have to deal with stressful situations. This could be anything from a breakdown to bad weather. HGV drivers need to be able to keep their cool in these situations.
8. You need to be able to stay focused
HGV drivers often have to deal with long hours on the road. This can be both tiring and boring. HGV drivers need to be able to stay focused on the road ahead.
9. You need to be able to stay awake
HGV drivers may sometimes find it difficult to stay awake, especially after a long drive. This can be both tiring and boring. HGV drivers need to be able to stay awake during these long hours.
10. You need to be able to enjoy the job
HGV drivers often have to deal with loneliness on the road. But it’s also important that HGV drivers are able to enjoy the job. After all, it’s a rewarding job that helps to keep the country moving.
As an HGV driver, you can expect long hours on the road, early starts, and dealing with difficult weather conditions. However, the job is also very rewarding, as you get to see the country and meet new people.
If you’re thinking of becoming an HGV driver, make sure you’re prepared for the challenges that come with the job. HGV training courses can show you all the tricks of the trade and what it’s really like to be an HGV driver on the move.
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