“I got a bridge I’d like to sell you.”

It’s a phrase you’ve probably heard before, and not a very nice on either. Usually it’s something you say to a person when you want to tease them for being gullible. In full, it usually goes, “If you believe that, I got a bridge I’d like to sell you.”

Well, you just bought a bridge regardless of your gullibility. Or half a bridge anyway.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development just announced the signing of a new partnership to fund a 1-10 Calcasieu River Bridge in Lake Charles.

It’s going to cost $2.1 billion. The good news is $1.2 billion of that is already sewn up through state and federal funding sources. The bad news is the rest will be paid by tolls. And it’s not the kind of toll where all drivers are in this together. This is the kind of toll that says, “Truckers, this one is on you.”

Local cars only have to pay $.25. That’s right, a quarter. Regular cars pay $2.50. Okay, a little higher there. But large trucks? $8.25! Large trucks that lack a Toll Tag? $12.36.

In other words, we hope you enjoy your new bridge. You certainly paid for it.

The answer is yes, even if the answer is no.

Dear Truckers, Would You Like To Buy A Bridge?

Night driving is unavoidable for truck drivers. For some, driving at night is painless. Light traffic means open roads and fewer drivers to worry about. The sun isn’t a factor either, so there’s less glare and heat to worry about.

There are others who find night driving terrifying and unpleasant. If you find yourself in this category, here are a few tips to make your night driving experience less stressful.

We’re mostly concerned about windshields and headlights – you know, the two parts of the vehicle that affect your field of vision the most. A dirty windshield can scatter light and make the glare from oncoming headlights even worse. Conversely, dirty headlights can cast a glare on oncoming vehicles and decrease your overall visibility at night. Additionally, a clean vehicle is a happy vehicle!

Knowing when to properly use your high beams is important for both you and other drivers on the road. In urban areas, where there are well lit streets and highways, it’s rare you’ll need to use your high beams. Odds are, other drivers are also driving these stretches of road, and using your high beams can temporarily impair their vision. In less lit areas with no traffic to worry about, high beams may be appropriate.

It’s dark out there, so it’s a little harder to see beyond the beams of your headlights. There may be obstructions in the road; there may be a deer or two in the ditch about to cross; there also might be a pothole just waiting to ruin your suspension’s night. Driving slower gives you a few extra moments to slow down or stop when a surprise lurks in the distance (plus, it’s easier to spot a patrol car hiding in the dark).

Yes, you should always keep your phone off while driving. You should also always keep your eyes on the road. It isn’t a bad idea, either, to turn your music or audiobook down just a hair. Your reaction time in the dark is slower than it is in the light, so it’s best to keep any distractions to a minimum for safer driving. Night driving requires more focus than in the day, so keeping your attention on the road is always the best practice.

Don’t be a hero by driving past the point of exhaustion. Like we said, night driving requires more focus than in the day; if you’re struggling to stay awake, your focus will definitely diminish. Driving tired doesn’t just put you at risk but other drivers, as well. Stop if you need to, and rest up before getting back on the road.

keeping things safe after the sun goes down

5 Tips For Driving At Night

Semi-trucks were not designed to go very fast. Believe it or not, they were designed with hauling freight in mind – isn’t that mind-boggling? They can pull loads of impressive weight, but they can’t zip down the interstate at impressive speeds.

Is it possible that someone can replace a truck’s guts with a more powerful engine and turn it into ten tons of speed and fury? Imagine cruising the open plains, not another vehicle in sight, before abruptly being dusted by one of these beasts. Surely you’d feel its horsepower shaking the earth miles in advance.

Fortunately, you won’t see all of these trucks on the open road (the really fast ones, at least). But they do exist, they do go very fast, and yes – they have tremendously powerful engines.

The Hot Streak II is super fast. Reaching a top speed of 333 miles per hour, Hot Streak II is the youngest sibling of the jet truck family. Its two Westinghouse J34 jet engines generate 25,000 horsepower and produce streaks of fire exceeding 50 feet.

The Original Jet Truck was the first of the jet truck family (duh). A single J79 jet engine – built for the F4 Phantom fighter jet – is at the heart of the Original Jet Truck. It comes in third on this list after hitting 234 miles per hour. Unlike Shockwave and Super Shockwave, the Original Jet Truck has since retired after decades of blistering runs.

You don’t need a jet engine to make a truck go fast, and the Volvo Iron Knight is a prime example. Built with speed in mind, the Iron Knight has exceeded speeds of 170 miles per hour, and its 13-liter diesel engine generates 2,400 horsepower. While you won’t see any of the jet trucks on the road, the Iron Knight is street legal and can tow 325 tons.

Before the Iron Knight broke speed records, its predecessor – the Mean Green – held the honor for fastest conventional semi-truck. Its hybrid diesel and electric engine generates 2,100 horsepower and helps the Mean Green reach speeds of up to 141 miles per hour.

4 Fastest Trucks On Wheels

Board games are perfect for boredom at home. They’re also perfect for any downtime at a stop between days of travel. If you and a travel partner need something to fill a few minutes of time, perhaps a board game would suffice.

Without deferring to the likes of traditional two-player games, such as chess, checkers, and Connect Four, here are a few choices to consider when looking for a game.

– the board game – requires player cooperation to defeat a handful of deadly viruses. Each player chooses a character, and each character has a unique role used to defeat the diseases. If a disease spreads beyond recovery, the players lose; if the diseases are conquered before they spread out of control, the players win.

the board game is almost identical to Watergate the scandal. This time, however, history can be rewritten. In this two-player game, a Washington Post Journalist must find enough evidence to connect two informants to President Richard Nixon; if successful, the player representing the journalist wins. For the President to win, though, the player must erase all evidence connecting him to the informants.

Enter a boardless-board game that’s highly addictive and worthy of recognition anyway. Find a flat surface and use the game pieces to try and surround your opponent’s queen piece. Your opponent will be doing the same thing, so it’s important to keep your queen protected. The pieces are never eliminated and not all have to be played during the game.

This trick-taking game is compact in size and perfect for travel. Aside from suited and normal-ranked cards, the game’s fairy character cards have unique abilities that let you bend the game’s rules. Points are scored by winning more tricks than your opponent.

Work together with a partner to reveal the identity of fifteen agents before time runs out! Be careful not to reveal the identity of the assassin, as both players will automatically lose if you do so. Give one word clues to your partner to try and guess the identity of your agents before it’s too late.

stave off BOARDom on the open road (not while you're driving of course)

5 Great On-The-Road Board Games For Your Team

We all use at least a little trucker CB lingo. Even if you don’t know where it came from, most people will understand what you mean if you hit them with a “10-4” or “Copy that”. These terms entered the wider lexicon thanks to movies like 

 and some of them never left, even if their origin got lost in the shuffle of time.

Others, however, have fallen to obscurity. Not just among four-wheelers either (four-wheeler means car, by the way). Even among drivers, it’s not a given your CB response will land given the overall decline of CB usage in general.

Here at Drive18 we consider this a shame. For drivers and four-wheelers alike, some terms deserve a return to public consciousness due to their colorful nature, condensed wit, and unique perspective. We’ve compiled five of the best candidates for a resurgence.

This is the term you use when you see a car driving like an insane person. Lane jumping, speeding, passing on hills… you know what kind of driving we’re talking about. Someone is either drunk or unacquainted with the concept of consequence. Such behavior is nearly certain to attract police attention, almost like bait. Clearly, “bear” means cop, which opens up a whole universe of fun phrases all by itself.

The term “bear” comes from the original term “smokey bear” which then branched off to both “bear” and “smokey”.

“Kojak” on the other hand is a bit more straightforward. This lingo for “cop” is a direct reference to Telly Savalas’ long running television cop character Kojak. The Kodak is a reference to a popular camera film brand. Put them together and you have a warning to other drivers: “Hey, there’s a cop with a radar gun nearby.”

This one is more or less self-explanatory. It’s just a colorful way to tell someone you hope they don’t get in a wreck. Since most truck wrecks end up on the extreme side, it feels especially applicable to those in big rigs. But that doesn’t mean you can’t say it to those in cars either. We all say “Drive safe” to loved ones. Why not throw this phrase in every once in a while as well?

This is a great term for when someone has a headlight out. Try it. “You got a blackball” is infinitely more fun to say than “You got a headlight out”. People might not know what you’re talking about but that’s their problem.

Another simple one, this phrase refers to a 55mph speed limit. Maybe the most infuriating speed limit out there (neck-and-neck with the dreaded 25), it makes sense that 55mph would garner its very own bit of truck jargon. The meaning is pretty simple. A nickel is five cents. Put two nickels together and you have 55 cents. Wait… the math on that might be faulty.

In any case, good luck to all those forced to run double nickel routes. You may be tempted to drive like bear bait, but you never know if a kojak with a kodak is up ahead. You already have a blackball, anyway. Best to keep the shiny side up and not test fate any more than you already have.

How To Talk Like A Trucker

We all love monster trucks. It basically goes without saying. How can one remain unimpressed when witnessing an absurdly gigantic vehicle jump over a row of cars? You can’t!

So it seems like a no-brainer to marry the world of commercial trucks and monster trucks. Does that mean someone designed a 50-foot tall truck that can tow soybeans across the lower-50? No. It means someone designed a 50-foot-tall truck that can smash cars while also towing a trailer. As a species we’re still not crazy enough to put one of these bad boys to work on the open road.

As the video makes clear, Big Pete is a monster truck that also has a monster trailer, the first of its kind. Will it take over the trucking market instead of electric vehicles? Probably not. But will it be fun to watch smash cars? Ab-so-lutely.

Meet Big Pete, The World’s First Monster Truck & Trailer

AAA, you know, the people you call when you get a flat tire on the interstate, recently conducted their Traffic Safety Culture Index survey in which folks described their own driving habits. The results are dire but probably not a surprise to any truck driver.

Apparently only four out of ten drivers out there practice safe driving habits. Maybe you think even THAT’s high. Well, you are likely correct. That four out of ten figure relies on self-reported dings on a driver’s safety. In other words, the person had to take the survey with enough self-awareness to admit they have, for instance, a horrible speeding issue. Unfortunately, being a bad driver and knowing you’re a bad driver are often mutually exclusive.

Even getting that out of the way, it’s sobering to know at least six out of ten drivers out there are dangerous. AAA has broken their bad behavior into categories ranging from speeders, to drunks, to distracted drivers. Of those, most admit to speeding, largely because many people don't consider it bad driving.

What we’re really trying to say is, no you’re not crazy. But also: Be careful!

It’s Not Your Imagination. Other Drivers Really ARE Bad

Though we do have a whole week each year dedicated to trucker appreciation, it’s easy to see why many truckers feel the public at large has a negative feeling about their profession. If only based on, you know, how the public at large drives.

But it turns out, people like truckers. A lot.

CloudTrucks just conducted a survey with over 2,000 respondents that examines American attitudes toward truckers. The results are a lot more positive than you might expect. 

When asked “Do you believe truck drivers play a crucial role in our economy?” 80% said yes. Let’s not focus on the 20% of folks who looked at that question and said, “nah” and focus on the win instead.

People also seem aware of how difficult it is to drive around four-wheelers. 40% of respondents agreed that truckers have to deal with unsafe or aggressive driver behavior. That doesn’t sound like a lot but when you add the 38% who said they encounter that problem 

, you’re now dealing with nearly 80% of people who acknowledge the issue. Again, we do apparently have a stubborn 20% out there who just want to cause trouble. So watch out.

. Their version is very fancy with many beautiful graphs, if that’s your sort of thing.

Believe It Or Not, America Loves Its Truck Drivers

Truckers typically enjoy experiences normal people would never even dream of. Sleeping in parking lots, working out on the open road, chatting over CB radios (okay, maybe less of that these days)… it’s not just a job – it’s a whole different world

And then there are niche trucking scenarios even normal truckers would find alien. One of those is remote Alaskan trucking, where you’re more likely to see bears than humans. While this sector of the trucking industry was made famous by the show 

, that isn’t the whole story. Even in Alaska, summers get too warm for ice roads to remain viable year-round. So in the warmer months, an already unique job gets even more particular.

FreightWaves reporter Rachel Premack recently published 

 of a ride-along she took from Anchorage, Alaska all the way up to the “man camp” oil camps in Deadhorse, taking her well into the Arctic circle.

On the way, she learns about the daily workload these drivers endure. Spoiler: it’s a whole different ballgame up there. You’ll be surprised by the remote conditions, the bathroom solutions, and the Alaskan HOS (hours of service) demands.

. It’s a bit of a long read, but that just makes it all the more informative and interesting. Grab a cup of coffee and dive in!

What’s It Like To Be An Ice Road Trucker… In The Summer?

If your route happens to take you through Wyoming on I-80, get ready to celebrate.

On September 20, the Wyoming Department of Transportation will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony that’ll mark the completion of Interstate 80 Winter Freight/BUILD, a project filled with features that should make truckers happy.

The project primarily aims to give truckers safe areas to rest during winter storms and other road closures. That comes through in various ways. At the Quealy Dome and Fort Steele Rest Area (mile marker 228), it means 200 new parking spaces.

New truck climbing lanes, which allow four-wheelers to get around trucks easier on steep inclines, can be found at Halleck Ridge between mile markers 279 and 281, westbound.

The project also includes twelve miles of wildlife fencing and over six miles of pavement preservation overlay.

WYDOT paid for the project with a federal BUILD grant aided by a state match. The total project budget was $34 million.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at the Quealy Dome truck parking lot (I-80 mile marker 290) September 20 at 10am.

Wyoming To Unveil A Bevy Of I-80 Improvements For Truckers

Despite its chaotic and non-stop nature, life on the road can be an appealing prospect. For some, the long journeys are worth the struggles they may bring. Every day brings new challenges, whether they reap pain or pleasure.

There are others who disagree and elect for a career behind a desk, in a factory, or elsewhere. Occasionally though, a trucker’s journey ends behind the camera or microphone. Their names become household, and their legacies get cemented in pop culture.

Before these stars shined bright, they operated big rigs as truckers.

After studying pre-medicine at Bard College in New York, Chase hopped around the work world; for a short time, he found himself in trucking. By the 1970s, his career transitioned into show business, where he earned a spot in the inaugural 

 cast. By the 1980s, Chase found tremendous success in film, starring in the 

Connery’s career in acting took off after landing the role of British secret agent James Bond in 

, but the Scottsman had a full resume before the big screen. Like his father, Connery worked as a lorry driver, among many other jobs, before eventually finding his way to fame. The talented actor even had the opportunity to pursue a career in professional soccer (we think he made the right call, though).

First a forklift operator for Guinness, the 

 star soon found himself driving trucks in Northern Ireland before pivoting to a career in teaching. This proved to be a short-term solution, as Neeson’s passion for acting landed him gigs in the local theater scene. It was here that director John Boorman discovered Neeson, giving him his first high-profile role in the 1981 film 

After dropping out of California State University, Cameron started driving trucks to fund his dreams of becoming a screenwriter. His ambitions soon grew, and in 1984 Cameron wrote and directed the sci-fi thriller 

, both of which smashed box office records.

While recording his first tracks at Sun Records in Memphis, Presley made ends meet as a truck driver at an electric company. In fact, he was told to stick to trucking because his voice wasn’t cut for the music industry. Two decades in music and film later, it’s pretty obvious Elvis was right to ignore that. Remember: not all advice is good advice (take it from the King of Rock and Roll).

5 Famous Ex-Truck Drivers

The United States’ expansive highway system offers unique and stunning scenery from coast-to-coast. Whether it’s snow-capped mountains, sandy beaches, red deserts, or rolling hills and valleys, there’s no shortage of variety for travelers to enjoy.

These driver-friendly views don’t always come with driver-friendly roads, though. Unpredictable weather, sharp turns, steep inclines, and deep drop-offs can make driving these roads stressful. Instead of taking in the landscapes, you’re laser-focused on the road, eager to find safer passage.

If you find yourself navigating these roads, we suggest you buckle up and be prepared for a nerve-wracking drive.

This 25-mile stretch of Highway 550 cuts through the Colorado Rockies in the southwestern region of the state. You’ll climb three of the highest mountain passes in North America and experience breathtaking views of the peaks, valleys, and waterways in the Rockies. We suggest taking this stretch slow – very slow. Sharp turns, missing shoulders, and missing guardrails can make traversing the Million Dollar Highway a costly venture.

A scenic route in Glacier National Park, Going-to-the-Sun Road winds through the western Colorado Rockies. You’ll reach an elevation of 6,646 feet on this 50-mile stretch through the park – if you can even start the journey. Heavy snow makes the two lane road impassable from late fall to early spring. Turns are sharp and the road is narrow, meaning vehicles over a certain length can’t pass.

Built as a supply road for oil fields, the 414-mile-long Dalton Highway is one of the northernmost roads on the planet. It’s cold. It’s isolated. The roads are icy and steep, and that’s before you get into the frequent snowstorms and avalanches. Only a portion of the road is actually paved, so you will literally traverse ice roads and frozen tundras. It’s recommended you bring survival gear, especially for the 200+ mile stretch without restaurants, hotels, or gas.

Carved into the Superstition Mountains, this 39-mile route is surrounded by a beautiful desert landscape. Roaring rivers and rolling hills on the drive are hard to take your eyes off of – not a great combo with narrow roads, steep drop offs, and infrequent guardrails. It’s mostly unpaved and travelers are encouraged to take the route very slow and carefully. Make sure to watch out for other drivers, as well!

Although only a couple miles in length, Chesapeake Bay Bridge has been dubbed one of the scariest bridges in America. It’s narrow, almost 400 feet tall, has low guardrails, and sits over a large body of water. There’s even a shuttle service that takes travelers over the bridge – how fun is that?

you won't find relaxing, scenic drives on these roads

5 Roads To Watch Out For

Spending a day behind the wheel will run your tank empty (and probably your gas tank, too). Nothing beats finding a spot for you and your rig to unwind for the night, but not just any place will do. One bad experience at a stop can wreck your trip. On the other hand, a great experience can do wonders. If you happen to catch a glimpse of these truck stops on your route, we highly suggest taking a night to enjoy what they have to offer.

There’s a reason it’s dubbed the “World’s Largest Truck Stop.” Open 24/7, Iowa 80 is host to eight restaurant choices, a barber shop, a chiropractor, a workout room, and so much more. If you’re concerned about space, don’t worry – with 900 truck parking spots, Iowa 80 is sure to have a place for you!

Private showers, free wifi, and fifteen acres of lighted, paved parking provide weary travelers a comfortable place to rest. In need of entertainment? The Ponderosa Lounge is the spot for live music, and the newly renovated Jubitz Cinema provides a perfect place to take in a movie. If close, don’t pass up the opportunity to visit the largest truck stop in the Pacific Northwest!

Dystart’s Restaurant and Truck Stop, Hermon, ME

Family-owned and operated, Dystart’s is more than just a truck stop. After you’ve parked your rig, head over to the Dystart’s Restaurant, where you’ll find all-day breakfast, homemade bread, large portions, and friendly service. If you love the feel of a small community, Dystart’s is the perfect place to unwind.

Kenly 95 is the largest truck stop on the East Coast. With 350 parking spots for trucks, there’s plenty of room to kick back your feet after a day of travel. Be sure to check out the Trucker Jamboree, hosted annually in early May, if you get a chance to visit.

In addition to its full-service truck stop plaza, Johnson’s Corner serves up old-fashioned, home-style cooking at its restaurant and bakery. While your rig sits tight in their overnight parking, dig into a Johnson’s Corner world-famous cinnamon roll, made fresh in-store.

5 Best Truck Stops In America

New Mexico truckers beware, there’s a new law in town that will affect you and the way you drive through the Land of Enchantment.

Last week, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lynn Lujan Grisham signed Senate Bill 102 into law, which states trucks must drive in the right-hand lane, except to pass slower vehicles. Violations of the law will incur a fine of up to $250, not to mention the overall hassle of being pulled over in the first place.

The law aims to alleviate traffic congestion while also increasing driving safety on the highway. But like all things, it is sure to raise some controversy.

Controversial or not, it’s now a law. But you still have a little time to cruise the left lane. The law does not go into effect until July 1 of this year.

Driving Through New Mexico? Stay Out Of The Left Lane

When you drive for a living, accidents are bound to happen. You may ding your rig on the road; someone may even ding your rig while you’re parked for the night. If you escape your career without having to report an accident to insurance, we think you’re pretty lucky.

As the saying goes, though, you’re better safe than sorry. Unfortunately, there isn’t a device that prevents accidents from ever happening, but you can protect yourself from scams and false stories with a dash cam. If you don’t have one, we think you’ll find your first camera below.

Top notch 4k resolution on both the front-facing and rearview camera guarantee crystal-clear video quality. Easily read license plates and road signs at night with the F7N’s Super Night Vision. Connect your smartphone to the camera and use its built-in wifi to easily manage video files. List price: $199.99.

With wide angle cameras on both the front (170*) and rear (140*), Wolfbox D07 offers excellent range to cover blind spots. Its built-in wifi and GPS precisely tracks your speed and allows for easy management of your video files. Wolfbox’s dual parking monitoring system allows for custom recording options when away from your vehicle. List price: $199.99.

Record videos in the light and in the night up to a resolution of 2160 pixels. Built-in wifi and GPS will accurately record your speed and location and connect your devices to the camera. The Rove R2-4k comes with state-of-the-art technology such as motion detection, loop cycle recording, slow-mo video, and so much more. Listing price: $119.99.

The Nexar Beam is easily concealable and can fit perfectly behind your rearview mirror. Its 135-degree wide range and 1080p quality allow for a clear view of the road. Pair your phone to the Nexar Beam using the Nexar app to easily access, share, and manage your recordings. Listing price: $139.95.

Equipped with 1080p resolution, the Chortau B-T12 has a front- and rear-facing camera with exceptional range. If an accident occurs while you’re parked, the camera will automatically turn on and record as soon as impact is detected. Record up to 32 GB of data using the Chortau B-T12. Listing price: $99.99.

there's more than one way to keep yourself safe on the road

5 Best Dash Cams On The Market Today

It may be difficult to believe, but a Republican (Dusty Johnson from South Dakota) and a Democrat (Jim Costa from California) have united to introduce a bill that would greatly aid truckers across the country. Cleverly known as SHIP IT – aka Safer Highways and Increased Performance for Interstate Trucking – the bill would alleviate trucking woes from several different directions.

New drivers would be eligible for a $10,000 tax credit. Eligible drivers who log over 1,900 hours of on-duty time could be eligible for a $7,500 tax credit.

The bill would also allow Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act grants that can be applied to entry-level driver training costs including fees, tuition, course materials, and training costs.

The bill aims to streamline the entire CDL-A testing process, which should make it easier for students to take the test, and for states and third parties to actually administer it.

And finally, the bill would authorize both states and private agencies access to grants specifically to build new truck parking or expand existing truck parking, helping to ameliorate one of the biggest issues in trucking today.

Of course, this has a long way to go before becoming the law of the land, but it’s nice that our elected officials have truckers on their minds at all and the bipartisan nature of its debut feels especially encouraging.

We’ll keep our ears to the road on this as it (hopefully) develops further.

New House Bill Aims To Ease Trucker Woes

If you’re constantly hitting the road, it’s difficult finding time to hit the gym. Staying in shape is integral to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. You wouldn't deprive your rig of maintenance, so why not treat your body the same? 

Frequent exercise keeps the mind and body sharp, but you don’t need a full set of equipment to stay at the top of your game. Start off your day – or cap the night – with a few of these simple, yet effective, exercises.

Cardio’s benefits extend well beyond burning fat and calories. Improve your sleep, blood pressure, and immune system with a light jog or walk every day. There’s no better time to clear your mind and stretch your legs out, either. You could even take the opportunity to see the sights around your destination.

Build and strengthen your lower body with a healthy dose of air squats. This exercise targets a handful of muscles in your legs, including your glutes, quads, and hamstrings. Your squat depth is important; a 90-degree knee angle is a good number to shoot for (don’t be afraid to go a little deeper).

In their standard form, push-ups will strengthen your chest and back. A number of variations exist, such as the diamond push-up and wide stance push-up, that target different muscles. Similar to air squats, a 90-degree angle at your elbows is a standard to aim for. Add a brief pause at the top to engage your core!

A solid core will keep your body stable and improve your balance. Crunches and sit-ups include the same technique, but the form and muscles targeted differ. Crunches isolate your abs, while sit-ups exercise muscles in your hips and legs as well. Our recommendation: whichever suits you – there is no wrong answer!

Lunges are a nice resistance exercise that will strengthen your legs, core, and back. Keeping your back straight and bending your knees to a 90-degree angle ensures better results and prevents injury. Engaging your core will help keep your back straight.

It is recommended that you get at least thirty minutes of exercise a day, five days a week. How you break up these workouts is totally your call! We also recommend getting in a nice stretch before and after exercising to prevent injuries and cramps. For best results, a healthy diet and plenty of sleep are also heavily encouraged!

5 Ways To Stay In Shape On The Road

We don’t work for Sheetz, nor do we produce sponsored content. Rather, we simply consider ourselves heralds of good news. And today brings some very good news indeed.

As of today (January 10, 2023), Sheetz will be offering a 50¢ diesel fuel discount that will last until the end of the month. No, you didn’t misread. That’s a full 50¢ diesel fuel discount through the rest of January.

The move seems to be their way of saying Happy New Year. Happy New Year indeed, especially for owner-operators who happen to be crossing paths with a Sheetz this month!

Sheetz Diesel Discounted 50¢ Until End Of January

Truck driving is an essential profession, and drivers are currently in very high demand. Perhaps you’ve considered filling a driving vacancy yourself.

But before you get behind the wheel of a truck, you’ll need a special commercial driver’s license known as the CDL-A, which requires special schooling to obtain and can be quite expensive.

Without any assistance, paying for a CDL program can run students anywhere between $1,000-$8,000. Pricing is mostly determined by license type, available equipment, school location, and obtained endorsements. It isn’t usually based on the school’s quality or reputation.

Luckily, that price can be reduced significantly – in some cases entirely – depending on where you get your education and how you choose to finance it. When it comes to entering the lucrative world of truck driving, your options are as limitless as the horizon.

If awarded a grant or scholarship – whether it be from the government or school you choose to attend – the cost for your CDL will be covered in some capacity. Some grants and scholarships may cover your tuition entirely. 

The Workforce Development Grant, for example, is geared towards students learning a new job skill. It allows them to earn their certification or degree without having to pay the price of tuition. Pell Grants are also usually available to students in need of financial aid who have not earned a degree of any kind.

Scholarships operate similarly to grants and can be awarded by the government, a school, or a third-party provider. In order to receive any aid from the government, though, students must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

If scholarships or grants are difficult to obrtain, loans offer a reliable alternative. Loans help cover the cost of your schooling, but unlike grants and scholarships, you have to pay them back.

In order to receive a loan from the federal government, students need to fill out a FAFSA form. Taking out personal loans typically requires a good credit rating.

Going the community college/vocational school route offers flexibility for drivers after earning their CDL license. They’ll have greater freedom of choice when deciding where they would like to work. Unfortunately, this path can be expensive if aid is not available.

The alternative to community college and vocational school is a company sponsored school or training program. These schools are specifically for truck drivers, usually run by a trucking company.

These company-sponsored programs are the safest option for drivers wanting to earn a CDL without incurring any debt. Some schools do require you pay back tuition following your training completion, but you’ll be on the road driving solo by then; other companies may pay a driver during the training process.

Students who attend a company-run school sign a contract before attending, guaranteeing they’ll work with the company running the program. These contracts usually require drivers to work at that company for a year or less.

When deciding on where to obtain your CDL license, consider how committed you are to the profession. Paying all by yourself or taking out a loan will put a hole in your pocket, especially if you discover this career isn’t a viable option. A company-run school may feel like a blessing, but you may realize you’d rather work for someone else after getting your license. Do your research and consider your options before making a decision.

New Year, New Career: How To Finally Get That CDL-A

Christmas gift-giving is a stressful endeavor, especially if your loved one is a trucker. Don’t worry, though. We have you covered.

Spare yourself (or someone else) the trouble of sweating through a gift idea for the trucker in your life. Look no further than the following guide to help nail down the perfect present.

Sitting at the wheel for hours on end doesn’t exactly do wonders for your back, neck, tailbone, or hips. Beyond the adverse effects on your health, sitting for long periods of time is uncomfortable, especially if you’re relying on a seat that's as stiff as concrete. Getting a new seat for a truck is crazy expensive; instead of breaking the bank, there are plenty of seat cushions that do the trick for far less. This cushion from 

provides excellent lumbar support and tailbone comfort.

Buying toppers for rigid, uncomfortable seats is in season. You really thought we were done with the seat cushion? Let us introduce you to our friend, the mattress topper. This memory foam topper from 

 provides excellent comfort with its body-conforming material. Like a new seat, getting a brand new mattress is expensive – with this mattress topper, it’s now unnecessary.

If a normal blanket doesn’t fit the bill, there exists a blanket with added heated technology – the heated blanket. This revolutionary piece of comfort does exactly what its name suggests, making it a must-buy for cold nights on the road. This blanket from 

is made from thick sherpa fabric and has five heat settings. It also comes in five different colors (for those who prioritize style).

We all love a good sunset – except when we’re driving and the orange glow blinds our vision. The same can be said about a gorgeous sunrise, or even when the sun is overhead at high noon. Regardless of its position, when the sun is up, it’s difficult to see. Instead of letting a ball of gas ninety million miles away win, snag this three pack of polarized sunglasses from 

and block out the sun’s harmful UV rays. You’ll see the road better, you’ll look better, you’ll be happier, and you’ll have two spare pairs just in case. It’s a win-win-win-win.

You’ve made it this far down the list, which either means you still don’t know what to get someone or you’re curious; either way, let us tell you about the gift of all gifts: the gift card. If you ever need an “out” and can’t decide what to get someone, it’s nearly impossible to fail with a bouquet of gift cards. Do they have a favorite restaurant? You can bet there’s a gift card for that. What about a favorite retailer? There’s probably a gift card for that, too! They’ve even made prepaid gift cards that can be used anywhere. The gift card game is in its golden age, and we’re living it.

the best christmas gifts for the driver in your life

5 Christmas Gifts For Truck Drivers

There aren’t many drivers who prefer harsh weather conditions over good. Rain, sleet, snow, ice, winds, you name it – when you’re behind the wheel and Mother Nature is angry, you probably are, too.

The elements make driving tougher and more stressful. Accidents occur more frequently and normally good drivers make split-second decisions based on poor judgment. It’s hard to see, it’s hard to steer, and it’s hard to keep your cool.

With a few pointers, though, you’ll find that driving in bad weather doesn’t have to be a major  challenge. Here is our advice for driving through different kinds of conditions.

Driving in the rain is unavoidable, so it will be something you should get used to. That doesn’t mean driving in the rain is easy. Wet road conditions can be slick and dangerous. Intersections – where oil and other car fluids mix with the rain – can be especially slick. Slowing down on wet roads can greatly decrease the risk of hydroplaning and crashing. Frequently replacing your wipers ensures your windshield and visibility will keep clear during a rainstorm.

Driving through snow is dangerous, but the chances of spinning out, getting stuck, or wrecking can be slimmed if you focus on the little things. You’ll want to drive slower than you would if the roads were clear. This means coming to a stop will require a little extra thought, too; breaking immediately might cause your wheels to lock up and your vehicle to spin out. Instead, apply light pressure to the breaks from further out to give yourself time to stop. Always remain cautious near bridges, overpasses, and tunnels, as they can freeze before other areas of the road.

While it may seem similar, driving on ice and driving on snow are two different beasts. Ice – especially black ice – can be hard to see on roadways. If you find yourself on icy roads, it’s best to take it slow – very slow. Any jolting of the steering wheel, sudden breaking, or sudden acceleration can cause you to slide off the road or into other vehicles. Our biggest advice for this one? Avoid icy roads if you can!

The biggest threats while driving in fog are your surroundings. Your visibility is greatly impaired, and it is difficult to see other drivers, road signs, or obstructions in the road. Take it slow and increase your following distance to avoid collisions with vehicles in front of you. Make sure your headlights are on – not just your daytime running lights. Never use your high beams in fog; your headlights are enough to keep you and your surroundings visible.

Vehicles with a high profile – ahem, semi-trucks and trailers – aren’t ideal for driving in high-winds. Violent gusts can knock you and your freight around with ease. Slow your driving down and be sure to take turns extra slow. High winds may blow objects into the road, so it’s best to keep your eye out for anything that could do damage to your vehicle.

5 Tips For Bad Weather Driving

There’s no denying the importance of a music playlist for the road. It sets the tone for the journey ahead. Will you sing along with pride? Will you listen closely without belting out a single lyric? Maybe it will keep you focused and alert. Some prefer organization, whether it’s listening to a single genre or band; others prefer chaos– different sounds, tempos, and moods. Ultimately, you can do no wrong.


Perhaps, as a trucker, you're in search of songs about trucking and the open road. We’ve taken the liberty to find a couple of those hits for you. If they’re on your playlist or not, we suggest giving these tunes a listen on your travels.

In the country genre, Terry Fell’s “Truck Drivin’ Man” was covered by Glen Campbell, Willie Nelson, Toby Keith, and the J. Geils Band, just to name a few. Fortunately for connoisseurs of songs about truck drivin’ men – who also crave a little variety – Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Truck Drivin’ Man” isn’t a cover of Terry Fell’s original country hit. This southern rock demo released after the band’s tragic plane crash follows a truckin’ man doing the best he can to “drive hard, dodge them scales, and dodge the man.”

Originally written in 1959 by Australian songwriter Geoff Mack, “I’ve Been Everywhere” has since been covered by the likes of Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash. Instead of singing about Tullamore, Lismore, and Seymore, Cash uses names more familiar to an American audience, such as Reno, Chicago, and Fargo. In either case, “I’ve Been Everywhere” is an anthem for truckers who’ve burnt rubber on more than a few highways.

It wouldn’t be right for this list not to include Jason Aldean, who started off behind the wheel of a semi before ascending to country music fame. This 2005 track is perhaps more personal than any other on this list. Truckers with loved ones experience the loneliness of the road knowing they’ve left family at home, and the asphalt cowboy is no different. He is on a ride that feels permanent but is motivated by memories of his wife to get back home.

“Eastbound and Down” spent 16 weeks on the U.S. country music charts, reaching as high as number two. The lyrics follow the plot of the movie, where a trucker embarks on a round trip from Atlanta to Texarkana and back to transport hundreds of cases of beer. Maybe you’ve heard the sign off “eastbound and down” or any variation of the direction, on your radio; believe it or not, that was inspired by this song!

This Alabama hit ascended to the top of the Hot Country Singles chart and tells the story of a trucker who drives an OTR semi to support his family. The song is anything but ordinary from there, as the family loses connection with the father on one of his runs. Fearing his truck was involved in a crash, they are delighted to discover he is alive and well after a long trip on the road.

5 Songs About Truckers & The Road

Have you ever wondered how your friends and loved ones might fare while living the trucking life? Forget the long hours, frustration with four-wheelers, or even hours of service headaches… Could they manage the basic reality of sleeping in a truck?


A reporter from Jalopnik gave it a shot and the results were… pretty positive! Granted, he’s in a rather fancy Volvo, and spending the night in a truck parked by your apartment is a lot different than being stuck half a country away from home.


Nevertheless, the guy really seems to have a good time. Now let’s see how he does after two weeks of not having a bathroom.

WATCH: A Civilian Finds Out What It’s Like To Sleep In A Big Rig

It’s hard enough to drive on a regular road, but daily irritations like traffic and road closures are nothing compared to driving through a huge underground cave.

Luckily, most of us won’t have to face this challenge. For those curious what it would look like, popular YouTube user Chad Rich has created a great video tour of his trip through this cavernous wonder. It may make you a bit claustrophobic (especially considering GPS doesn’t work down there), but just repeat to yourself “It’s only a video… It’s only a video.”

Springfield’s underground cave system features 224 dock doors on over three miles of roadway and takes up 3.2 million square feet of space.

you do not want to run out of gas down here

Take A Trucking Tour Through Springfield’s Massive Cave System

The world of truck driving brings with it a world of unknowns. Every day and every run is different from the last. Perhaps you’ve experienced a run full of stories you can’t tell enough. Maybe those anecdotes are so fantastic and unbelievable that they belong on the big screen.