Not Just a TRUCKER, a PROFESSIONAL
pro• fes• sion• al

1. a: of, relating to, or characteristic of a profession b: engaged in one of the learned professions c: characterized by or conforming to the technical or ethical standards of a profession
2. exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace
3. following a line of conduct as though it were a profession
4. the conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a profession or a professional person

As with most professions, Truck Drivers subscribe to an unwritten code of ethical conduct that does not exist within the pages of any written manual or policy book. To the outside world it is hardly even recognizable. A simple nod or glance exchanged between two “Knights of the Road” acknowledging an understanding of the difficulties and challenges present each day is all the reassurance needed to persevere.

A professional driver has the undaunted task of wearing a multitude of hats and interacts with a never-ending spectrum of challenges ranging from interaction with four wheelers to acting as a customer service liaison and even safety director.

The one prevailing constant is the attitude and values that must be placed above everything else. A professional driver must accept that:
  · “Safety is an Attitude.
  · Must believe that time spent completing a post/pre-trip inspection saves lives and down time.
  · Must be willing to measure each and every load.
  · Must believe that only through proper speed management can you acquire the space to safely maneuver the truck.
  · Must believe that space management is critical to the safe operation of the truck.
  · Must acknowledge that night driving and adverse weather conditions require additional caution, attributes and skills.
  · Must be willing to obey state and federal regulations.
  · Must be willing to accept responsibility.
  · Must be willing to demonstrate and maintain self-control.


Very few, if any of us would tolerate an act of unprofessionalism that placed the life, health and physical ability of a family member in jeopardy. Yet each day ATS is involved in an accident or incident that could have simply been avoided by accepting the responsibility of being a professional driver. I challenge each of you to evaluate your attitudes and values and strive to be recognized as a “Knight of the Road.”

Winter Parking Review
Before parking drag the trailer brakes a little to dry them after driving in slush. Don’t set the trailer brakes when parking for an extended period. When starting to move, check to see all wheels are turning freely. Never drag tires to free frozen brakes.

When parking for the night try to have a full fuel tank. Maintain fuel tanks at least half-full to minimize condensation in the fuel tank. If there is a chance of becoming snow-bound, top off all tanks.

Don’t burn-out the starter by over-cranking. Crank it for fifteen seconds then let it cool off for two minutes.

Never enter the cab without checking the oil first. When the engine starts, let it idle to warm-up while you do your pre-trip.