
And so it has come, the end of 2020. We look back at the year filled with challenges and opportunities. Trucker Path started the year by prioritizing app improvements such as new features and performance tweaks. We are also honored to have collaborated with truckers towards ironing out bugs, issues, and feature requests.
We are glad to be of service in the trying times of the year, especially when COVID19 happened. The trucking industry soldiered on and Trucker Path remained committed to providing premium services for truck drivers and also introducing COVID19 specific features and resources.
With the coming new year comes a new hope for a new beginning. It is also a time for resolutions, and whether or not you always stick to yours, this is a great time to commit to positive new habits. Consider adding the following commitments to your 2021 resolution list!
We, at Trucker Path, will continue to strive to provide the best trucking features for our truckers who keep our economy going. We truly appreciate the hard work and dedication you have done to ensure that shelves are stocked and we have food on our tables.
We wish you all a Happy New Year! Truck strong this 2021!
How are you spending your New Year? Share in in the comments below.
By Trucker Path




Winter Driving Tips for Truckers
[p]Winter is here bringing with it the end of yet another year. For truck drivers though, winter is no different than any other season. It is the same endless driving through city and country roads no matter the season. The only thing that changes is the way you drive because winter brings rain and snow resulting in wet and slippery roads throughout the country. You need to be extra careful and exercise patience as the odds are stacked against you when it comes to driving in winter. Accidents are not uncommon, with many truckers trying their best to meet delivery deadlines. In such perilous conditions, there are certain protocols to follow, including changing your driving style. Let's talk about what else you can do as a trucker to improve your chances of meeting deadlines this winter.
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[p][b]Focus on the Road [/b][/p]
[p]If the road is slippery, you need to keep both your hands on the steering wheel and focus on the road. A slight shift in focus, and the next thing you know, your truck has lost control. You mustn't be distracted by anything, be it music, the radio, or anything else.[/p]
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[p][b]Reduce Speed [/b][/p]
[p]Yes, you need to meet your delivery deadlines, and for that, you need to drive at a certain pace. But you know what they say, it is better to arrive late than never. Therefore, reduce your truck's speed, judge the road's condition, and increase speed only when it is safe to do so. If you drive slow, you can stop earlier and avoid getting into any accidents. [/p]
[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/TP-BLOG-Winter_Driving_Tips_for_Truckers-Reduce_Speed.jpg" alt=""]
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[p][b]Avoid Sudden Maneuvers[/b][/p]
[p]To protect yourself and others on the road, you should drive a bit smoothly. That means you should accelerate slowly, brake easy, and turn with caution. Do nothing that would decrease your truck's traction and cause you to lose control of your vehicle. It is good practice to keep more than a safe distance between you and the other vehicle in front of you so you can react at the right time. [/p]
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[p][b]Use Lights [/b][/p]
[p]Your truck's headlights, taillights, and fog lights are your dearest friend in harsh weather conditions. Poor lighting is a recipe for disaster, therefore before you set out on the road, inspect your truck's lights. The important thing here is that while you should be able to see the cars in front of you, others should also be able to spot you from behind. [/p]
[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/TP-BLOG-Winter_Driving_Tips_for_Truckers-Use_Lights.jpg" alt=""]
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[p][b]Signal in Advance[/b][/p]
[p]Use your signals way before you intend to turn. As a general rule, wait for four to five blinks before gradually turning a corner or changing lanes. If you are driving slower than the traffic, we suggest you switch on your four-way hazard lights to let everyone else know that you are slow allowing them to make adjustments. [/p]
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[p][b]Watch the Other Truckers [/b][/p]
[p]Veteran truckers are on the road for a reason. They have been trucking for so long that their experience counts for everything. As a beginner, you should learn from them. When big-rigs slow down or pull over, you should too. There is no reason to keep on going if everyone else has decided to call it a day. [/p]
[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/TP-BLOG-Winter_Driving_Tips_for_Truckers-Watch_Other_Truckers.jpg" alt=""]
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[p][b]Check the News and Weather Apps[/b][/p]
[p]It is better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to trucking. Therefore, before setting out on your journey, watch the news, check some weather apps, or talk to other truckers who have taken the route you are intending to take. Leave the safety of wherever you are only when you are sure that it is safe to drive. [/p]
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[p][b]Try for Traction [/b][/p]
[p]When it comes to driving on slippery roads, traction is everything. You need good tires, expert driving skills, and some good luck to make it through winter. The only thing you have under your control among the three is tires. Buy snow tires with a deep tread and with several grooves to get good traction[/p]
[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/TP-BLOG-Winter_Driving_Tips_for_Truckers-Try_for_Traction.jpg" alt=""]
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[p][b]Final Thoughts[/b][/p]
[p]If it were up to us, we would recommend not driving in winter, but that's for you to decide. Winter driving is dangerous, and no matter what you do, there is always a very high risk of getting into a sticky situation. However, if you do decide to weather through the storm in your truck, then avoid high-risk highways.
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[p]You want to avoid the state of Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New York during the winter, and all the highways going around and through these states. Let's not even talk about Alaska, as that is one place that is always a high risk regardless of the season.
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[p]With that said, we wish you a safe winter driving season! What are your winter driving tips? Share them in the comments below. [/p]
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[p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]
Trucker Spotlight - James Cole <em>The Trucker Spotlight series explores the lives of truckers and their journey to make a difference in their industry. We interview different truck drivers to understand some life lessons that make them who they are today. We also learn more about their motivations, and the problems that they encounter on the job. We also tackle how Trucker Path's solutions helped them with what they do. The information that they provide helps inform other people who are looking to delve into the trucking world.</em>
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[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/ts-jamescole-blog-3.jpg" alt=""]
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Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>James Cole</strong>, also known as "Dooner LivingStone" which is his nickname since Highschool. He's been driving for around 11 years now. He also has a YouTube channel under the same nickname where he shares his experiences as a long haul trucker with whoever is willing to put up with his "keep it real" documentary style videos. Let's get to more about James and his trucking life.
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<h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3>
My dad is also an over the road truck driver and has been out here doin' the deal for over 50 years. I'm pretty sure that influenced me to hit the road myself. As a kid I had spent several summers truckin' across the country with him. A few years after got out of the Air Force I got the funds together to go to truck driving school. Best decision I've ever made. It's like it was in my blood or something!
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[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/ts-jamescole-blog-4.jpg" alt=""]
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<h3><strong>In the years that you have been driving, what are the significant changes that you've
noticed in the trucking industry?</strong></h3>
In the 11 years I've been driving, I've definitely seen some changes in the industry. ELDs and mandatory 30 minute breaks have had the biggest effect on me personally. It drastically changed how I run and I still haven't fully gotten into the swing of things. I like to take a break when I want and I want to take a nap when I want without it screwing up my schedule. I think that's all I better say about that. LOL.
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<h3><strong>What's the best thing about being a truck driver?</strong></h3>
The best thing about this career field is learning something new everyday. I'm not, nor will I ever be an expert in trucking. Everyday is a new experience and every load is a new challenge. Anyone who gets into this lifestyle should remember to always remain humble and understand that they will never know it all. The minute you forget that, you're gonna make a major mistake. But... what the hell do I know?!
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<h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3>
It does get lonely out here from time to time. While driving, I keep my mind occupied by listening to Howard Stern or some good music. I also think of other ways to add a little more entertainment value to my YouTube channel. I grind more gears in my brain than I do driving my truck. When I'm off duty, I work on my videos, or try to hone my photography skills, or work on my guitar playing. Just recently, I brought my copilot, Elvis, with me to keep me company. Elvis is my cat.
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[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/ts-jamescole-blog-2.jpg" alt=""]
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<h3><strong>What's the most memorable experience you've had while over the road?</strong></h3>
One of my most memorable experiences was when I delivered a windmill to what seemed to be a hippy colony. I think it was somewhere in Michigan. I don't know, I can't remember. A local farmer unloaded it for them and they were all so excited! My son, Zack who was 10 at the time and spending his summer with me, was treated like a little rock star because he was very knowledgeable in music and also because he was traveling all over the country and seeing things a lot of kids will never see. I remember the lady who seemed to be the one in charge giving him a few CDs of some old school blues right before we left. I thought it was a great experience for him.
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<h3><strong>What's your favorite Truck Brand / Model?</strong></h3>
I love Peterbilts 359, 379, and 389. Beautiful trucks! I drive a 379.
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[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/ts-jamescole-blog-1.jpg" alt=""]
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<h3><strong>Aside from being a trucker, any other things you dream of doing?</strong></h3>
I was a starving musician for years. Never really wanted to be a rock star but, I did dream of living a comfortable life as a performing musician. I also wanted to be a news journalist and write for a newspaper. Good thing I didn't pursue that career 'cause journalism is dead. We don't need to get into that though.
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<h3><strong>What's the best truck stop for you?</strong></h3>
The best truckstop for me is one that has plenty of parking, good food, and clean showers and restrooms. So many of the really good ones aren't around anymore or they were bought by the big chains. There are still a lot of good ones out there. If I had to choose one as my favorite it would be the Bosselman's/Pilot Flying J in Grand Island, Nebraska.
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<h3><strong>What was the worst breakdown or setback you've experienced while OTR</strong></h3>
The worst breakdown? When I ran out of fuel 8 miles from my fuel stop. This was just a few months ago. My fuel gauge read that I had a quarter tank but my gut was telling me otherwise. My pride was was seriously damaged that day. Remember what I said about being an expert, remaining humble, and learning something new everyday?
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<h3><strong>What do you think it takes to be really successful in the trucking/logistics field?</strong></h3>
As long as you enjoy what you're doing and work toward being better than you were yesterday you will be successful. Gotta be in the right truck, pulling the right trailer, hauling the right freight, using the right equipment, and striving to reach your personal best. If it's a job for you and you don't have it in your heart you will be miserable and unhappy. Get out and do something else. This life ain't for everybody!
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<h3><strong>We're glad that you use the Trucker Path app on your day to day trucking. What features do you enjoy the most?</strong></h3>
I use <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">Trucker Path</a> to locate truckstops, parking areas, and scales along my route when planning my trip or if I just wanna check something out along the way. I can see the differences in fuel prices, parking availability, restaurants, and also look ahead to see if the chicken coop is locked up. I'm sure there's more to learn on the app but these are features that I find highly valuable!
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<h3><strong>Where can people watch your videos on Youtube?</strong></h3>
They can view my videos on my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/DoonerLivingstone">Youtube Channel, Dooner LivingStone</a>.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sWVPi4eN_gY" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Hope you guys enjoy!
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<h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4>
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Trucker Path App Update Version 4.30: Get Help <h2></h2>
What's up Trucker Path users!
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We've just released the latest version 4.3.0 of Trucker Path in both <a href="http://bit.ly/truckerpathdroid">Google Play Store</a> and <a href="http://bit.ly/truckerpathios">Apple App Store</a>. Ever since the moment the app hit the ground running, we've identified some recurring themes for the feedback that we've been receiving. Therefore, we reviewed those common themes and came up with the “<strong>Get Help</strong>” section to better help you guys find the assistance you need.
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You can now browse our newly installed FAQs for self-service, and the previous Call Support and Talk To Support sections are integrated into the Get Help as “<strong>Call Us</strong>” and “<strong>Feedback</strong>”.
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<a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-GetHelp-1-1.png"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-GetHelp-1-1.png" alt="" width="600" height="614" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5673" /></a>
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In each feedback section, you can submit your feedback by different issue types – “<strong>account issue</strong>”, “<strong>technical issue</strong>” and “<strong>product suggestion</strong>”. You'll have the option to leave your email, describe your issue in details and upload pictures or screenshots to illustrate the issue.
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<a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-GetHelp-2.png"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-GetHelp-2.png" alt="" width="600" height="614" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5650" /></a>
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We hope this new update can bring you better customer service as well as helping you navigate to the resource you need at ease. If you wish to see more FAQ topics being added to the app, please feel free to contact us through <a href="mailto:support@truckerpath.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">support@truckerpath.com</a> or the Product Suggestion channel of Feedback in the app. We'll review your request and try to accommodate your suggestions in the next round of updates.
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We appreciate you guys for the support. Stay tuned for our latest update!
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