If you have any doubts about something, like coupling, or what you need in the way of paperwork, don't be afraid to ask another feeder driver. you are now in the FDF fraternity (feeder driver fraternity) and we all look out for one another. The first week I was in feeders, I had a trainer. He went into the building to get a cup of coffee. I proceeded in my urge to hurry, high hooked a trailer on the breakdown pad. When I pulled away, the trailer didn't move and I dropped it. The sound that makes will be in your memory forever. Point is, drivers who I didn't know swooped around me, blocking the view of the dispatch (at our building it is on the second floor on the corner.) with their trailers till we could get it cranked up and rehooked. They didn't know me from Adam's housecat, but they knew I was a rookie. They all know what you're going through, because they went through it too. A footnote:When the on road supervisor came out of the building with his coffee, he asked me if I learned anything today? I said I sure did. He winked at me. He was aware I dropped it, but didn't beat me up over it. Apparently it worked. When I left the company this year I left with 34 years safe driving. I will give you 1 tip. Always clear your trailer in your mirrors. On every turn. every time..with all the 53 footers nowadays a lot of rookies turn too sharp and tear something up. ok here is another tip. Never back where you can't see. If need be, get out and eyeball it. Good luck.
