Learning to drive an 18-wheeler does not end as soon as you make a correct left turn. In fact, it takes a lifetime to refine your skills into an art form.If you are in a truck driving school, we are willing to bet you can’t wait to get off of the practice course and onto the highway. But for new drivers just breaking into the industry, there is much that still needs to be learned.Big Truck Hoods, your source for semi truck bumpers, offers tips for new truck drivers. Rest When You Can You don’t realize it yet, but sitting behind the wheel of your rig hour after hour staying alert is very exhausting. And when you get tired, your reaction times slow down and you don’t always make the best decisions.So as a new truck driver, you need to get rest as every opportunity. This means taking a nap whenever you can and always striving to get at least seven hours of sleep each night. Carry Tools Having the right tools on hand makes problems that crop up easier to solve. You will encounter minor issues with your rig while you are on the road, it is inevitable. It is far easier for you to fix minor issues until they can be properly serviced by a mechanic than it is to call a repair truck or a tow truck. Take it Slow and Easy As a newbie to the trucking industry, you might feel like you should rush through your first few runs. This can lead to pushing the gas pedal a little too hard and not driving at a safe speed.You need to stop and remember that slow and steady always wins the race. You Will Make Mistakes New drivers need to come to terms with the fact that getting lost occasionally is all a part of the job. Even with the best GPS system, an accident or road work will divert you from your path and you might get off track. Pack Plenty of Water Some truck drivers swear by coffee, soda, tea or energy drinks, but nothing beats a cold sip of water when you are parched. When you drink water throughout your day, your body functions better. Dehydration can be dangerous as it can make you feel tired and sluggish.Ask For HelpThere are plenty of experienced truckers out there who have a ton of knowledge that they are willing to share with you. New drivers will benefit by asking questions and listening to what experienced drivers have to say. Pay Attention It is easy to exit the highway when you need to fuel up or grab a bite to eat, but getting back on might be a little more difficult. When you exit the highway, take a good look around to make sure you know how to get back on it. If you are new to the trucking industry, then you need to know where to buy hoods and bumpers for your rig. Shop Big Truck Hoods today.