Every profession has certain goals to strive for that often lead to a “Hall of Fame” in one way or another. Different industries have different honors such as winning a championship game, receiving a particular certification, or being awarded a medal, title, or position. But as a professional truck driver for C.R. England, what is the most esteemed goal you should set out to achieve? Driving a million miles accident-free.
In 2012, C.R. England created the Gene England Million Miler Club, named after Gene England himself, who at 97 years old, has undoubtedly driven millions of safe miles. Since then, we have had over 150 drivers join this club, with a combined total of over 160 million safe miles! The purpose of this exclusive club is to recognize and honor the C.R. England drivers who truly the elite and who help make our roads safe. On average, it takes a driver 8 years to driver one million miles. The drivers in this club spend many years, and even decades, working towards driving a million accident-free miles. Driving a million miles is difficult in itself, but doing it safely and accident-free is no easy feat.
When each Million Miler driver hits this milestone, we always ask them to share the best piece of advice on how a driver can achieve the same honor. Over the past six years, we’ve noticed a trend in their advice. These wise and experienced drivers typically give advice that falls into 3 major categories: patience, speed, and being prepared.
“Have a cool head. Stay patient.”
The most common piece of advice we receive from Million Miler drivers pertains to the attitude you should have as a truck driver. A large majority of them tell us that you should always practice patience. We’re reminded to not only be patient with other drivers on the road but that we should be patient and take the time to review the little things. Being patient, level-headed, and thorough is sure to get you on track for a million safe miles.
“Go slow, take your time, and don’t rush.”
Managing your speed and following distance is a crucial part of ensuring safe miles. Million Miler drivers give advice like, “never travel in a pack” and “follow at safe distances.” By being mindful of your speed in parking lots, ramps, and highways, you will be able to avoid many unsafe situations and add safe miles to your record.
“Always think one step ahead.”
Several Million Miler drivers tell us to plan for the “what ifs”. They remind us that if you are thoughtfully prepared and consider all of the potential scenarios you could be in, you’ll never be surprised. This could relate to proper trip planning, being prepared for weather changes and driving for the conditions, understanding your destination and the challenges it could bring, and knowing how to handle your equipment.
Above all else, these drivers urge each one of us, whether we are a professional truck driver or not, to practice safe driving habits. The drivers who are part of the Gene England Million Miler Club are some of the best drivers in the industry and are great examples to us all. Becoming a Million Miler driver is not an easy task and we applaud all of our drivers who have achieved this milestone. These drivers are professional and help keep our roads safe. As Million Miler driver Thomas Malec told us, “Safety is not just a word. It’s your lifeline to success.”
