Blog Post

Trukademy– How to Gain Defensive Driving Skills

  • By Ish Singh
  • 08 Aug, 2019

Defensive Driving information

Trukademy – How to Gain Defensive Driving Skills

Truck divers are arguably among the safest drivers on the road. But since you have to share the road with drivers who may be somewhat – ahem – less safe, it is important to know how to drive defensively. The following are some of our top tips on how you as a truck driver can make the road safer for yourself and others.

1.       Keep your distance.

Trucks need considerably more time to stop than cars, and the faster you are travelling, the more time to stop you will need. As much as possible, keep an appropriate distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front on you.

2.       Keep your vehicle well maintained and perform proper inspections.

By ensuring that your vehicle is in tip top shape, you are helping to ensure that it will respond as it should if you ever need to brake quickly or swerve. Performing your proper inspections thoroughly will also help you to catch potential issues before they have a chance to cause problems on the road.

3.       Be alert and focus on the road.

When you are driving it is important to stay focussed and alert. Avoid distractions and remember to take your rest breaks. While driving, you should always be scanning the traffic situation for potential problems so that you have time to react.

4.       Assume the worst in other drivers.

While it might seem a bit paranoid, it is important to remember that not all drivers have the same skill level that you do. For all you know, that car in the lane next to you might be driven by a teenager who just got his license or by an elderly woman who isn’t as confident on the highway as she used to be. If you think a car might cut you off or brake too close to you, assume they will and be prepared.

5.       Take a defensive driving course.

Finally, in order to gain the defensive driving skills you will need as a truck driver, you should take a defensive driver course like the one offered by Trukademy. Our course will not only give you the theory you need to stay safe on the road but you will get in-vehicle practice with a qualified instructor.

For more information on Trukademy’s Defensive Driving Course – or to enroll in an upcoming session – contact us today.

By trukademy 28 Oct, 2024
Discover the essential steps to obtain your CDL license in Ontario with Trukademy. From eligibility requirements to training tips and testing insights, we guide you through the entire process, ensuring you're well-prepared for a successful trucking career.
By Trukademy 13 Sep, 2024
Earning your AZ license is vital for a successful trucking career. Unlock better job prospects, higher earnings, and exciting opportunities in the industry.
By Trukademy 29 Aug, 2024
Discover why attending a truck driving school is essential for your career success. Learn the skills, gain certification, and boost your opportunities in the trucking industry.
By Trukademy 18 Jul, 2024
Boost your trucking career with essential tips for thriving on the road in Canada. Learn how to prioritize health, manage finances, enhance driving skills, and maintain a work-life balance.
By Trukademy 17 Jun, 2024
Discover the vital role of commercial truck drivers in Canada. Learn about the requirements, training, job opportunities, and challenges in the trucking industry.
By Trukademy 04 Jun, 2024
Obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a significant step towards starting a career in the trucking industry. However, choosing the right CDL training program is crucial for success. We'll explore the top AZ CDL training programs and provide tips on selecting the best one for you.

By Ish Singh 17 May, 2024
Obtaining your AZ license is a significant milestone in your trucking career, but passing the training exam can be daunting. At Trukademy, our truck training school in Mississauga , we understand the importance of preparing effectively for the AZ license training exam. At Trukademy, we are committed to offering the highest standards of quality and expertise in training professional drivers for successful careers in the transportation industry.

Understand the Exam Format:

Before diving into your study routine, familiarize yourself with the  AZ license training   exam format. Know how many questions are on the exam, the time limit, and the topics covered. This will help you structure your study plan more effectively.

Study the Official Handbook:

The official AZ license handbook is your ultimate guide to the exam. Study the handbook thoroughly, paying close attention to road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. Take notes, create flashcards, and quiz yourself regularly to reinforce your understanding of the material.

Take Practice Tests:

Practice makes perfect, and taking practice tests is an excellent way to gauge your readiness for the exam. Trukademy offers practice tests in our

truck driver training  programs in Mississauga. Use these tests to identify areas that need improvement and focus your study efforts accordingly.

Focus on Weak Areas:

Based on your practice test results, identify your weak areas and prioritize studying those topics. Whether understanding right-of-way rules or mastering backing maneuvers, dedicate extra time and effort to areas where you need improvement.

Utilize Online Resources:

Supplement your learning with online resources such as instructional videos, interactive quizzes, and study guides. Trukademy offers a variety of online resources as part of our trucking school in Mississauga , providing you with additional support and guidance.

Practice, Practice, Practice:

Practice your driving skills regularly to build confidence behind the wheel. Take advantage of opportunities to practice driving on different roads and weather conditions to prepare for the real-world challenges you may encounter during the exam.

Stay Calm and Focused:

On the exam day, stay calm and focused. Arrive early, get a good night's sleep, and eat a healthy meal beforehand. Take deep breaths and visualize yourself passing the exam with flying colours. Remember, you've put in the time and effort to prepare, and you're ready for this challenge.

Follow Instructions Carefully:

Listen carefully to the instructions provided by the examiner and follow them to the letter. Pay attention to speed limits, lane changes, and signalling procedures. Following instructions correctly demonstrates your competence and professionalism as a driver.


Stay Positive:

Maintain a positive attitude throughout the exam, even when challenging situations occur. Remember that mistakes happen, and it's okay to make them as long as you learn from them. Stay focused on the task and believe in your ability to succeed.

Review Your Performance


After completing the exam:

  1. Take some time to reflect on your performance.
  2. Identify areas where you did well and areas where you could improve.
  3. Use this feedback to guide your learning and development as a truck driver.

AZ License course highlights:

  1.  200+ hours of in-class and in-cab training. 
  2. Course fees are 100% tax deductible 
  3. Part-time and full-time training are available 
  4. Flexible training schedules are available 
  5. Our instructors are highly experienced in providing superior AZ truck driver training.

Contact us today with any questions, and remember to ask about your financing options.

Trukademy Canada Inc. is registered as a private career college under the Private Career Colleges Act of 2005, and our Tractor Trailer MELT and AZ program courses are approved as vocational programs under the Act. With a location in Mississauga, Ontario, we provide our graduates with a wide range of commercial truck drivers and job placement programs. All courses are tax deductible.

Passing the  AZ license training  exam on your first attempt requires dedication, preparation, and a positive mindset. By following these tips and strategies provided by Trukademy, our truck training school in Mississauga, you can confidently approach the exam and increase your chances of success. Contact us for our truck driving programs today, and let us help you achieve your goal of becoming a professional truck driver.

By Jerit Justin 15 Apr, 2024
The trucking industry in Canada is indeed a highly profitable career for those who are willing to do the hard work. Here we have broken down the trucker's salaries and ranked them on provinces and job roles.
By Jerit Justin 12 Feb, 2024
Learn about AZ License, it's requirements, the licensing process in this comprehensive guide to become an AZ licensed trucker in Canada.
By Jerit Justin 23 Jan, 2024
Learn A-Z about becoming an effective truck dispatcher in Canada, the requirements, process, responsibilities, training courses and more
Show More
Share by: