www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=58674
Well, I made my debut post on this forum just 12 months ago and the above link.
It angered many of you and was seen as confrontational. It wasn't meant to be at all, but having just sat and read it through from start to finish, I can certainly see why it was seen as such.
It had been a very bad year for me but things had just started to look a bit better then, with some light at the end of the tunnel.
I've stuck around ( welcome or not!), I read far more posts than I reply to and it certainly gives me some valuable insight into the way car drivers perceive us lorry drivers, and has brought a far greater understanding for myself and hopefuly our PDA Members too.
I admit to being a tad intimidated at times and thinking my opinions won't be welcome, but I log on to HJ every evening, sitting in my lorry wherever I am, and read the latest threads.
Things I've learned from these forums>>>>>
Car Drivers are just as proud of their skill as we are.
We are ALL road users and in the bigger picture, DO have respect for each other.
There are more very good and considerate car drivers than there are bad ones.
There are some very arrogant and bullish lorry drivers about ( and there are getting to be more than ever before).
Your sense of humour is sometimes hard to understand! ( but then again, so is ours!)
I'm amazed at how many of you are also Bikers :)
The Moderators are great and thanks to PU for calming the waters last year and allowing me to stay.
I've enjoyed being around here, I've learned a lot and if it's all the same to you all, I'd like to stick around for 2009 as well and learn some more.
Pat
That's a lorry drivers attempt at an apology, by the way!
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In reply to pda...
Like looking in a mirror ( rear view of course - must keep up the motoring theme )
{No need to include the full quote , Rob}
Edited by rtj70 on 20/12/2008 at 20:51
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History repeats itself they say! - so here again is the first reply to your first post!
Well said, pda.<< (quote-Oldpostie)
:-)
Billy
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I reckon you're very welcome round here Pat(pda), a bit of confrontation and differing views sometimes brings more forthright and heartfelt feelings to the fore.
Its good that we don't all agree and have similar opinions all the time, the forum would be extremely boring if everyone agreed with my (correct) version...
I like hearing your thoughts, its good to know that going a bit potty is not the sole perogative of old transporter drivers....
;);)
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It's vital for this forum to have a balance between various types of driver, and I for one am very glad that you're still with us, Pat. Input from truckers and other professional drivers is hugely valuable, and the truckers we have here are always sensible and constructive.
Yes, we all get fed up when we get behind a lorry on a single carriageway and there's nowhere to overtake: but we can be thankful that the vast majority of trucks are driven properly and that we won't be unpleasantly surprised by anything they do.
As car drivers we should all make a new year resolution not to give them any surprises either.
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No worries from this poster about a bit of firmly held & contrary opinion - it would be very tedious with dull concensus all the time. I don't know about everyone else, but I find a bit of heated (but civilised & polite..) debate has much the same effect as a cold shower or bracing winters' walk! One can, of course, learn a great deal as well.
Edited by woodbines on 20/12/2008 at 18:51
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I have no problems with your views, I am fortunate to have passed what was the HGV1 test, and although I havent driven HGV for many years can see both points view. I feel it is unfortunate that car drivers dont have an insight into HGV driving. How about a "Truck driver action" fly on the wall tv programme? I suppose it would only be watched by some driving enthusiasts though, and not people who are in need of the insight.
Edited by Old Navy on 20/12/2008 at 19:10
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How about a "Truck driver action" fly on the wall tv programme?
Strewth Old Navy got me all of a tither for a moment then, had visions of.....well never mind..;)
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Its ok pat
I joined your group and started winding up your lot.
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>>had visions of.....well never mind..;)
Must be getting senile, hadnt thought of that! Wouldnt be allowed even after the 9pm watershed.
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Pat, I read your initial post and the above with interest. I've only been a member for a few weeks but have always read HJ's column in the DT so it was only a matter of time.
I won't go into what I'd reply to your initial post as it's irrelevant now but your subsequent "things I've learnt..." is very heartening. Idiots who cut you up are the very same idiots who cut up other vehicles. The difference however is large given the potential damage to a car and its occupants if hit by a lorry - so it's not "the same" so to speak. Some car drivers are just self appointed arbiters of road-sense. If it doesn't match their idea, it's wrong. Everyone curses them though.
When I was little, I used to put my thumbs up at lorry drivers. Almost without exception they waved back. So I've always felt generally warm towards HGV drivers. Your skill at manoeuvring those massive warehouses on wheels so deftly still astounds me.
As for your opinions not being welcome, I'm glad you've realised this is not the case. My posts are generally long winded and particularly uninteresting, no-one really replies to me but I'll carry on!
Happy trucking!
R
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I wonder how many people who use this forum and pass opinion on truck drivers/driving have not done any driver training whatsoever since their basic driving test?
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Could I add a big thanks to the mods for their hard work this year, esp with those of us suffering from foot firmly in the mouth issues :-)
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As a biker, I too would like to give a big thanks to our trucker pals. I only bike for pleasure...I have no need to speed...done all that.....so it is really good when I can tuck in behind a truck doing around 40/ 50 on an A road. I let the trucker show me where all the bends are, I travel at some distance behind him and he shows me all the hazards, protects me from oncoming overtakers and I can then enjoy the ride and the countryside in safety..
So, if you are a trucker being followed by a biker who doesn't want to pass....it may be me !
Ted
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>>a biker who doesn't want to pass....<<
Oh dear, a biker AND a mimser :-)
In the BR one really shouldnt suggest that anything other than the max speed safe and possible is acceptable. Pleasure is not permitted lest you get in the way of man on a mission in his Audi/BMW :-)
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I'll echo the above. Always good to have an informed opinion from someone who knows their game. I enjoy the banter on here and especially so those that don't necessarily agree with my angle, as you can always learn from others can't you, or enjoy trying to get others to see your viewpoint...(NowWheels i'm sure i've detected a chink in your armour)...;-)
I particularly enjoy the mostly civilised behaviour on here and for that the Mods can take a deep bow...I know some things get nipped in the bud early, but that's the price for the most civilised site i've found...and why i'm still here.
I do though think it's a shame that some posters who perhaps aren't as robust as some (and why should they be) get hammered by the 'perfect' brigade for an honest post, which causes them to disappear early. The thought ought to be no one's always right and if they're willing to discuss it on here they might learn something and improve..(cue someone finding one of my posts that steams in)...:-)
This site can only benefit from people like pda (and others), long may it continue.. from an avowed addict.
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