I’ve Driven 2.5 Million Safe Miles as an Army Vet Trucker

What does it take to survive 2.5 million safe miles on America’s highways? For ATS specialized driver and Army veteran Bill Hodges, the answer comes down to preparation, honesty, and knowing that no load is worth a life.

In a recent episode of the Beyond the Road podcast, Bill sat down to share his journey from the military to the trucking industry, his experiences through storms and downturns, and the advice he wishes every driver knew.

From Army Veteran to Million-Mile Trucker

Before joining ATS in 2014, Bill spent 15 years in the U.S. Army and another 1.5 million miles driving flatbed with his first carrier. His military background gave him the discipline and problem-solving skills to handle the unexpected — skills that have served him well across his 2.5 million safe miles on the road.

“Veterans are self-starters,” Bill explained. “We’ve been in charge of people, dealt with stress, and learned to keep calm under pressure. Those traits carry over into trucking.”

Surviving Freight Downturns

The trucking industry is cyclical. Bill lived through the 2008 crash and compares it to the past few years of freight slowdowns. His advice to drivers is simple but powerful:

• Control your debt: Keep payments manageable in slow times.

• Budget weekly, not monthly: Pay can fluctuate. 

• Maintain your credit score: It’s your backup plan when freight slows.

• Consider a secondary income stream: For rainy weeks or months.

“Be upfront with your family,” Bill said. “If money is tight, they need to know so they can adjust. Honesty reduces stress at home.”

The Driver–Fleet Manager Relationship

According to Bill, one of the biggest factors in a driver’s success is their fleet manager.

“Your driver manager can make or break your career. Communication is everything. If you break down, let them know immediately. If you’re struggling, talk it out. Hiding problems only makes them worse.”

Weathering the Storms — Literally

Bill has survived hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms while hauling specialized freight. His weather safety tips include:

• Check the radar before moving. “We delayed departure once because of a thunderstorm warning. An hour later, winds hit 60 mph. If we’d left earlier, it would’ve been a disaster.”

• Never be pressured by a paycheck. “The biggest danger is telling yourself you ‘have’ to move when roads are unsafe.”

• Stock your truck for emergencies. Food, water, and cold-weather gear can be lifesavers if you’re stranded.

• Know when to stop. “No load is worth a life.”

One of his wildest stories? Delivering plywood to New Orleans right after Hurricane Katrina, where his load was used to board up a Home Depot.

Lessons for Reaching 1 Million Safe Miles

Bill insists that million-mile safety awards don’t happen by accident. They require discipline, planning, and self-care. His key lessons for drivers aspiring to 1 million safe miles of their own:

• Take care of your equipment. Never skip pre- and post-trip inspections.

• Keep a funded maintenance account. Repairs are inevitable, so plan for them.

• Know your numbers. Understand your cost per mile, fuel strategy, and profitability.

• Stay healthy. Monitor blood pressure, get exercise, and bring a pet for companionship and stress relief, if you can.

• Keep in touch with family. Strong relationships at home keep you grounded on the road.

Why Drivers Should Listen

After 2.5 million safe miles and a lifetime of service, Bill’s message to other drivers is clear: plan ahead, communicate openly, and always put safety first.

“Accidents are called accidents for a reason,” he said. “But if you make the safe decision whenever you can, you’ll stack up safe miles. That’s what it takes to make it in this industry.”

For more interviews with trucking professionals, compelling stories, and the latest trends on the road, check out more episodes of Beyond the Road!