Trucking is a serious business—tight deadlines, unpredictable weather, long hours behind the wheel—but that doesn’t mean it’s without personality. In fact, many drivers have rituals, habits, or even full-blown superstitions they follow to stay safe and sane on the road.
Are they proven? Maybe not. But in an industry built on instinct, grit, and a little luck, these beliefs are as much a part of trucking culture as coffee and CB radios.
Here are 7 Superstitions Truckers Swear By:
1. No Green Trucks
Some drivers flat-out refuse to drive a green rig. The belief goes back decades, with roots in military history and early trucking accidents. Whether it’s superstition or coincidence, green trucks still get side-eye from old-school drivers.
2. Lucky Hat = Safe Haul
Many truckers have a designated lucky hat—a ball cap or beanie they don’t hit the road without. Take it off, and you might as well park the truck. It’s part comfort, part confidence.
3. Fuzzy Dice or a Dashboard Totem
From fuzzy dice and mini Buddhas to toy trucks or bobbleheads, a dash ornament can be more than decoration. Some believe these small items ward off bad luck or bring good karma.
4. Knock on Wood Before a Haul
Just got a good load? Made it through rough weather? Some drivers knock on wood (often the dash or steering wheel) to avoid jinxing their run. You’ll hear, “So far, so good—knock on wood” more often than you think.
5. Never Talk About a Breakdown
Talking about problems before they happen is a big no-no. Mentioning a flat tire or engine issue before it occurs is thought to attract trouble. It’s the trucking version of “don’t tempt fate.”
6. Always Start a Route With the Same Routine
Some drivers swear by a start-of-trip ritual: same snack, same song, same route to the highway. Break the rhythm, and something might go wrong. It’s not just superstition—it’s also about focus.
7. CB Radio Sign-Off Rituals
Old-school drivers often say a specific phrase when signing off on the CB—something like “Keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down.” It’s a send-off and a protection spell, all rolled into one.
Superstition or Sanity?
To outsiders, these beliefs might seem silly. But in a job with so many unknowns—traffic, breakdowns, weather, DOT stops—a little tradition brings comfort. Whether it’s lucky socks or a must-play song when the sun rises, superstitions are just part of what makes trucking feel personal.
And hey—if it works, it works.
One Thing That’s Not Superstition? Solid Insurance.
At Logrock, we believe in preparation—not luck. Whether you’re an owner-operator or manage a growing fleet, we help you get the truck insurance coverage you need to stay protected, compliant, and stress-free.
Need a quote before your next haul? We’ve got you—lucky hat or not.
