2011
Clifford StootDSR, LHO
In 1978, Clifford Stoot Jr. was a high school graduate seeking independence and long stretches of open road. He entered a career in the trucking business because he wanted to traverse the highways, “to be on the move,” as he says. Now, more than 30 years later, Clifford is indeed on the move, logging approximately 504 miles per shift as a driver sales representative for Con-way Freight.
“It’s something I always wanted to do,” says Clifford of his profession. When asked what he enjoys most about driving for a living, Clifford credits the freedom. “It’s just you and the truck,” he explains.
As a nighttime driver, Clifford must take extra precautions in order to maintain a safe driving record. “The biggest challenge is driving defensively on the road,” says Clifford. “It’s important for other drivers to understand that freight trucks can’t stop on a dime.”
According to Clifford, the single best thing that a motorist can do to prevent accidents is “be aware of others.” To encourage safe driving, Clifford reminds other motorists to be considerate and remain a safe distance in front of, or behind, larger vehicles. “If everyone showed a little courtesy, the roads would be safer for all cars and trucks.”
Achieving two million miles of accident-free driving is no easy feat. Clifford, who joined Con-way Freight in 1991, is proud of his accomplishment. “It means a lot,” Clifford says, “to travel that distance and not have an accident.” In the face of unpredictable traffic and weather, Clifford cites a proper amount of rest as the key to truck driving safety and success. “Don’t burn the candle at both ends,” he advises. “Those caffeine pills and energy drinks just don’t compare to some good rest.”
Good rest has fared well for Clifford, who has been a professional truck driver for 25 years. He is based in Houston, where he lives with his wife of 29 years, Jennifer, and their three children: Adrian, 25, Ashley, 24 and James, 19. When he isn’t behind the wheel, Clifford enjoys playing basketball.
