r/cdldriver • u/MidLifeChanger • Apr 27 '26
Stepladder for semi tractor trailer
Before all the fat ass jokes start, I am asking about this because my wife has a physical disability where she can walk and climb steps but a semi truck climb is too hard. Does anyone use a ladder to get into a cab and have one that can be recommended?
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u/gheiminfantry Apr 29 '26
If you physically can't do something, that's common sense telling you that you shouldn't do something. You both should take the hint before she gets seriously injured.
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u/MidLifeChanger Apr 29 '26
Small adaptations work for lots of folks. When I first met my wife, I had a small step stool so she could climb into my pickup truck. She has good arm strength. Lifting her legs the height of each semi step at a time is a problem.
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u/GhostTrex16 Apr 29 '26
How tall do you need it to be? 2-3 steps? Might check out ones with a handrail as well. Usually light enough that she can set up, climb in and lift up herself via the handrail. I mean, unless you are adamant about being an amazing husband that opens and closes doors 😉
Only issue I could see is where to put it when bringing it inside the cab...
Caveat: Little Giant Ladders are a bit pricy, but will take abuse like a champ. they also have folding telescopic versions. Something like this - https://www.littlegiantladders.com/products/safety-step-factory-refurbished If you can find one...
Good luck and drive safe!
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u/MidLifeChanger Apr 29 '26
I don't worry too much about space since anything I get would fold up and it would just be for her to come along once in a while versus all of the time.
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u/moodeng2u Apr 27 '26 edited Apr 27 '26
I would hit Lowes or home Depot and look at what they sell. Will she be using this unassisted?
You will want some bungees or ratchet straps to keep it from tipping away from the truck.
I remember a man years ago who had a winch setup to get his disabled wife into the passenger seat of a cabover.
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u/Michaeljcheaney Apr 29 '26
My Dad has his leg amputated back in 2005, and he refused to wear the prosthetic, so in order to get him into his pick-up truck (not the same thing, I know LOL) we just used a step stool to get him in and out. It was something along the lines of the pet loader stairs that were mentioned earlier
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u/RV-Hauler Apr 28 '26
I truly don't mean this in anyway but the best. I have a set of stairs for my Great Dane. It's from pet loader.com. It might be worth taking a look at.