Truck stops are great shelters for truck drivers who spend long hours on the road. There you can refuel, rest, and park the truck in a safe place.
However, not all truck stops are equally safe for yourself or your rig. Even at the safest truck stops, there is a risk of damaging your vehicle.
Did you know a large percentage of truck-trailer accidents happen at truck stops? Here are a few things to keep in mind to help you stay safe at your next truck stop:
1. PRE-PLAN YOUR TRIP
Choose your truck stop, don't let them choose you!
Plan your route wisely in advance, so you know exactly where you will stop during the day.
Search for stops with good lighting and plenty of room.
2. DO EVERYTHING YOU NEED DURING ONE-STOP
Plan to take care of everything you need at a truck stop when you are there the first time. For fuel, to refill your coffee and eat is better than stopping five times.
3. AVOID PARKING AT THE END OF A ROW
Drivers mostly park at the end of a row because they are tired from a long drive, and the end is the nearest parking place. Avoiding the end of a parking lot helps you avoid drivers who are parking when they are tired. Only removing yourself from high traffic areas can help.
Also, avoid a spot that will force you to back out when you leave. Choose a spot that you can either pull through (the best option) or back into (the second-best option).
4. USE YOUR FOUR-WAYS
Use your four-ways when pulling through the lot and backing up. The people at the truck stops are mostly tired and distracted. These four-ways activate the peripheral vision and increase the chances of someone seeing you. And if required, use your horn gently when needed to tell someone: „Hey, I am here”.
5. USE YOUR CAMERAS
With the help of cameras, you'll be able to see the narrow points on the side and back of the truck. Do not rush! Take your time, and you can also step down to survey the surrounding areas.
Truck stops, passenger stations, and other roadside rest areas are busy places. Truck drivers must take care not only of themselves and their colleagues but also of confused and tired car drivers, unconscious pedestrians, hyperactive pets, etc.
Be careful and stay safe in the parking lot!
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