Finding a Safe Place to Park Your Truck
When you need to stop and rest during one of your trips, it’s essential that you find a safe place to park.
Parking is one of the most frustrating parts of driving any vehicle. Even so, it’s much easier to park a regular passenger car or truck than a rig with a 53-foot trailer on the back of it. When you need to stop and rest during one of your trips, it’s essential that you find a safe place to park.
Make a Plan
Planning is the best thing you can do to succeed in your trucking career. Look at the route you plan to travel on the day that you’re leaving. Once you’ve done this, pick a destination for the day. Unless you’re planning on making a short run, it’s possible you won’t get there and back in the same day. Find another place to stop fifty miles or so closer to your final destination. That way, you won’t be sidetracked by bad weather, traffic conditions, or other road problems that will only slow you down.
Be Resourceful
You’ll also need to take advantage of any and all resources that you can get. There are smartphone apps to guide you to a safe parking place. Just remember to look at them when you aren’t moving. Larger truck stops will probably also have their own dedicated apps, which will allow you to pay for a space before you arrive. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask your dispatcher or another driver. New drivers may be especially nervous about going somewhere new. Rely on other truck drivers with more experience. The CB radio is an important tool for your success, so be sure to use it whenever you get stuck or frustrated.
Travel During “Off” Times
Part of making a good plan is to predict where trouble will interfere with your route. Try leaving earlier or wait until traffic subsides. In other words, attempt to travel during off times so there aren’t as many other people on the road. Late arrivals and departures are bound to happen, but it’s important to not let them become a habit. Take your break from driving during less crowded hours, too. The late afternoon and evening hours between 4 pm and 11 pm are the most popular times to stop.
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