Ever been stuck behind “racing” trucks crawling side-by-side, blocking traffic? Or seen the free-for-all at a packed truck stop? Truck driver courtesy is on the decline and impacting everyone on the road.
At Chief Carriers, we believe trucking etiquette is paramount, not only for truck driver safety and efficiency but also for a positive image of our profession. In this episode of Driven Too Far, our General Manager, Andrew Winkler, discusses the top three areas where courtesy is declining in the trucking industry. He also offers trucking best practices that promote a more professional and respectful trucking community.
Truck Stop Etiquette
Truck stops are the lifeblood of the trucking industry, offering professional truck drivers a place to rest, refuel, and replenish supplies. But these vital oases can quickly descend into chaos when professional courtesy takes a backseat.
Parking Problems
Parking your truck might seem simple, but as Winkler reveals, “We probably spend more money every year repairing trucks that get hit in truck stops than we do any other kind of accident.” This highlights the costly dangers of inconsiderate parking at truck stops. Taking an extra few minutes to find a proper parking spot, even if it means walking a bit further, is a small price for safety and peace of mind.
The design of modern truck stops contributes to the parking problem. Many facilities are not equipped to handle the increasing volume of truck traffic, leading to overcrowded parking lots and a scramble for available spaces. This situation can be particularly challenging for new drivers or those unfamiliar with a particular truck stop.
Fuel Stop Frustrations
Another point of contention at truck stops is fuel island etiquette. It’s incredibly frustrating to pull up to a pump only to find it blocked by a driver who’s inside grabbing a snack, using the restroom, or worse, catching up on some sleep. Not only does this behavior create bottlenecks and delays for fellow drivers, but it also reflects poorly on the company you represent.
Winkler advises, “Be courteous. Be thoughtful. Pull the truck up. Go find a parking space if you really need to go in. Plan your day better.”
Highway Driving Etiquette
The highway demands a heightened sense of awareness and respect for fellow travelers. Unfortunately, it’s also where we often witness some of the worst breaches of trucking etiquette, which can lead to frustration, inefficiency, and even dangerous situations.
Elephant Racing
We’ve all seen two trucks, side-by-side, engaged in a seemingly endless passing duel, with traffic backing up behind them. This “elephant racing,” as it’s often called, is not only inefficient but also dangerous.
Winkler emphasizes, “Think about how your action is going to impact the people around you.” Before you decide to pass, consider the speed difference, the traffic conditions, and whether it’s truly necessary. Remember, a few seconds gained by aggressive passing isn’t worth compromising safety or contributing to the negative perception of truck drivers.
Left Lane Laziness
The left lane is for passing, not cruising. Yet, many drivers seem to forget this basic rule of the road, creating bottlenecks and frustration for those trying to maintain a safe and efficient speed. “The rules of the road [are that] you drive on the right, you pass on the left,” Winkler reminds us. “If we all did that, can you imagine how much better traffic might flow?”
Even if you’re in the right lane, you can still contribute to better traffic flow. If you see a truck struggling to pass in the left lane, consider tapping your brakes for a few seconds to allow them to get ahead. It’s a small act of courtesy that can make a big difference.
Tailgating Troubles
Tailgating is dangerous and one of the most unprofessional behaviors a professional truck driver can exhibit on the road. Following too closely behind another vehicle, whether a car or another truck, significantly reduces your reaction time and increases the risk of a collision. The larger and heavier your vehicle, the greater the stopping distance required, making tailgating an even more hazardous practice for truck drivers.
With the increasing use of dashcams in trucks, this aggressive behavior will likely be caught on camera, potentially leading to disciplinary action. Maintain a safe following distance to avoid putting yourself and others at risk.
The Importance of Trucking Etiquette
These seemingly minor annoyances can significantly impact the trucking industry as a whole. There are a few reasons why trucking etiquette goes beyond just courtesy:
- Safety First: Whether it’s parking responsibly at truck stops, maintaining a safe following distance on the highway, or using your signals correctly, courteous driving practices help prevent accidents and protect lives.
- Efficiency and Productivity: By avoiding behaviors that cause delays and congestion, such as blocking fuel pumps or “elephant racing,” we can keep traffic flowing smoothly and ensure that goods are delivered on time.
- Stress Reduction: By practicing trucking etiquette, we can help reduce road rage incidents and create a less stressful driving experience for everyone.
- Sense of Community: Treating each other with respect and consideration creates a sense of community and shared responsibility among all drivers.
- Trucking Industry Image: As Winkler notes, “When we talk about…road rage and the image that trucking leaves with people, if you want to know why people don’t like trucks, that’s why.”
We share the road, we rely on each other for safety and efficiency, and we all have a role to play in maintaining a professional and respectful trucking industry. By prioritizing courtesy and embracing trucking best practices, we can create a better driving experience for ourselves and for generations of truckers to come.
Steering Towards a More Courteous Future
Professional courtesy is essential for a safe and efficient trucking industry. By being mindful of our actions at truck stops and on the highway, we can all contribute to a more positive image of our profession. Let’s commit to parking responsibly, using fuel islands efficiently, and sharing the road with consideration and respect.
At Chief Carriers, we believe that courtesy is contagious. Let’s start a positive trend and show the world that truck drivers are true professionals. Listen to the full podcast episode and join in on the conversation!
