by S. Heisley » Tue May 15, 2018 7:35 pm
I've learned to be careful at rest stops but most are still okay. Once, when driving a U-Haul, I had a blow-out on the freeway. I pulled over but quickly realized that this was a mistake. I was on a very slim flat area with a drop off next to it and every time a truck went by, the U-Haul would rock badly. Nobody stopped; and, at that time, I didn't have a cell phone. So, I decided that, since the truck had tandem wheels, I would be better off going slow, with my flashers on, to the next rest stop. Luckily, the rest stop wasn't far and had a pay phone; so, I was able to call for help. Meanwhile a guy walked up and asked if I was driving that truck and I said yes. He introduced himself as "Rick" and said he was from Louisiana. He put out his hand for a handshake and, not knowing what else to do and not wanting to insult him, I put out my hand to shake. He grabbed my hand and started kissing it and speaking French! Fortunately, I had my mid-twenties stepson with me; and, when he came out of the restroom, I called him over. "Rick" made his excuses and left. We got in the truck, locked the doors, and didn't get out again until the U-Haul service person arrived. I still chuckle about that episode; but, I wonder what escape idea I would have had to dream up if I had been alone!
Now days, I have a cell phone (as do most people) and, when I stop at a rest stop, the first thing I do before I even get out of the car is look around and assess the area and people. If something doesn't feel right, I leave, even if the next rest stop is 75 miles away! However, when I am towing the trailer and can park with the trucks, I feel much safer...with one exception..... My tow vehicle and tiny teardrop is usually too small for the trucks to see in between the other trucks and they tend to think that where I am parked is an empty spot. I have gotten an occasional surprise because of that! So, I pull all the way forward and as far as I can to the right. That way, if a trucker pulls in, we can fit in the same spot together! I have often gotten a thank-you for that. These days, the available parking spots fill up fast and are full by 8:30 or 9:00 PM; so, if you want a nap, you need to stop and park before then. IMO, truck stops are too noisy; but, if there's nothing else, I may stop there briefly.