Google Maps traffic rerouting question

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by joseph1853, Dec 14, 2018.

  1. x1Heavy

    x1Heavy Road Train Member

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    Normally I would howl with laugher because big trucks have been so casterated (Governed) that achieving a speed limit is not possible. Even 65 mph on our rural routes. They still cannot do it.

    However relying on GPS is something that needs to be supported by actual eyes out the window and take in the various signage if any. A few sections on our 5 is noticeably absent so we default to 45. Not in a rush and its a rather quiet road.
     
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  3. ast26909

    ast26909 Medium Load Member

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    It's just another tool like anything else, the car GPS is pretty good at speed limit it even changes the speed limit exactly at the sign. I run a pickup most of the times sometimes going thru dirt roads that 'breadcrumb' feature helps me find the way back ;-)
     
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  4. Rubber duck kw

    Rubber duck kw Road Train Member

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    I always use Google maps for directions unless I call ahead, you can tell by what the road line looks like if it's a decent truck route usually.
     
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  5. laaylor

    laaylor Road Train Member

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    I have a Garmin truck GPS and I use google maps! Maps shows truck entrances, etc... I’ve been driving 18 years so I do have familiarity with our US highway system.... The traffic on my GPS isn’t quite as accurate as google maps; but, close... Doing Walmart now, I Totally ignore my copilot built into my Qualcomm: it sux! Lol
     
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  6. STexan

    STexan Road Train Member

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    Google will attempt to provide at least 1, and preferably 2 options to a destination in case you want to try something new.

    In some cases, one of the optional choices makes little sense especially on shorter routes. And remember, Google assumes you are in a car, will drive the speed limit, and want the fastest option given those two parameters. The initial highlighted route will always be the fastest given current situation.
     
    Last edited: Dec 15, 2018
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  7. Numb

    Numb Crusty Curmudgeon

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    you needed a GPS to get to Waco from Dallas??
     
  8. Rubber duck kw

    Rubber duck kw Road Train Member

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    The ETA Google gives you is pretty close usually, within a half hour anyway.
     
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  9. STexan

    STexan Road Train Member

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    Yes if you can and will drive anywhere near the speed limit. But it’s also especially good at factoring in traffic delays as they currently exist.
     
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  10. Razorwyr

    Razorwyr Road Train Member

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    I'm not saying it cant be used.... it's a great tool, just not for truck speed limits because it assumes you are in a car. Just because it's A tool, doesn't make it the RIGHT tool. You can drive a nail with a tape measure, but why would you, especially when hammers exist?
     
  11. Steel Tiger

    Steel Tiger Road Train Member

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    Just want to face palm myself for the EDITED WORD post from OP.

    Using Google maps to route a CMV is akin to hand feeding a wild animal in the woods. You may get away with it a few times, but eventually it's going to bite you.
    You can't justify spending $400 for a truck GPS??? How about making $0 when your career gets terminated because you say they Google maps said to go that way? Looking away a satellite view doesn't do anything for telling you if it's a truck route or not. There are thousands of residential areas that are dedicated truck routes and vice versa.

    If you can't afford a truck GPS, how about a Motor Carrier Atlas? That's $20.

    To monitor speed limits, I have a great tool for you to use and it's 100% free!! Your eyes. Pay attention to the road.

    Traffic is your concern? Call 511. Hell, how about plan, calculate then execute. How do you think truck drivers did their jobs due the 100+ years before GPS?
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Dec 15, 2018
    Reason for edit: Insulting other member.
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