Do new drivers use gps? Truck driver stuck on the highway ramp

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by jc3737, Dec 17, 2017.

  1. lionman101

    lionman101 Light Load Member

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    May 2, 2015
    perrysburg oh
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    Just to give my little 2 cents. I normally use Google maps, Atlas, and (no longer have one anymore since my last one was stolen) a Rand McNally. The company I'm with, I've used their Navigo, which is okay. I had to make a delivery in Chicago at a Dollar Tree, and it was interesting getting that truck in one part of the ally between cars, and having to watch almost a few accidents because people are flying down it when I'm as far to the side I can get. I had to make a few turn arounds though since I missed a couple of turns... Nevertheless, I could be ready for NYC. lol. When I started trucking, my trainer told me he goes by what directions he gets from the Qualcomm, GPS, and the Atlas. Before I would start my route, he would have me do those steps and tell him what's the best route.

    Calling the shipper/customer can only do so much. Someone may tell you to take a turn that is not meant for a semi. I had to back all the way out from a parking lot in NJ. I was given the option of having the turnpike people show up to let me out forward, or back out... I saved myself $$$'s in fines for just backing out.
    If no one has mentioned it, if you find yourself stuck in a situation, find out someway of getting out of it. Depending on where you are, you could get fined. I rather waste a few hours, than a few dollars. BUT using every resource you have can save you a lot of time before you even get to where you're going.

    In my experience, my Rand McNally does mention about low bridges. Sometimes, usually if you're on a road that has it. But many times it's already directing you elsewhere. Just like when I was trying to head to my last stop for a USPS Facility. I missed my turn in Atlanta, I've lived in GA all my life, but not much of the ATL area. Got myself towards a 13" 4' bridge... No way to make a u-turn. Prayed and moved to the right as far as I can, and took it REALLY slow. My GPS had a seizure at that moment. Then was able to get my ### on I20 and get back on route. Never made that mistake again when I had to go there again.
    However, when I went into a parking lot of a strip mall, came around to the stop light when I was only a few miles away, I could've turned left... BUT I obeyed a sign that said no left turn. With my luck, if I turned anyway, I'm sure I'd get pulled over. So that's how I ended up in that situation.

    Also, never take IN-160.
     
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  3. drreid1958

    drreid1958 Light Load Member

    130
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    Jul 15, 2017
    mid Michigan
    0
    Most of the time, a good truck specific nav unit like the Garmin 770 or the Rand 740 will help avoid those problems
     
    NavigatorWife Thanks this.
  4. Scvready

    Scvready Light Load Member

    231
    173
    Dec 16, 2017
    Louisiana
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    You can't read
     
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