What do you have to defend yourself?

Not over pocket change, but yeah. Simply put, compliance offers no assurance that they won't follow through. If they're brandishing a knife, they're stating that they're willing to use it. Whether they're stabbing at you or not, you are under attack that point. So, yeah, I'd respond accordingly.
Agree wholeheartedly on the matter of situational awareness.

If you're ever in Denver, let me know... I gotta get you a burrito from Mercedes Mexican Restaurant. Comparing the effects of Taco Bell to a Mercedes burrito is like comparing a water pistol to an H bomb.

As for me, I did carry a handgun.. Springfield XD45 and XD40SC, usually. I've been in A-stan and Iraq, and know what it's like to be in a firefight. I also know it's not something I want to do again, but am prepared for if I'm left with no other option. I wasn't OTR, save for two very short portions of my career, and, fortunately, never had to use such measures either OTR or driving locally. I did have to in NOLA in 2005, though.. those first couple months after Katrina were tumultuous as all hell.
That being said, I don't think it's the solution for everyone. If you're fickle in unarmed confrontations, you're going to be in an armed one. If you can't fight your way out of a paper bag, if you can't stay collected in high intensity/high stress situations, etc., packing heat will not change anything for you. Also, you need to be aware of what you're doing, your obligations in doing such, and when it's the thing to do and isn't. You need to be at your least confrontational during this time.

And, emphasizing on something that was stated before, no weapon is a substitute for situational awareness.

Other than that, I kept some pepper spray handy. A bit more purpose built and legal (i.e., less likely to find yourself getting charged for using it accordingly and less likely to be on the losing end of a lawsuit) than wasp spray. You'll notice on the cans of wasp spray it specifically states that it's unlawful to use it for anything other than its intended purpose. A criminal who tries something, gets sprayed, and gets away clean may not pursue that option against you, but one who gets caught is going to try dragging you down with them.

 

I always kept a ten pound hammer just behind my seat. But to be honest the best defense is situational awareness.

 

The only way you will ever know is of you attack me

 

I have a 7.62 gatling gun mounted behind the headlight that flips up during an attack.

Once, in S. Chicago, I just tossed a grenade satchel out the window, thwarting an enemy attack.

 

At the very least carry a blade that you can flip open quick. If your in the hood just mind your own business and act like you belong there and don't let it show your nervous. I'm a skinny 5'6 white boy and I never had any problems at night in the hoods. I've delivered all over the bronx, queens, brooklyn and baltimore without any problems. I was delivering baltimore all summer long during the riots and was never bothered. Just blend in the best you can

 

Park where there's lites,don't park away from every body because you want privacy.you can but curtains at truckstops designed for trucks if you want privacy.I did otr for nine yrs solo and ive never been attacked

 

I like to think I'm aware too,
BUT I was at the Loves in Daytona and did my pre trip while it was still dark and my spotlight

When I walk down the sidewalk, the black people cross over to the other side of the street

 

I carry my brain and I'm not afraid to use it.

 

I carry a spring loaded pocket knife everywhere i go even to church.

 

Yes