How nice is the feeling of taking the exit of the freeway and head into a Truck Stop to enjoy a delicious meal and take a comforting rest after a long and exhausting day at work. Relaxing, right? Well, don`t relax too much my friend; a large percentage of tractor-trailer accidents occur at truck stops, yards, and parking lots.

These accidents are caused by drivers lowering their guard or being very tired after a long day on the road. Heavy traffic volume and poor visibility added to the difficulty of maneuvering in these locations.

Some of these accidents occur in these areas when drivers do not estimate enough space for the trailer to turn. When they arrive at the parking lots, these areas are usually full of people coming and going (they seem to have a tired or relaxed feeling that they are not alert to traffic) and of course full of trucks and cars. Please remember that it is your responsibility to watch over them.

Be very alert to pedestrians and other drivers who may suddenly appear in front of you. It is important that, as a professional driver, you keep in mind that these places are perfect scenes for an accident. Protect your vehicle and protect yourself by following these tips:

- Entering the truck stop or parking lot: Avoid any type of distraction, use the correct entrance, drive at a safe speed, turn on the truck`s lights and also the hazard lights and constantly look around you.

- While parking: Park in well-lit places, do not park in the last spot of the parking lot. Park straight ahead and lock your vehicle securely.

- Backing up: Eliminate distractions and go back unnecessarily, use a reference guide if possible. Avoid backing up to the side of your blind spot, stay alert by observing everything around you.

- Before leaving: Do the Pre-Trip Inspection of your vehicle and do everything you have to do before starting the vehicle, such as talking on the phone, reviewing your paperwork, adjusting the radio, etc.

We hope that these recommendations are useful as you keep them in mind to avoid accidents that could cost you a lot of money as well put you out of work for a long time until insurance companies follow the claim procedures and repairs the damages.

Have a happy 2021 year filled with lots of health and success!