We spend a lot of our time in the driver’s seat. We navigate the ribbons of interstates and the complex asphalt jungles. Ask any driver, and you will hear a litany of familiar struggles that give some cities the distinction of being one of the worst cities to drive in. Let’s take a look at what common themes contribute to the difficulties truckers face in the worst cities to drive in.
Traffic Congestion
Navigating through highly congested cities like the New York-Boston Corridor can be a nightmare for truckers. The endless sea of vehicles not only slows down delivery times but also increases the risk of accidents and road rage incidents. Truckers often find themselves stuck in traffic jams for hours, which can take a toll on both their patience and their schedules. Planning routes to avoid peak traffic times becomes essential, even if it means driving through the early hours of the morning.
Infrastructure Limitations
Older cities such as New York and Boston weren’t built with modern trucking needs in mind. Narrow streets, tight turns, and weight restrictions make maneuvering through these urban mazes a logistical challenge. Finding suitable loading docks and parking spaces can feel like a scavenger hunt, adding unnecessary stress to the already demanding job of truck driving.
Low Clearance Hazards
Low bridges and trestles pose a serious risk to truckers. One wrong turn can lead to a catastrophic collision, not to mention the headache of rerouting through unfamiliar streets. Constant vigilance and careful route planning are essential to avoid these hazardous obstacles.
Aggressive Motorists
Some cities seem to breed a special kind of road rage, with aggressive motorists making life difficult for truckers. From cutting off big rigs to tailgating and honking incessantly, encounters with aggressive drivers can escalate quickly. Staying calm and focused amidst such hostility is crucial for truckers to ensure their own safety and the safety of others on the road.
Parking and Overnight Accommodations (link)
Finding a safe and convenient place to park overnight can be a challenge in earlier-developed areas. With limited options for truck stops and rest areas, truckers often have to settle for less-than-ideal parking spots or venture further out of the city center. This adds extra time and hassle to their journey, as well as potential security concerns for their cargo and personal safety. Even older rest areas were designed for shorter trucks than the ones used today, making the parking difficult at best.
The Best and Worst
Let’s face it, no one enjoys driving a transport in the city. With low bridges, sharp turns, one-way streets, and an overabundance of drivers, cities are less than desirable While there are a few that make the cut for “Worst City,” drivers share common sentiments about the best and worst states to drive in.
Best States
The best states drive a transport truck in (in no particular order):
- Kansas
- Nebraska
- Wisconsin
- Oklahoma
- Texas
Honorable Mention: Montana – low traffic, available amenities, stunning scenery.
Worst States
The worst states to be a truck driver in (in no particular order):
- California
- New Jersey
- Indiana
- Georgia
- Connecticut
Worst Cities
Drivers are quick to chime on the worst cities to work in, and the usual suspects top our list.
- Los Angeles
- San Francisco
- Philadelphia
- New York City
- Boston
Honorable Mention: Brampton, Ontario, Canada, with drivers declaring that Canada’s worst drivers seem to converge on the city.
