Tips for driving a rental truck
Even though driving a rental truck yourself can be a great way to save money on a move to or with in Gainesville, it can also seem like a intimidating task if you are not use to driving a truck. Regardless of which rental truck service you decide to use, the trucks are mostly the same. While these trucks do not require a special license they do require you to drive more delicately then your typical passenger car.
Stay slow, stop slow. Remember the vehicle you are driving is significantly heavier then the typical vehicle you drive. It is a great idea to practice diving your rental truck before you load it. Remember once you load your rental truck it will take even longer to stop because of the additional weight. In general, it is a good idea to allow at least five vehicle lengths between you and the vehicle ahead of you. Also, don’t brake and turn at the same time – instead, brake, release, and turn. Do not attempt to pass a vehicle on hills, curves or moving faster than 40 mph. Also never use the passing lane on an interstate highway. You may be anxious to get to your new home or apartment, but it is always better to arrive safe then early.
Wide turns, signal early. Your rental truck is considerably longer and wider then what you are custom to driving. The additional width and length of the truck requires more turning area. Always use your turn signal in advance. Brake before a turn and position the truck on the outside of the lane. Release the brake and slowly make your turn. Avoid making sudden stops or abrupt lane changes. If you miss your turn or it comes up sooner then expected, pass it and circle back to where you need to be.
Avoid & minimize backing up. If you don’t have to back up then don’t do it. Look for parking where you can pull through or park across multiple parking spots in the back of a parking lot. If it is unavoidable to back up, ask someone to direct you from the side at the rear. Be sure to use your vehicle mirrors. Again, trucks are wider and longer than cars.
Know your height and pay attention to signs. Remember to pay attention to road signs pertaining to trucks. This includes obeying truck or lane restriction signs and overhead clearance postings. Watch out for signs prohibiting truck traffic. Beware of tree limbs, overpasses, bridges, drive-thru restaurants and banks, and parking garages. It is a good idea to tape a reminder on the windshield of the truck with the height of the truck written on it. Some states require rental trucks carrying household goods to stop at weigh stations. Pay special attention if you are traveling through multiple states. Before you leave check with the state’s Department of Transportation before you begin your journey. You can often find this information online. If in doubt, stop.
If you are use to living in a flat state such as Florida you may forget the rules of parking; however, with such a heavy vehicle it is vital you follow these rules. When parking with the truck faced downhill, turn the wheels in toward the curb. Set the emergency brake every time you park. Turn the wheels away from the curb when parking with the truck faced uphill. Practicing these basic driving habits gives everyone else on the road sufficient warning of your intentions and helps prevent accidents.
