A Lug_Nut pet peeve. When travelling with many RV’s, 5th wheels, large class A’s and towing combinations, finding a place to stop can be challenging on many roadways. In that regard interstate highways offer the best places, the rest stop. These pull offs provide ample maneuvering space and large parking spaces for both trucks and RV’s. Additionally you can always find a little grass, designated the “Pet Walking Area” for Fido to stretch and take a potty break.
At both rest stops and Cracker Barrels, over night parking may be allowed depending on the location. Check for signage, ask the manager or inquire with the security staff if you are considering staying over night. This, of course, is the same courtesy you would use to stay in a Wal-Mart parking lot.
So, whether you need a comfort break or a lunch stop, we have these great places to safely stop with your oversizedvehicle or vehicle combination. Well, we do providing there is space left. Many times these over lengthparking spots are filled with autos and small vehicles that are thoughtlessly parked because they may be perceived to be closer to the restrooms. I have seen motor homes and travel trailers forced to move on or park on the grass shoulder towards the exit. This is due to these cars filling the only parking spots capable of holding such a vehicle. In every instance I have witnessed this, the car parking has numerous spaces available.
Likewise, the RV parking spaces at many Cracker Barrels also seem to attract these same jug heads that insist on parking their little car in these spots. About a year ago I arrived at the visitor center in the Everglades. They have several rows of auto spaces and one large RV row that would accommodate about nine rigs. I pulled in with my 45’ coach towing an extended SUV. The RV section was pretty well full, including a small car blocking the last two available spaces. The auto area was not even half filled yet this person decided to take up at least one RV space. With my vehicle combination hanging out onto the main drive-in area I approached the owner.
“Could you move your car so that I can pull in” I asked.
“When I finish eating” the slightly over weight woman that was dressed and looked like an over zealous boy scout, said in a curt manner.
By now there were cars backing up in the driveway that my tow was partially blocking. I would have to circle around the parking area and exit if I could not pull in within the next minute or so.
“I’ve kind of got the traffic stopped now, could you please move forward so I can clear the driveway? I asked, still very courteously while motioning to my towed SUV that was straddling the main inbound drive.
“Well, you shouldn’t have such a big vehicle, and it’s bad for the environment.” She exclaimed, as if it was my fault.
Finally, the woman slowly made her way back to her car. What seemed like ten minutes passed as she settled into the driver seat and stalled around adjusting the mirror, placing her lunch bag within the car and buckling her seat belt. Then she moved the car and parked in an appropriate vehicle space “Hmmmm………..For that you need to adjust the mirror and fasten your seat belt” I thought to myself. I guess I just came face to face with a Red-Neck tree hugger.
Why are these people so un-thoughtful for others or for their circumstances? Why do people not understand where they should park or not park? This isn’t rocket science here we are dealing with. Also, what’s with the attitude? Fortunately this poor attitude is not reflected on the roadway.
Well, that’s one of my pet peeves of finding a parking place with an RV while travelling. What about you? What’s your pet peeve while on the road?
Just Some Quiet Venting – Lug_Nut – Peter Mercer