The CB radio has always proven to be a valuable communication tool. For many truckers, they are essential equipment needed to conduct business. It’s also important to realize that RV and pickup truck owners use them both on and off the road.
HISTORY
According to Wikipedia, the US government set a speed limit of 55 mph after the 1973 oil shortage. At the time, fuel shortages and rationing were nationwide and CB radio, Banda Ciudadana , was widely used by truckers who wanted to find service stations with the lowest gas prices and inform other drivers about speed traps. They were also used to organize blockades and convoys to protest the speed limit and other road transport regulations.
On September 11, 2001, terrorists attacked New York and Pennsylvania, and emergency services relied heavily on CB radio operators to communicate vital information. Although the Internet was not available and cell phone service was interrupted, CB radio owners were still able to communicate with each other.
In my opinion, our economy faces similar problems today. Gas prices have skyrocketed and there are more trucking regulations than ever. In addition, we must be prepared for future terrorist attacks and CB radios will continue to provide public access to the necessary communication channels to help those in need.
CB RADIOS FOR TRUCK DRIVERS
While many trucking companies make it standard practice to include a CB radio in every vehicle, others may require drivers to purchase their own. Most companies use a designated channel to inform the driver when the cargo is ready to be picked up at its destination. Since only one station can ship at a time, this is a very effective way for businesses to communicate with drivers.
Additionally, truckers rely on them as a way to communicate with other drivers. They can ask other drivers for directions and gain valuable information about upcoming traffic problems, helping them avoid accidents and delays.
Some truckers may also find them a form of entertainment when the noise of the truck makes it difficult to hear local radio channels. Just like in Internet chat rooms, the operators are often anonymous, which is good and bad. But overall, this technology is still an effective communication tool.
CB RADIOS FOR RV AND TRUCK DRIVERS
For many RV and pickup truck owners, CB radios are an invaluable communication tool. Whether you’re driving across the country in an RV or heading into the hills for a day of fun, they can provide communication links in dead areas with limited or no phone or radio coverage. Another important benefit is that there are no other subscription costs like those required by other service providers.
CB CHANNELS
CB radios offer 40-band channels. All channels except Channel 9 are used for normal communication. Channel 9 is reserved for emergencies and roadside assistance. Channels 17 and 19 are the preferred channels for truckers and are commonly known as “trucker channels”. Companies can also choose a specific channel for their employees to use.
In short, truck drivers, RVs, and pickup truck owners have found CB radios invaluable. Various styles are available and cost between $100 and $200 per unit, making them one of the most valuable and affordable communication tools on the market today.