A Number of Texas Truck Stops Appear on Circulating ‘Do Not Stop Here’ List

DALLAS, Texas (KPEL News) - A recent online list highlighting "Do Not Stop" locations for truck drivers has drawn attention to an escalating issue in the trucking industry—driver safety. The list specifically identifies several truck stops in Texas that truckers are being warned to avoid due to significant safety concerns.

These alerts reflect a growing awareness among drivers about the increasing risks they encounter, especially when pulling over at certain locations deemed vulnerable to criminal activity.

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Across the U.S., truckers face mounting challenges, with crime waves and mass theft becoming more frequent at truck stops. These locations, where drivers often carry high-value cargo, are particularly targeted. Criminals view truck stops as easy opportunities for theft, as trucks carrying goods often remain stationary for extended periods. As a result, drivers are urged to remain vigilant and to avoid risky areas to protect both their cargo and personal safety.

In addition to theft, there have been reports of assaults and other violent crimes at truck stops, further underscoring the need for heightened security and caution. Truckers are crucial to the supply chain, transporting essential goods across the nation, but the dangers they face on the road are increasing.

From organized crime rings to opportunistic thieves, criminals are making life more difficult—and dangerous—for drivers who are simply trying to do their jobs.

This growing concern for safety has spurred a call for better security measures at truck stops, as well as more awareness and support for truck drivers as they navigate these hazards.

According to an author at the website Boing Boing, they "spotted it on Reddit's 'Mildly Interesting' sub, where it's apparently a regular repost."

Theft at truck stops can result in significant losses for both drivers and trucking companies, prompting the need for increased vigilance and preventive measures. As such, truck drivers must remain vigilant, follow safety protocols, and carefully consider their routes and stopping points to minimize the risk of becoming victims of crime while transporting valuable goods across the country.

Heading over to the post on Reddit, the comments are quick to explain why such a list would be out there.

"It's for theft (organized theft) of High Value Loads, like a trailer full of cigarette cartons," one of the folks there explained. "Sometimes the theft starts with a corrupt employee at the weigh stations who ask 'what's in the load.' Smart drivers tell them it's 'sealed,' or 'not your concern' if they feel froggy."

"[M]any of the Love's and Pilot travel centers have HUGE lots for overnight parking," another said. "So you have a collection of drivers - usually trying to grab some rest. It's one thing to steal an item from a store, it's another level to get a full trailer load."

Truck do not stop list for USA. Highlighting where trucks and truckers are at risk.
byu/Vertigo_uk123 inmildlyinteresting

Where Are Texas' "Do Not Stop" Location?

There are a lot of locations on the list that are located in Texas - particularly in the Dallas and Houston areas.

Here's the list:

FLYING J #729
1-45 Exit 64 & Richey Rd
Houston, TX 77090

LOVE'S #913
1-20 Exit 472
Dallas, TX 75241

TA DALLAS SOUTH #5078
1-20 & 1-635 Exit 472
Dallas, TX 75241

LOVE'S #315
Loop 610 Exit 24
Houston, TX 77013

PILOT TRAVEL CENTER #375
1-610 & US 90E Exit 24A
Houston, TX 77013

LOVE'S #294
1-20 Exit 466
Dallas, TX 75232

FLYING J#726
1-20 Exit 472
Dallas, TX 75241

FLYING J #727
Hwy 281 & FM 1925
Edinburg, TX 78539

LOVE'S #419
1-45 Exit 50
Houston, TX 77009

PILOT TRAVEL CENTER #433
1-20 Exit 470
Dallas, TX 75241

LOVE'S #927
Hwy 12 Loop Exit Grauwyler Rd
Irving. TX 75061

FLYING J #1057
1305 Pasadena Freeway
Pasadena, TX 77506

LOVE'S # 327
Hwy 77 Exit FM 1898
Kingsville, TX 78363

LOVE'S #946
1-10 Exit 583
San Antonio, TX 78244

PETRO SAN ANTONIO #6305
1-10 Exit 581 at Ackerman Rd
San Antonio. TX 78219

To be clear, cargo thefts are up across the country, which is why a list like this gets circulated. What typically leads to a place ending up on a list like this are multiple reports of partially stolen or completely hijacked loads. These high-value loads can be worth a lot in terms of whatever the cargo may be, and organized crime rings would love to take advantage of such a haul.

Truck drivers can protect their high-value loads by implementing several security measures.

Firstly, they should carefully plan their routes, opting for well-lit and secure roads whenever possible. Utilizing GPS tracking systems allows for real-time monitoring of the truck's location, deterring theft and aiding in recovery efforts if necessary.

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Drivers should maintain constant communication with their dispatchers and report any suspicious activity immediately. Investing in security devices such as locks, seals, and alarms for the truck and trailer adds an extra layer of protection. Conducting thorough pre-trip inspections to ensure the integrity of the cargo area and performing regular safety checks during stops are essential.

Lastly, drivers should adhere to strict protocols for accessing and securing the load, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access or tampering. By implementing these strategies, truck drivers can significantly reduce the likelihood of theft and safeguard their high-value loads.