After 27 years in the trucking business (owner/operator) driving all forty eight states, I offer you these thoughts:
1. lane restrictions for truck do not work----slows down all traffic, concentrates wear in the truck lanes instead of spreading it out over the others, creates unsafe environment for trucks and cars alike
2. lower speed limit for trucks (as opposed for cars)----again, restricts actual traffic flow, particularly where on/off ramps are involved, split speed limits are not safer----traffic moving at the same speed is safest
3. California has not built any "modern" highways in years, only half attempted to fix the problem with toll roads and a few highway extensions
4. Texas builds more/bigger highways when they have funds available----some of the best highways in the country, reasonable fuel tax rate/cost, relatively easy access to anywhere in the state, etc.
5. NE is a huge problem----rotten (literally) highways, always talking about "not enough money", failure to build for long term use (read: poor engineering), and too many lousy contractors
6. Midwest (Chicago)----getting more expensive all the time (i.e: high toll road rates, fuel taxes, split speed limits, etc.)
7. Louisiana----most corrupt government money can buy----no wonder their roads will literally beat your "whatever" your driving to an early death
Truck only lanes are a great idea, one who's time has come. Problem is getting governments to sanction this, without adding unnecessary expense to the trucking industry, something the government entities have been unwilling to do.
Benefits?
Many, best of which is separating cars from trucks.
Easier on the maintenance, less restrictive on the truck drivers themselves, traffic flow would be improved, and best of all-----it's SAFER for all.
regards---rhjames
