In 30 years at this game, I have usually had the CB on to listen if something was going on down the road. I really could give a rip if the scale is open or closed, or if there is a bear in the median somewhere. And I sure don't keep a running log of this info like some do... "there is a bear at the 12, 34, 67, 73, 110, 134, 142, 176......" If I am farther than 2 hr from the last scale, it really doesn't matter if I saw it was closed or open. Lot can happen in 2 hrs. someone asks about these things, and no one speaks up, I will generally chime in and answer. When there is a lot of chatter on the CB, and I am wanting to listen to a talk show or music, then sometimes I just turn it off for a little while till further down the road and away from the truck stop CB stuff. Like others, I use it sometimes at a customer. Sometimes, if I can help, I will answer someone who is looking for best way to get into a customer. It is a tool, that's all. I never have viewed the CB as my social networking connection.
CB's are soooo cheap. You don't need a $200 unit, complete with 1000 watt kicker, and antennas that look like you are a storm chaser or coyote hunter. I can't imagine how most every driver could not benefit from one at some time or another. Some may bellyache about the "new" drivers not talking much or not having their radio on. I could care less. I am not wanting to use the thing for idle chit chat. That is what a phone and bluetooth headset are for. When asked where I am headed, I usually say "East" or whatever direction I am going. I never mention the customer I am going to or where I loaded, or what I have on. Nice way to increase risk of freight theft by blabbing that info out over the air.
