Staying safe while on the road is challenging for truckers, which is why a growing number of professional drivers now carry firearms. Driving with a firearm in your truck involves more than just obtaining a permit in your home state-here are some things you should know before traveling with weapons.
Reciprocal Carry
The first step you should take is to determine which states recognize your concealed carry permit. Visit the USA Carry website and click on your state to view an interactive map of other states that allow reciprocity. This will give you a good idea as to where you can safely travel while carrying a weapon.
In addition, the following states allow anyone who is legally authorized to carry a firearm to do so without a permit:
- West Virginia
- Vermont
- Mississippi
- Maine
- Kansas
- Arizona
- Alaska
Crossing State Lines
There may be times when you must enter a state that does not honor your permit. In most instances, you may nonetheless have your weapon in your vehicle, provided you:
- Are just passing through, and plan to make only minimal stops for gas, restroom breaks, etc. If you are staying overnight or visiting a tourist attraction, you may not be eligible.
- Keep your weapon either unloaded and cased or locked up in an inaccessible location such as the trunk of your car.
- Store ammunition separately.
Of course, laws in individual states may vary, so it is always best to check with law enforcement before entering a state that does not offer reciprocal carry.
Staying Protected
Aside from carrying a weapon for self-defense, you should also protect yourself by having the right insurance policy. For help in determining which one is best, please contact us.
