pulloffs

Pulloffs, or pull-offs, are areas along roads where vehicles may safely stop without blocking through traffic. They are common on mountain or rural highways and scenic byways and may range from paved or graded shoulders to short widened bays. The primary purpose is to provide a temporary stopping place for purposes such as letting faster traffic pass, inspecting a breakdown, or enjoying a view. Pulloffs are not intended for long-term parking or camping, and local signage or regulations may specify use limits or time restrictions. They contribute to road safety by offering an accessible space to address vehicle issues or respond to incidents without impeding travel lanes.

In music, a pull-off is a left-hand technique used on fretted string instruments, especially the guitar. It involves sounding a note on a string and then pulling the fretting finger off the string to let a lower note ring beneath it. Pull-offs are commonly used to produce smooth, legato passages and are often combined with hammer-ons and slides. In notation, they may be indicated by the term “pull-off” or by the letter “p” in tablature.

The term can also denote a withdrawal or disengagement from an activity or position, such as a tactical pull-off in military or sports contexts, meaning to retreat or disengage. While related in concept, this usage is separate from the road and musical senses and relies on context to avoid confusion.