Past back injury - Impact on trucking jobs?

Why would they even find out if I had a case or not if it hasnt been closed than it shouldnt be on recored yet I wouldnt think...and what kind of record would they find this on anyway?

 

It would be on your medical record. It's always best to be honest about it, as if you leave it out, and they find out later they see it as a lie.

 

Medical reports, court documents. I believe you said you were in a auto accident originally....bet they have a police report on it.
Honesty would be the best, I'm thinking. Tell them about it, and if it's no problem then you're good to go.
Lie about it and get caught, and you're now damaged goods and a liar.

 

Ok I hear ya on the hoesty thing I am know angel but I'm not not a liar!!! Im just asking!! There is a BIG Differance between Lieing and not reporting somthing that is a non-issue to you...If you can do the dot phys. I mean is'nt that what thats for to be sure you can do the things for the job?
They go that detailed int your life? I guess what I'm sying is no wonder thers a shortage on drivers. Now I would understand if like say City Employment and you want to be a dich digger or construction where your always lifting and bending I could see where some of that might play but thats what Doctors are for.. to tell you that you are or are not fit to do the job right?

 

As long as you can pass the DOT physical, it won't be a problem. My hubby has 2 herniated, and he had no problem.

I use to drive, but because of disc degeneration (entirely different that herniated discs) I can't drive any more. I would still be able to pass the physical, but my back can't handle being in the seat of a big truck any more. Eventually, I will have to have surgery, which I am not looking forward to.

 

I believe there has been places on applications that ask questions about any health issues that might effect the job performance.

For instance, the company may assume to have the driver unload the truck. Someone with back problem issues could be a problem. However, if documented, the company would be aware up front.

 

Here's the deal. If it's recorded anywhere AND they ask tell them. By all means do not divulge information that you we're not asked. I've seen a few job applications that ask if you've ever had a workman's comp filed or have you ever been treated for back problems. If you lie and they find out your driving career will be over. If you tell them the truth they may ask you to go into detail and you might be ok anyway. What the main point is DO NOT LIE on a job application. Just because the DOT Doctor doesn't catch the problem doesn't mean you're in the clear. Most of them do not know all the regulations they must follow anyway.

 

Quoting from my long form physical, under the driver questionaire...

Any illness or injury in the last 5 years?
Spinal injury or disease?
Chronic low back pain?

And under the doctors certification section....

11. Spine, other musculoskeletal...Previous surgery,deformities, limitation of motion, tenderness.

 

I've seen that on applications before too. It's been a nightmare for me, because the only thing that will 'fix' my problem is surgery, but it's not to the point where I need surgery (It hasn't progressed far enough yet). I haven't been able to get a job because I have to list my problem as I had to leave my last job because of it. It was an office job. It's been very frustrating, but I have finally found something that I can do from home as a self-employed person.