How do OTR drivers manage Doctor appointments?

I usually get home on the date of my home time request. Now and then a day early or late.
(12 year Swiftie here.)

And I will mention that a home time request is a valid reason to turn down a load if it is heading you in the wrong direction and time is getting tight.

 

You can anticipate when your next home time should be and schedule your appointments based on that.
Then you put in your home time request starting a day or so before that, and they like at least 10 days notice.

Currently I have 128 sick hours available.
The only time I have used it was when I once injured myself while fueling. I was laid up for a few days and sat in the truck to heal a bit.
I don't recall what the hourly rate was, but it was good.

 

Are not those appointments usually scheduled weeks in advance? If so, not a problem.
If you are only given a few days notice it could be a big problem, especially if you are OTR and way across the country.

 

I’d been taking a week off, and put appts on days 3,4, and 5; that way if they get me home a lil early or late it shouldn’t affect anything…

I was recently informed that I can’t take trailers home anymore and they seemed to imply I might have to park at the yard; I don’t really like changing trucks, but it’s made me consider staying out longer and doing 2 weeks off… would be even easier to hit my appointments with that kind of window. Will just have to see how the new policy shakes out, I was confused when they sprang it on me during my last week off, I balked and insisted on at least bobtailing home.

 

I know I bleat on about‘relationships’ - but my doctor and dentist, chiropractor and skin doctor are no different to -

My mechanic, bank staff, oil guy, neighbors and friends.

Tell the ones that may not understand, the nature of your job, the appreciation you have for theirs, and schedule and reschedule as necessary.

Don’t forget them at Christmas, or any other random time.

And if it’s necessary - get off the road and take care of things until you can get back to work.

 

It depends on you home time schedule. I got home on weekends. I would schedule appointments on Monday, not Fri because I might be home Fri afternoon or Fri night. Appoints & getting packages are tough when OTR.

 

If they don't let you home on the day of or before your scheduled doctor's appointment, then you may wish to seek other employment as your current employer has not your best interest at heart.

 

@Rahat --

Yes, Swift is a good choice for a beginner.

At least 2 drivers here on the Forum have posted good, long-term experiences with Swift.

If you went with Swift, your "home" terminal would most likely be the one in Lathrop, CA:

Swift Transportation Lathrop, CA Terminal - Swift Transportation

It would probably be a really good idea to visit that terminal at some point in your spare time (if you haven't already), and talk to the terminal manager....and also some of the drivers (if any are there).

Ask questions. Lots of questions. See if you like the place, and the people.

If you do go with Swift, that will very likely be your HOME with them. So make sure the "chemistry" there agrees with you.

Should you decide to get your CDL at Swift's Academy--that will most likely instead be at their CDL school in Arizona (I think that's correct; double-check it).

My first carrier was Schneider. For you--I would recommend Swift over Schneider.

--Lual

 

Give them a 2 week, remind them a week out, then again 3 days away (IF they aren't already working you back that way). If you aren't yet scheduled for regular home time, tell them you'll be rolling after the appointment (or early next morning, depending on time of appointment).

If they give you trouble, escalate the call to their boss. If that fails call Safety (most will intervene since health is really a safety issue). Then ask for a new dispatcher.