How do I pick up the pieces?

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by Markus, May 6, 2013.

  1. Markus

    Markus Guest

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    Sep 26, 2011
    Westmoreland, NY
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    I just got fired....16 months ago, on my first and then on my 4th day...i had minor accidents. No tickets...and got a warning that I would loose my job if i had another incident in the next 2 years,
    i went 16 months with no problem....then got into a tight backing situation in Chicago...took a door off my trailer. Then... 2 days later.... Tired, bummed out...i scratched the grill of another truck in a Pilot parking lot.
    am I doomed? What can I do to get back n the road?
     
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  3. Lonesome

    Lonesome Mr. Sarcasm

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    Krap happens, but being "tired and bummed out" ain't much of an excuse. Depending on what the company you were with puts on you're DAC, you might be resigned to a bottom feeder.
     
  4. Saint Walker

    Saint Walker Bobtail Member

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    Mar 27, 2013
    Southern California
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    First of all, your not the first driver to ever be fired for accidents/incidents........You definitely wont be the last.



    That being said, you are going to need to find a company that will work with you and your driving record. Some carriers will still hire you, others wont. ITS UP TO YOU TO FIND OUT WHICH ONES THEY ARE.


    Believe it or not, from what your saying, your record really isnt that bad. 2 minor accidents in 2 years.....ive heard of worse and they were stil employed. Remember, how severe the accident is plays a part. A big part.



    You should be fine, but you have alot of work to do in finding a trucking company that will work with you. Now start looking!
     
  5. OFTOTR

    OFTOTR Medium Load Member

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    Toccoa GA
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    Is that your picture in your avatar? Nothing personal, but how old are you?
    4 minor accidents in two years is not so good.
    (I count 4, not 2)
    When I'm tired I skip the difficult parking spaces, even if it means parking in the boondocks for the night, if possible.

    Put some applications in, and see what happens. Be honest.
     
  6. Markus

    Markus Guest

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    Sep 26, 2011
    Westmoreland, NY
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    Yea...im an old guy...62. Only been driving for 16 months...
     
  7. pattyj

    pattyj Road Train Member

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    Bottome feeder if that.They may not hire him either.
     
  8. pattyj

    pattyj Road Train Member

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    Getting fired is not good in this industry.Some companies don't hire just for that reason.You got in a few accidents and that may also limit your chances.Guess just start applying and hope for the best.Don't get discouraged if companies won't hire you.You just have to keep trying.Now that you have some exp maybe try smaller companies,they have a more lenient insurance company.But stay away from the ones with bad equipment and safety.
     
  9. StayBusyTrucker

    StayBusyTrucker Medium Load Member

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    I wish people whould stop saying bottom feeder theres nothing wrong with bigger companies with newer drivers. Just apply somewhere else and leave the incidents out with 16 months you should have no problem get a job.
     
  10. pattyj

    pattyj Road Train Member

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    For ppl that drove for one of those bottom feeder companies like me,I know what theyre like.Im not bashing any new driver for starting with one of those companies.They have to start somewhere and won't find any better till they get the exp.That's exactly what they are,bottom feeder companies.Even those companies would agree.
     
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  11. sharp.dressed.man

    sharp.dressed.man Heavy Load Member

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    Dec 10, 2011
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    Is driving what you really want to be doing?

    If I was in your situation I would do some research, make a list of companies that I would like to drive for and just apply to all of them. If they turn you down you will be able to ask what it would take to make you eligible for hire by them. I agree with pattyj that getting fired might be a bigger deal than the "incidents"

    You haven't been in any major accidents, but keep in mind that there is no such thing as a minor incident with vehicles this large. If you have even the smallest sliver of doubt get out and look before proceeding. I get out and look every time unless it's an empty lot.
     
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