how to get back in the game

I've been out of driving 10 years and kept my CDL because I thought it would get me work if I needed it. Well, I need it and I can't get a look! I have read on this forum that companies aren't looking at guys like you and me as "experienced" drivers. Yeah, I know your immediate thought, but its true. I think one reason are the changes in DOT laws, logging etc..

I recently did a road test for a local company in Lynchburg, actually backed a 53'er into a slot between two trailers at a dock on the 1st attempt with no puling up to correct myself or anything, but I was grinding gears like a bad dog. (2 pounds of burger with that please) and the reviewer said I couldn't float the gears because the company set their trucks up that way,.. in short they failed me on the driving test, and that after they paid for a complete physical, drug screen, etc.!!

So I called a driving school and they said they would spend a day with me for $500 and provide a certificate on completion. But I don't know the validity of the cedrtificate with these companies or if a one day refresher class would be enough. So it sounds like a good idea but I think the companies can pick 'n choose as they like in this economy.

Plus I'm a Geezer now (reached the 60mm) and I'm not sure I could take an OTR job with a lot of lumping or tarping, as much as I like to think I'm young, I'm not! So if you and I aren't considered experienced then to better OTR jobs with no touch frieght may not be available. Just my thoughts Len

Roy

 

The insurance companies also share in this. It use to be once you had "experience" you didn't have to look too hard to find a good driving job but those day (I'm afraid) have passed. I have 30+ years as an O/O and company driver and it sounded like a good idea seven years ago to sell the truck and take it easy. Now I find the itch to get back out there but I have no recent OTR experience, I did pull a dump bucket for a local company for a while last year but that doesn't count ! I don't feel I should have to go through a driving course just to do what I already know how to do ! So, what's the answer? Anyone? Oh Roy, I'm right behind you at 58, and I consider myself middle age !!

 

I just received a reply on the other forum that for insurance purposes I would probably have to go back through a driving school,.. so my question would be is a one day "refresher" school enough at $500 or not?

Are their any insurance guru's out there who know??

Roy

 

I think that would be up to the carrier and their insurance company. It's pretty sad when someone with years of experience and knowledge is given a back seat to someone who may have just finished a driving course and has no experience is seen as a better risk ......

 

Len,

I keep hearing & reading good things about Maverick, if you don't think you'd mind tarping you might want to get with them and see what they say. If I can't find something soon I may try and call Schneider, they trained me at 1st, (and I couldn't have done as well as I did without that training) and see what they say... Thanks

Roy

 

Hi, I'm in the same boat. Drove OTR years ago, then for last 15 years drove class B trucks locally. Even tho I haven't had a ticket since 1989 and last accident was 1990, I can't get a look either. Even tried to get companies to hire me as a rookie and go through their whole training program, but they all tell me it's an insurance thing...I agree that it is sad that they will take their chances with someone that has no trucking experience at all over us.
I saw Swift or Werner mentioned in previous posts...would I have a chance to get in there? I would stick it out for the short term just to get back on the road.....
Thanks, Brian