Lookin' to get back on the road

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by MatadorGary, Apr 10, 2025.

  1. MatadorGary

    MatadorGary Bobtail Member

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    Hi, everybody. I'm new here to the forums. So, during the pandemic I was between jobs and decided to pursue truck driving. I attended probably the most well-known trucking school in the country, and I did graduate and got my CDL. Unfortunately, in the second phase of my training they paired me with a bad teacher which resulted in me getting into a few PVFO (Parked Vehicle Fixed Object) accidents. I ended up getting let go after just 7 months and came to learn later that my OTR trainer lost his teaching gig also. That was back in 2021, and I think my driving record is cleared. Now trucking was never a dream of mine, but during those 7 months on the road, driving an 18-wheeler got in my blood. After four years, I'm eager to see the country again, but I need re-training, Does anybody know of a good, affordable school with a refresher course, preferably near me? I live in Las Vegas, Nevada.
     
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  3. lual

    lual Road Train Member

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    You think your record has cleared?

    Have you seen/checked a recent copy of your MVR?

    Have you looked recently at your DAC report?

    Better look at those....before applying anywhere.

    Also: can you pass a DOT physical?
    Urine specimen? Hair follicle?

    -- L
     
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  4. Moosetek13

    Moosetek13 Road Train Member

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    So...
    Trucking as a side line job.
    Blaming the teacher for a 'few' accidents with parked vehicles or fixed objects.
    You do know that those things are not moving and you, as the driver, are supposed to watch out for that kind of thing... right?

    I kinda hope you don't get another driving job.
    Because I like my truck, and my life.
     
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  5. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    MatadorGary Thanks this.
  6. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Western Express is a 2nd chance company and might hire you.
    Western Express
    Western Express offers reliable and customer-focused transportation solutions across the U.S. with over 3,600 power units and 9,500+ trailers. Learn about their equipment, locations, career …
     
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  7. Iamoverit

    Iamoverit Road Train Member

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    Blaming the instructor for your lack of awareness is really lame.
     
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  8. MatadorGary

    MatadorGary Bobtail Member

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    Apr 4, 2025
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    Thanks. That's helpful.
     
  9. MatadorGary

    MatadorGary Bobtail Member

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    Apr 4, 2025
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    Thanks. That's helpful.
    Thanx, Lual. Just requested both reports. Wish me luck. And yes, I passed DOT physical in November of 2023. Urine specimen. Yes. Don't know about the hair follicle though.
     
  10. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Western Express does not do hair follicle drug test. Urine test only.
     
  11. MatadorGary

    MatadorGary Bobtail Member

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    Apr 4, 2025
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    Like I said, the teacher eventually got fired, too. Yes, I could've been more patient in those parking lots, but other truckers and even some dock workers weren't patient or willing to help me, either. I just need a trainer who'll guide me in how to maneuver a trailer right this time.
     
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