New to driving.. crappy equipment... questions..

You are not on logs so don't worry about it.

 

CDL, Medical Card, MVR. Shouldn't have any problems with those companies you listed. I'm just used to OTR companies because that's what I prefer.

 

Just stick it out and get at least 6 months experience. Then start applying at companies that require 1 or more years of experience. You'll be surprised how many will hire you.

 

Hey tj, sadly, as prices continue to skyrocket, small companies have no choice but to let their maintenance slide. Remember, you don't need to cross scales to get a DOT inspection. It's happened to me. And heaven forbid you get in an accident, LEO's will be all over that truck, looking for just those things. Air leaks are a huge no-no. Remember, it's your future long after the company is shut down.

 

I thought you meant when looking for a new job. Just driving, you only need your DOT medical card and CDL.

 

If its a safety issue, it needs to be fixed, for if an accident happens & its caused by the safety issue, you the driver will be in major trouble.

Driving local I had two safety issues come up, one was the steering sector, the other was a major air leak. The shop refused to fix either one. I went to my boss both times & told him, "I'm taking my stuff out of this truck, your mechanic refuses to fix the steering sector. If you want me to drive it, get it fixed & them give me a call. If its going to keep on as is get someone else"

Both time the boss had it repaired, the air leak was fixed in shop, the steering sector was out sourced.

Do not drive unsafe trucks on the public highways, its not worth the risk.

 

I sure hope you have noted these defects on your DVIR each day. If not, you alone will be held responsible should an accident occur due to these defects and your company will play dumb and show the authorities your DVIR forms listing no defects to save their own skin!

It really bothers me when I see drivers, especially newer drivers, who fail to recognize the numerous laws on the books that protect them as a driver. Do not let your personal safety and freedom take a back seat to a bunch of crooks who are perfectly fine with someone else taking the risk for their reward. Sure, taking a stand can always have a downside in the short term, but if the law is on your side, you will prevail. During my career I have gone up against a few very large corporations, J. B. Hunt and Walmart, and won. I also made it known when I was with UPS Freight I would not drive a truck with any safety defects and would pull the truck into the weigh station and have it placed out of service if needed. Safety First, Never Last...... Have a Future, Not a Past!

I wish you well my friend.