Reasonable expectations for HOS?

Starting out at $800 per week is about average, especially considering they put you through school.

If you intend to continue driving as a career I recommend putting in a year, then look at your options. This will give the company some return on their investment and give you a solid start on your resume.

It does sound like the company is clueless regarding HOS issues. It would be a good idea to voice your concerns and work with them to try and figure out a delivery schedule that is legal AND satisfies your customers.

As a driver you are the person that represents your company to your customers. Be a salesman and the eyes and ears of your company. Thank them for their business. That goes a long way to making better business.

Ultimately "have a plan, work the plan". If you want to move up in pay as a driver, then get ALL your endorsements. Figure out what you want and go after it. The highest paying jobs will be in tanker or flatbed, especially with Hazmat.

 

I would lay out the numbers, with variances for traffic possibilities as well, in an email. That way you have a record and they'll be liable if that mexican driving for them can go to hell. You have an obligation for safety, for yourself and the public. CYA and hold your head up for doing the RIGHT thing. I'm kinda concerned about this mexican driver tearing up the road to make extra money and send it back to mexico. This is a job that an honest American could be doing, how do you feel about that?

 

Well, I don't know, it sounds like they are really taking advantage of your good nature. At just 60 hours a week you are only making $13.33 per hour if you were paid straight time for all 60 hours. If more than 60 hours, it just gets worse, and they have no reason to pay any attention to when they load you, what the traffic is like, etc. because they pay the same amount no matter what happens to you out on the road.

I guess to each his or her own, but I would tell them to take that and you know what with it.

 

All in all you seem pretty content. I do agree with the ugly deal though. I would just ride it out and let the rough side drag

 

40 or so years ago things started changing in this business. Before that the average trucker took pills and ran sometimes as much as 40 hours straight. I have heard my dad talking about going from California to places like Iowa and Ohio without sleeping. Back then it was just par for the course and expected. There are still drivers out there that do that crap today. Its not smart and it has the potential to get you locked up and your company put out of business.

 

Mmmhmmm. Toothpicks, white cross an black molly

 

Nice avatar exray. You'll be getting a PM from HeWho pretty soon I reckon