Highly noted. Here’s the update, the doctor finally sent the form over and then they called me back said I failed my urine test and they were kicking me out. I said no way that’s not true, no way I failed my urine test. So they went back and checked and seen that I only failed a hair test and also passed two urine test. They reinstated me and made me sign a paper saying I don’t take the medication anymore. Just like that I was put into a truck with the other students.
Hair testing will not be permitted in place of urine for DOT testing for a long time. The HHS won't get behind it because they agree the science isn't sound nor fair, too many variables. FMCSA just drnied a petition to allow carriers to report failed hair tests to the Clearinghouse, which is where I am drawing my opinion that FMCSA will not be allowing hair testing in any official capacity any time soon. As for VA docs doing DOT medicals, I thought that had gone thru already. I will have to dig into what the hold up is.
Don't give up on Swift yet. They are mental about the rules and safety, which can be to your advantage. But they have to cover their own backside, especially with all the bad press. I've been with Swift just over 12 years. Some people have a bad experience, but mine has been very good. Over 40% of the drivers at my terminal have at least a million miles with Swift, and that is a lot of years at the same company for all those drivers. It isn't because we can not find work elsewhere, it is because we like it where we are at.
@Newdriver813 I'm going to echo this comment. I have a lot of friends who either drive for Swift or are in their management. The majority of the Swift jokes I get are what they send me. Don't give up!
Bleeping big uglies. They are big and they are ugly. I went through the same thing with not so swift well over 2 decades ago. My doctor was nice enough to fill out and sign the papers. If I were you I would look for another job right now ASAP !!! The problem isn’t with your dot medical card it’s with not very swift. It will not hurt you one bit to talk to some other carriers. You can also get yourself another physical. I would love to give you some advice over the phone and dig into your case a little more.
They are big and they are ugly. This won’t be the last. This is just the starting point. Only 2% of Swift last over 2 years.
I read his post too, I think but could be wrong that he was meaning 2% of inexperienced drivers that go there for training. Now, if there are 40% of those drivers who made one million miles with Swift then hats off to them.
