Driven Women

Turn the truck around

GG—I’ve spent the last three years running as a solo company driver, driving cross country and regional routes. The only time I was late with a load was when I had mechanical problems with the company’s truck, and I always worked when they asked me to. Over the last month I just couldn’t handle my dispatcher anymore, so I blew up at him and quit on the spot. I immediately got an offer from another motor carrier.

On my road test with the new company, I wasn’t paying attention and ran a stoplight. The instructor asked me to turn the truck around and said they couldn’t hire me. The problem is that I have two preventable and two unpreventable accidents, and running the stoplight made them a little nervous about hiring me.

GG, will I be able to sign on with another company?

Hardcore Driver, NY

Hardcore, there’s a driver shortage, so chances are that someone, somewhere will take a chance on you, but let’s look at your record from another perspective.

You, Hardcore, have had four accidents in three years and just ran a red light on a road test. Wouldn’t you agree that your driving skills are in need of attention? Wouldn’t you agree that you’re a greater risk to yourself and others?

Before you take another driving job ask yourself, honestly, is driving what I want to do? Am I good at it? If you still want to drive, then try a smaller truck and build up to the 53' condo rig.

Unless there’s minimal-to-no chance of seeing your name, or someone else’s, in the newspaper as a result of your driving skills, please seek other employment.

GG

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You can e-mail Golden Girl at goldengirl@otrprotrucker.com or mail your letter to Over the Road Magazine, P.O. Box 549, Roswell, GA 30077-0549.