Trying to get started...

[85sportcoupe]

Hi, folks. New to the board and have a few questions to help get me started.

I have been on Social Security disability for about ten years with a few interruptions to try to work. My only disability is my right leg (busted it up pretty good). My problem is I have no work history for the last 4 years. How can I overcome this with the employers?

Also, I'm 62. This also seems to be a problem, from what I've seen on some boards. Is it a real problem or is it my lack of a history?

Any and all responses are welcomed. Even recruiters.

[ranger309]

Well, first off have you talked to a recruiter or put some job application in yet? Needless to say most of us are drivers not employers. Most of the big boys are going to do a background check on you if you are allowed to be considered so you might as well be truthful. I'd say the big question is can youu even handle the job? Most trucking jobs are hard work and your condition may make it very hard or even impossible. You do have to pass a DOT physical too, don't forget and most companies put you through a stress testing of their own before they hire you on.

[85sportcoupe]

I don't think I'd have any problems with the job. I've already passed the DOT exam and I work out with a "homemade" stress test. In fact the only residual problem I have is an extra bone spur in my foot that hurts like hell when I have to stand for any period of time. I do have to wear a knee brace, but that really makes my knee stronger.

I have submitted a couple of apps just to get a feel for the situation and have received NO replies.

Thanks for your input. I appreciate it.

[Cerberus_Kelpie]

There are the DEADLY 5 Trucking Companies:
bj (jb) hunt, swift, schneider, werner, us express.
These are MY 5 and Yours will vary.
These are good for initial training yet they're also good for messing up ones DAC/USIS report too.

Don't take this the wrong way but some Truck Stops have Handicapped parking. I guess one qualifies the same as for 4 wheelers.

The Standing a long time in one place isn't really a problem except for the Company (or Private) Driving Academies when one is waiting ones turn at Operation Control Training, however I'm sure there are Chairs provided or one can supply ones own.

Unless you want to become an LTL or Food Service Driver, there isn't a lot of Fingerprinting Loads (Driver assist), but then it depends entirely upon WHERE one gets employed and WHAT ones Tasks are that one is employed to perform.

I Hope the BEst of WELLness 2-u-n-urs-n ALL Adventures!!

[DSutherland]

I'm new to the trucking world and I just had an interview with a company called RoadMaster Trucking School. I'm wondering if anybody has any advice on good vs bad schools to train at.

[Cerberus_Kelpie]

A GOOD school charges no more than $2,500.00.
A BAD school charges $3,000.00 to $6,000.00+.

I went to a BAD school in Goodlettsville, TN. and it cost a little over $4,000.00 but I never paid it even though I did get the upgraded License. That was in '98.

My wife went to a GOOD school in Thomasville, NC., and she paid about $2,300.00 in '99.

Check around and don't settle for the first place you call or visit.