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Originally Posted by sillysundy
Why do you say that? When she called, she said: "I would like to know if you have any questions and when you would like to get started".
As I said, England is one of the "bottom feeders". I won't tell you not to do that, but please keep in mind that because of their company policies and the way they treat drivers, they have a problem hiring qualified people. I would suggest that you expect the worst, and any improvement will be great.
Quote:
Originally Posted by sillysundy
I know it may not pay the most, but at least I could get my CDL and begin the long road of proving myself to the industry. I know I'm cut out for this kind of job because I love to travel and am really an excellent driver. I have tons of driving experience, especially on the highway and have even traveled long distances between states by myself in my own car. Besides that, I am good at math, can type, and am extremely intelligent. I would like to even become an owner/operator one day.
Yes, it may well be a chance for you to get your CDL, but you may also be paying for it. Not just in terms of the time you will be required to drive for them, but emotionally as well. During the time that you are required to drive for them, your dispatchers will be aware that you have little choice but to do as they say, or take on the financial burden of paying them back financially.
The next thing you'll find out is that driving your car and reading a map is very helpful, but driving a car is very far removed from driving a truck. When driving your car, no one ever told you that one eighth of a mile in front of a truck is a SUICIDE ZONE. But, that is one of the things you will soon realize once behind the wheel of one of these. If you said you pulled a large boat behind your car, it would be helpful, or one of those large horse trailers. But, a jointed vehicle, with a 53' trailer behind you is going to be very different. To your advantage, you'll be sitting up high enough to have a view of the road that you never had with your car. And, while it's true that the major amount of our time is spent in driving across states on nice highways, the biggest part of our job is maneuvering in cities and towns, and getting into a dock. In most cases, driving a car does little to give you any idea about this.
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Originally Posted by sillysundy
I'm hoping to hear back from her today. I'll keep you posted.
I won't tell you not to do it. But, I will suggest that you expect a "BED OF ROSES"...
COMPLETE WITH ALL THE THORNS. I would also suggest that you do a search of all the posts about driving on slippery roads. Also, be aware that your past record will follow you throughout this industry. You will always be restricted in who you will be able to work for. And, in the future, there may be other companies that follow the example of CFI and others, no DUI-EVER. There may be a point in the future when you will be restricted to the company that you will be working for, whether you like it or not.
I won't tell you not to do it. You've already put yourself in a position that reduces your options. And, England knows that. You may expect them to use that to their advantage.