This is the first comment on this blog. This is a test to verify operation of this blog.
--Old-timer
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

I am very interested in trucking and have a few questions.
1) Who are the best companies to work for as far as hiring new long haul drivers?
2) Would you adivse someone to look into becoming an O/O?
--Drew
<mailto:drewblood12000@yahoo.com>

Hi Drewblood,

The best companies to work for are the ones that pay the highest pay scale and have the most benifits. It really all depends where you live.

Again being an o/o is like buying into a job. Unless you have a sweetheart contract with someone and you are assured a profit. Even then the o/o spends a lot of his free time doing work on his truck or trailer. Here again it depends if you can't find a good job in your local area. You really have to be dedicated to be a successful owner operator.
--Old-timer
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

hi dick, my name is dawn. i hit a low bridge last night here in chicago. ive been driving for less than one year. there wasnt a report written up by the officer nor was there a citation issued. what i learned out of this is when you dont have proper support call 911. my question is; what now? how will this affect my record as a driver applying for other jobs in the future? thanks for creating this site!
--dawn

Hi Dick, my name is Melissa. I am interested in a career change and wanted your opinoin on a female becoming a truck driver. I'm 36 years old and have a great driving record. I have driven a dump truck before, not very far, helping my boyfriend at his job backing up the truck about 100 yards or so but also wanted to know how I can find a local job say driving a dump truck. I don't want to ask my boyfriend just yet, he probably wouldn't like the competition. :) Any information would be appreciated!! Thanks!
--Melissa
<mailto:missmel1970@yahoo.com>

Hi Dawn,
I know Chicago very well and you are not the first to hit a low under pass in the Windy City. It is an accident and will be treated as one on your record. I have only one bit of info for you and that is, "Whenever in doubt--don't do it." Dawn always be sure, never, never guess. It's like when you want to pass on a two lane or any highway always KNOW that you can safely make your pass or DON'T DO IT! Practice safety every day in every way.
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

Hi Melissa,
I see nothing wrong about you becoming a truck driver. You have a clean MVR so that is in your favor. I don't see how you can keep this idea from your boyfriend. In fact you probably can use his help. If will help you then go for it. I have known many women drivers and they did their job very well. If you want to search for yourself start making applications on a local basis. What have you got to lose? You don't have much experience but some one may admire your determination.
Good luck to you and am pleased you want to become a truck driver.
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

Hey there Dick! I just wanted to say what a great thing for you to do, helping out others in this industry! Being a trucker's wife, I know how the lifestyle can be, and I think it is great that you are upfront and straightforward with your information, helping people to make an informed decision. If you don't mind, I would like to post your link on my site, I think many people can benefit from it. Keep up the good work!!
--Becca
<mailto:becca@truckerangels.net>

Hello Dick Lower

My website no longer exists: www.alljosh.info

If you could please remove the dead link.

Thanks

Josh

Thanks Becca for the good numbers you put on World of the Truck Driver. A trucker's life is difficult at best and especially for the women. Women drivers or the roll of a wife and at times both, the women in trucking are very special people.

Thanks Becca
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

Hu josh,

Thanks for the info about your link. I will remove the link today.

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

Hu josh,

Thanks for the info about your link. I will remove the link today.

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

Sorry! I don't know how I got to entry's posted here.

Becca you have permission from World of the Truck Driver to post the link on your web site. Thanks again for the good words.
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

How much man to man sex is happening on the road and in the life of a truck driver?

Hi Dick, I'm a single woman trying to become a truck driver, I;m 5ft tall, do you think I would have a problem driving a truck? It probably sounds silly to you, but I really have the determination to do this.
--changetray

Hi Changetray,

You have the determination and that is all that is necessary. I have seen women only 5 feet tall and they have been very good at what they do. They made modifications to the truck they drove such as the pedals, seat and etc. Whatever it takes to get the job done.
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

Hi Dick, My husband has a CDL-B and has been driving a dump truck for a paving company. This is great but the company is really unreliable. He went today to get his A permit. He has contacted several well known companies in the area about employment, but they all say they only hire from the local teamsters. He called the teamsters and they gave him a list of companies and said to call them. How do you get into a union job?! Any advice you can give would be helpful.
Thanks
Sandi
--Sandi
<mailto:jacob1116@comcast.net>

Hi Dick,Iwould like to drive a dump truck,but everywhere i go i need experiance what company will give me a chance.
--Anonymous
<mailto:Bergeson4@comcast.net>

Hello
I have been checking out your web site and I thought you might like my web site its all about the Australian Road-Trains the longest trucks on earth.
Thank you for your web site.
Kingsley Foreman...
http://outbacktowing.tripod.com
--kingsley foreman

Hi Sandi,
It all depends on how badly they need drivers. If your husband can get on with one of the companies the Teamsters listed for him then he will have to join the union. So that will take care of that. Then he can pay is union dues the first few months that he works. It is sort of a catch 22 thing, you have to belong to the union to get a union job but you got to have a job to get into the union. Give you husband the good numbers from me because he is on the right track.. Keep at it and he will make out alright.

The best to the both of you.

Dick Lower
World of the Truck Driver
--Dick Lower (webmaster)
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

Dear Anonymous,
I don't know where you work or live at but it is sort like Sandi's question. You are right about experience so that means you are going to look for some place that will work you on part time basis. You will work for less money but then the experience you gain will offset the money. Untill you find where you can get some experience it is going to be difficult. Keep at it though and try for the extra boards, that is part time work with different companies. You might try some independent operators, you know some one who owns their own rig--they may give you some work.
Good Luck.

Dick Lower
World of the Truck Driver
--Dick Lower (webmaster)
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

Hi Kingsley Forman,
I went to your web site and it was awsome. Everyone here should see what you have put together. The most amazing sight was the Road-train that was 79 trailers long in Brouke Australia. It is unbelievalbe a truck had enough power to pull them! The only thing I noticed that was something like Oklahoma here in the states and that was the red dirt on some of the dirt roads. Oklahoma and some of the wester states have that color dirt.
Thanks for a great trucking web site--it is hard to top the pictures you show.
I send all the good numbers your way and wish you all, "Happy trails where ever you may travel".
--Dick Lower (webmaster)
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

In two weeks I graduating from trucking school. When looking at a company to go with. What the most inportant thing I need to watch from these company that offering all this stuff?

Dear Anonymous,

dMake a list of items that you are interested in and that is what you look for. For example: time at home, miles you run each week, pay for loading and unloading, do you get paid for breakdown time, how about life and health insuranse? There are a lot of things to look for especially just starting out. If you are just a driver make your list and then start looking. If you are an IO then you got more questions to ask and they are too many to list here. Good luck and happy trails to you.
Dick Lower
aka old-timer
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

Hi dick, Long time no talk! I see your sie is stil linked to my "The Trucking Life". I thank you for that. How are you doing these days? I have been off in another world these past 3 years. 'Retirement Floundering' you might call it. Have sold condo, relocated in an old (like me!) small(unlike me!) motor home but for now,, am visiting my dghtr in Chicago. Is that far from you? Don't know how often ou check this so I will E you separate from this method. sincerely, Ellen McCoy
--Ellen McCoy
<mailto:unrealmccoy@hotmail.com>

Hey Dick, I am a computer programmer due to retire in 8 years but I would like mixing retirement with a way to travel that finances itself. I plan to buy my own rig? What are all the obstacles to overcome? Thanks for creating this blog!
--CAP
<mailto:gawiles@ureach.com>

Mr. Cawiles,

Thank you for visiting World of the Truck Driver. You are a computer programmer and you wish to travel as a truck driver. Those two jobs are quite a distance apart in many ways. I don't have space enough here to list all the obstacles you will come upon. It all depends just how much you wish to do this.

Becoming a truck driver sounds like a great idea until the day you must leave and there after thirty days later you will know if you made a mistake.

It doesn't matter how nice, how big of a truck or how much money you pay for your rig, after thirty days on the road it will just be a damm old truck.

Maybe it would be a good idea to just become a driver first before you commit to purchasing an expensive rig. I suggest go to work for some body as a company driver and in that way you will get a feel for the industry of trucking. Unless you got something going for you I strongly suggest become a driver first before you buy a rig.

Thanks for visiting World of the Truck Driver. Happy trails to you where ever journey takes you.

Dick Lower
webmaster
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

hello der i am a youn man and im woundering if you can send me imfo on driving a mack truck please,thank you

Dear Anonymous,

Why just a Mack Truck?

Dick Lower
aka-oldtimer
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

I have a question pertaining to the Cherokee portion, there is no link to ask questions there, I have family on the Cherokee side from Wayne County and Springfield, Illinois and Indiana before that. Is your Cherokee side from there also? I am always searching for my family. Thanks!!
--Erika
<mailto:sunshinegeebee@yahoo.com>

Hello, I am writing to this site because I want to know the best way to get into trucking but just locally. I have 2 school aged children and can't do over the road except in summers when they are gone!

Thanks for any pointers you can give!

Erika
--Erika
<mailto:sunshinegeebee@yahoo.com>

Hello Sunshine

Your question about Cherokee ancestry is not clear. Grandfathers came from around central Illinois however before that they came from West Virgina and North Carolina. You may expand your search by seeking out the Native American Church of East Peoria, Illinois. It is a Christian church with people from many different tribes and most are mixed blood. You may contact me at my e-mail; dlower@grics.net

Thanks,

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

Hello Erika,

You ask a very good and natural question. You are right to seek out local job because it would me much too difficult to take a road job with your two children, small or not. You didn't say if you already have your CDL? If you don't of course that is your first move. If you don't then it depends if you can afford the price to go to school to get your CDL. If you can't afford to pay for the school I would suggest to contact someone in your local county government becaue they may be able to assist you. If there is a local College near you and they offer a truck school call them and they may direct you to the person to talk to. Some counties offer schooling just so you can get a job. If not that hen find someone local who will sponsor you, or help you get your CDL with the idea that you might work for them.
I hope this helps you in some way. Good luck and happy trails to you Erika.

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

HELLO IHAVE A QUESTION I RECENTLY MOVED TO NH FROM MASS I HAVE BEEN DRIVING TRUCKS FOR A WHILE NOW AND WANTED TO START DRIVING FUEL OR OIL TRUCKS PART TIME SO I ADDED HAZ-MAT AND THEN I TOOK THE WRITTEN TEST FOR TANKERS AND WHEN THE CKERK SAID I PASSED SHE ASKED ME WHEN WOULD I LIKE TO SCHEDUAL MY ROAD TEST SO SHE THEN TOLD ME THAT IN NH TO ADD THE TANK ENDORSMENT YOU NEED TO BRING A TANK TRUCK THAT IS HALF FULL AND I WILL HAVE TO PERFORM THE PRE CHECK AND DRIVING TEST AND THEY GAVE ME ONE YEARR TO DO THIS SO MY QUESTION IS HAVE YOU EVER HEARD OF THIS AND IF SO DO YOU THINK I CAN SOME HOW GET A WAIVER FROM THIS ROAD TEST BECAUSE I CANT GET A 1/2 FULL TRUCK OF FUEL BEACAUSE POTENTAIL EMPLOYERS KEEP SAYING THEY CAN NOT HELP ME THANKS MIKE
--MIKE
<mailto:CHAREST0711@AOL.COM>

Hello Mike,

In the state that your getting your new certification you must perform as they require. I have only one suggestion for you with regard to your taking the road test per a loaded tanker.

When it is time for you to drive one of these fuel tankers the company that hires you to do this will suppy you with the necessary equipment.

What you are doing is trying to get the certification first and then get the job. In your case you will have to get the job of driving a tanker first then take your road test with the equipment of those that hire you.

In many of the cases drivers already have a job driving for someone and they are required to get new certification for hazmat so the company they work for allows them to take their truck to upgrade their CDL.

Hazardous hauling is a very complexe cetification and in each state you will find laws and regulations you must adhere to. In many states you are required to be registered to haul hazardous material or you cannot deliver ect. Manufactures will require you to take training course through their safety department so you as a driver can do business with them in a safe manner.

Each state is very specific in what they want and you are required to know and understand what they want. Fines are enormous for failing to know the laws.

So what you are asking and wanting to do is enter the world of hazardous hauling so don't expect anything easy. Some one must have a need of your service and then they will help you through the maze of requirments for hazmat.

I hope this helps you some because I want you to know the difference bettween just driving a truck and being certified to haul hazardous material and or liquid products. There isn't any second chance with this certification because it can cost you your life and even those around you.

So don't be in a hurry Mike, if it is to be that you are to transport fuels somebody will hire you with that in mind and everything will work out alright in a safe and good way.

Happy trails to Mike and may your journeys always be safe.

Dick Lower
World of the Truck Driver
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

Hi Dick,
Although im new to Canada i have 18 years experience of trucking in England and Europe.I have my AZ licence,a valid work permit,Clean drivers abstract,clean police crimminal record search,bondable. Ive been in Canada for almost a year and still the Human Recources refuse to let any employer hire me,in the event of me taking a job from a Canadian,i fully understand the concept of this as they do the same in England.However,i understand i may need to join the truck driver union...could you please help me accomplish this and finaly get that elusive job.I dont wish to give up and return back to England.....please help with any advice you may have...thank you.
john.
--john
<mailto:foden1234@hotmail.com>

Hello John,

You have presented me with something I know nothing about. I don't understand what the "Human Recouces" are that stops you from working? If it helps by joining a Union then do so. If you can get into the Union?

I don't know if we have Canadian readers viewing this board or not. If so, maybe it is possible that someone can answer your question. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.

Best of luck on your search.

Dick Lower

--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

'Keep Right' could be the national anthem of independent truckers.

Watch the country music video on www.youtube.com

You can go to youtube and enter Keep Right
or here is the link

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McJ4Yy5ZNeU

Remember Keep Right!

'Keep Right' could be the national anthem of independent truckers.

Watch the country music video on www.youtube.com

You can go to youtube and enter Keep Right
or here is the link

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McJ4Yy5ZNeU

Remember Keep Right!

Hi Anonymous,

I followed the link to, "Keep Right" however there may be something missing? It had nothing to do with trucking!

What was the point here or is this just a bunch of nonsense?

Dick Lower

--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

How high is turnover in trucking? I've read some boards claiming certain companies who train you for your CDL have astranomical turnover rates (Swift was the example).
--Steve

Hello Steve,
What you are speaking about has been a problem in trucking for some time. Some companies or peoples
take advantage of new drivers. You will soon learn how to spot these companies or people. As to what companies do this I cannot say. There are too many trucking companies today to even mention them all.

Happy trails where ever your journey takes you.

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@grics.net>

Hello Again, Mr. Lower,

There was another important question I was meaning to ask you last post: How did you keep focused on the road over long periods of time?

Things like lack of sleep and lack of exercise are great concerns to consider before pursuing a career as a truck driver.

What did you do on and off the road to keep yourself motivated and at attention?
--Steve

Hi Steve,

Good questions! Keeping focused isn't too difficult because you have got your hands full and a lot of responsibility so you are more aware of your enviroment. It's not like driving a car where you are more relaxed layed back just enjoying your drive. Driving a truck is much different as you will see if you choose to do so. It gets so you can drive more natural than walking. The machine becomes part of you.

Exercise is something that comes with the job if you choose the correct kind of trucking to do. If you just want to drive--drive 500 to 600 miles a day--day in and day out then you must make time to get exercise. Park away from the restraunt so you will have to walk. Allow yourself time to rest, even if its just a 20 minute stop. I used to like to load my truck just to get the workout. However load your truck and then drive a full trip is pretty tough on you plus you will most likely run over on hours. Some jobs are pedal runs and you may have to unload 6 to 15 times or more on your trip. Just make sure you get a shower and your rest.

If you get sleepy, I mean real sleepy--try singing to yourself--sing loud--nobody can hear you but yourself. This will deliver oxygen to your brain. Talk on the CB radio--that's one of the benifits of the CB, it helps keep you awake.

Motivation! Just enjoy your work, your job and the freedom of the open road because you will fall in love with the most beautiful women in the world--Mother Earth--She is awsome.

Happy trails to you Steve on what ever pathway your journey in life takes you.
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@insightbb.com>

Hey Dick, my name is Zach Bridgeman. A few years ago I was convicted of a felony, and would like to know if there is any advice you can give me on how I can still pursue a job in trucking?

Hello Zach,

First of all Zach if you don't have a CDL you should first get it. One thing certain is that you can't drive unless you have the CDL.

The last company I worked for there were several guys who were ex-cons. I'm sure it will limit you to some jobs where security is tight or whatever the reason however there are a lot of jobs out there for you if you go after them. Main thing is don't hang your head and give up.
We all make mistakes Zach, it's up to you and the effort you put forth.

Get your CDL then see what happens.

Happy trails to you Zach where ever your journey in life takes you.
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@insightbb.com>

Hello, My bother is just starting with a trucking company. They are "pushing" the new people to do the "lease their trucks" deal. Is this wise? Why do the companies want the drivers to lease? Is it because the driver is more liable? What would be his best move? Thanks Concerned Brother
--Concerned Brother

Concerned Brother,

This is just another way companies have of getting drivers to hire on. To some this is a great opportunity..however, watch out!

There are a bundle of loop-holes that can tie you up for a long time or ruin you financially from these lease operations.

I for one never did trust them nor wanted all that obligation that came with a lease. You did your own work on your truck, paid for your own oil and service, provided your own insurance and the list goes on an on!

If your brother has a choice of just taking a job as a truck driver or as an independent (lease operator) I would recommend taking the job as a truck driver. As just a truck driver you are looking for insurance for your family, not your truck. The truck is theirs! You are looking for a retirement program for yourself as a truck driver.

If your brother is just starting out in the trucking world I would never recommend a lease program.

The big problem with these programs is that the company can begin to shorten your miles to run and you find yourself on the short end of the stick. As a driver you just go look for another job..not so with the lease programs and no matter how they build the story the company has all the advantages going for them.

To be an I/O you better have some experience and knowledge to go along with it plus some operating cash.

So--to be or not to be-- to be a driver or be an I/O?

If your brother's choice is to lease then be sure he has a way to escape from it if things don't work out for him.

Happy trails to you and merry Christmas.

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@insightbb.com>

This post is not working!

OK, now it is good to go! It had to be reactivated...it will now accept your postings!
Dick Lower...webmaster
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@insightbb.com>

Hello Dick, I've been a trucker "wanna-be" for a couple of years now. I almost signed up with CR England a couple of years ago but had to bow out while I got control of a health issue. I'm looking at starting a carreer in trucking, once again but I've got to ask you, staight-up. Am I dreaming a "pipe dream" if I'm thinking I can trade in a apt. rental payment and just live mostly out of my truck for a couple of years. I'm thinking that I can make some serious "Bank" by not having the everyday rent and utility payments.
--espo
<mailto:respo@q.com>

Hello Espo,

You would not be the first to think of this kind of life. It is done all the time far as I know. There isn't any stats on percent of drivers that live out of their trucks but I know it has got to be a lot of them.

If you are single and got the "lust" for the highway and byways it is a life of never ending white line adventure. Sure you can save some dollars but will you? You may very well get hooked on being a trucker and I say, "once a trucker always a trucker".

I used to stay on the road two or three weeks at a time however that is the way the job took me.
I would have never opted to do that because I had a wife at home. However I didn't have to stay out like that for months on end.

Then again the trucks today have their apartment attached to the cab... even curtains, some even put flowers in them, a pet however don't matter what you do, how big your apt is, how much money you spend on it, after thirty days on the road it is still nothing other than a damn ole truck.

Happy trails to you...go for it..

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@insightbb.com>

Hello Dick,
Thanks for the words of encouragement. If you don't mind I'll give you a shout every now and then and let you know what direction I've started in.
Enjoy your retirement and keep up this great website, I for one really apreciate it.
Espo

Espo,

10-4 and all the good numbers back to you driver.
Give me a shout anytime, I would like that. I have an idea you will enjoy your life as a truck driver. Remember, safety first is your first priority. Make safety a habit it will keep you and everyone else safe.

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:dlower@insightbb.com>

Hello!

Hello Dick, Like your site. My name is lorie Smith from Homosassa Springs, FL i have been in trucking since i was born. family drug me up that way. i own a truck now. on strike right now too. i sure do hope things get better. glad to hear you are retired.

Hi Lorie,

Thanks for the good numbers! I understand family brought you up to be a trucker. To many trucking is more of a life than a job. It seems that is the way for you.

Thanks for stopping by and happy trails to you Lorie.

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:d.lower@comcast.net>

Hi Dick
I drive a school bus for a living not a truck however I hope you or one of your visitors can help. I am attempting to locate my 72 yr old friends dad. He wasn't raised around him so we know little. We know that he was a truck driver in the 1930's thru the 80's or 90's. In the early years he worked for a company out of Houston, Texas hauling pipe. So my question is this: Can you think of any organizations, businesses or union?? that may have any old records to help us out? Dead or Alive we'd like to find him. Thanks for all your help.
--Paula
<mailto:paulabbyles@yahoo.com>

Hi Paula,

The most easy way is to look him up in the social security index. Just google social security and then look up your friend.

I would do that first...

I hope this helps you.

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:d.lower@comcast.net>

Hi Mr. Lower,

It's me again, Abet, from the Philippines.

I must admit it was only a while ago that I was able to completely surf your site (including the links). I'm sorry to hear about what happened to your wife in 2003. God bless her soul.

I was awed by the thoughts you shared about your grandfather. About sharing. It's all about humility and that's good thing. Everytime he receives something for himself, he makes it a point to acknowledge it by way of sharing a portion back to the source - Nature itself (and indirectly, to the Provider). You know what, I share this principle to my family, especially to the kids.

I've got three kids ages 7, 13 and 17 and they're always excited about whether there is an email coming from you. Sometimes we discuss these points during mealtimes whenever we are complete at the table.

Me and my wife plan to go to the States either by June or July. Our tentative itinerary is: San Jose, California (this is where my brother stays), South Carolina (a cousin lives here), Virginia Beach (an uncle is here), New York (an Aunt) then cross to Toronto (where another brother of mine is). The closest that I can be near your place geographically is Virginia Beach, I suppose(basing on the map of the U.S.).

Well at least I can have a taste of the sights first hand and not thru pictures this time.

Happy trails and good numbers to you.

So long...

Abet
--Abet
<mailto:trampeabet@yahoo.com>

ttruck drivers union,independent,company or any truck driver in the U.S.A. better get together and let america know with out us this country will not last. we should all shut down and show this goverment that they might be powerful now but without us they are doomed. I would like to see all truck drivers in america take a stands and stop work for 2 days then see what they will due about the fuel and gas cost.
--a fellow driver

Dick I just sent my view about all truck drivers getting together and stop work for 2 days. I would hope you might be able to get my message out to as many drivers as you can.
--fellow truck driver

Hello Driver,

I can feel your frustration concerning the cost of fuel. What you are suggesting would be very effective, however it will never be implemented. As drivers we have very little say in matters as the subject of stopping freight. It used to be implemented when the Unions were stronger. However during President Reagan's time he broke the Unions power.

Now they fire anyone who does not follow the rule of the day. There fore Companies, Corporations and Associations have the power to call for such drastic measures but they can't and won't do it.

Independent Operators have tried this shut-down move but even among their ranks only a few are brave enough to dare such a move. It generally winds up that a few pays the price for everyone and the shut-down fails.

It appears that this problem is not only in the United States however it is world wide!

The problem is power and greed! Power and greed knows no allegiance to any country.
--Dick Lower
<mailto:d.lower@comcast.net>

Dick, I have a dream of becoming a truck driver and doing it right. I am 43 years old and could use your advise. I will obtain a CDL sometime this year.I am all about family and would like to drive truck, be under a union and be home each night/day. Any hope/suggestions for me? California is a mess with all those Mexican trucks that are flooding into the U.S from Mexico by the thousands. I am a former Marine and Customs officer. All American. Thanks. Jeff

Hello Jeff,

Jeff being in the service you know all about being away from home. Good choice to stay at home. You described to me that you have a desire to be a local driver. That will keep you home each day, but your hours may not be what you want. You could live with that, so the type of truck you want to choose for local hauls are straight trucks, tankers, city delivery or even semi's on local hauls.

I don't know anything about the "Shakey Side" where you live. However, the Industry needs truck drivers in a big way. You should find some of the companies that just do local hauls.
You stated you desired a Union job so make that your first target, look for companies where labor is organized or have a Union. It may not be Teamster but just so it is Union.

If you can't find Union then look into companies that match Union jobs. Treat finding your trucking job like a job and you should do well.

Construction equipment may be your choice or what about working for the city or state? Whatever you do Jeff, happy trails to you on your journey.

Good choice to stay home with the family.

Dick Lower


--Dick Lower
<mailto:d.lower@comcast.net>

I had sent an email and have not seen it posted on your web site. Are you still taking emails or are you selective about subject matter. I am trying very hard to find a solution I can give to my son.

Ruth
ann
--ruth ann
<mailto:dorashjd@aol.com>

Hi Ruth Ann,

I have not received your e-mail? I answer everyone who writes to me.
--Dick Lower
<mailto:d.lower@comcast.net>

Hi Ruth,

Yes, I answer all mail... I don't remember geting one from you?
--Dick Lower
<mailto:d.lower@comcast.net>

Hello Dick My name is mark. I would like to know if its ok to write a book on trucking. I have grew up in the trucking world. I want to write one on how it has changed of the years . Maybe hep people understand the meaning of trucking.
--mark Lambeth
<mailto:sheys_daddy@yahoo.com>

Dear Dick
I don't know why my email did not go through to you, so let's try again. My son got a ticket for careless driving. He scrapped a truck in a truck stop. The damage was minimal, front head light area. He returned to Nashville after completing his run and they fired him over the phone. My question is, considering he has less than 6 months driving experience will he be able to get a job? All ads state 18 to 36 mos experience and also he now has 4 points on his cdl license. I am hoping that this was not the kiss of death for him. Just coming out of truck driving school he is at a loss- many applicatins and no response. Any bits of wisdom or ideas would be greatly appreciated.
Let's try this again.
Ruth Ann

--ruth ann
<mailto:dorashjd@aol.com>

Hi Ruth Ann,

You state your son got a ticket for "careless driving"? Or, do you mean "reckless driving"? If he was on private property I don't understand how he even got a ticket.

He would be charged with a company accident...Either way keep trying to get with a company that will take him. They need drivers bad enough so some one should hire him.

He might try putting his application on-line with some one like "Layover.com" That app would be seen by several if not many companies.

Main thing don't give up. Accident should make him a safer driver. There are tons of places where he can place an app.

Just keep doing it!

Let me know how you do--things are really never bad as they seem.

Happy trails!

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:d.lower@comcast.net>

Hi Ruth Ann,

You state your son got a ticket for "careless driving"? Or, do you mean "reckless driving"? If he was on private property I don't understand how he even got a ticket.

He would be charged with a company accident...Either way keep trying to get with a company that will take him. They need drivers bad enough so some one should hire him.

He might try putting his application on-line with some one like "Layover.com" That app would be seen by several if not many companies.

Main thing don't give up. Accident should make him a safer driver. There are tons of places where he can place an app.

Just keep doing it!

Let me know how you do--things are really never bad as they seem.

Happy trails!

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:d.lower@comcast.net>

Hello Mark,

You bet it is a good idea to write your book about trucking. Especially since you grew up in the trucking world.

Let me know when you get it done as I would want to read it.

Happy trails.

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<mailto:d.lower@comcast.net>

Dear Dick,
Glad to say my son got a job with a truck line that owns the one he got fired from. Go figure!
Just to correct myself on the info I originally gave you, it was a rest stop that he was in on the truck accident. Thank you for the encouraging word and wisdom. You all know how a mother worries, even when her child is an adult.
Take care and keep your fingers crossed that this is the job of his life time. Sincerely Ruth Ann
--Ruth Ann
<mailto:dorashjd@aol.com>

Dear Mother Ruth,

You do not need to apologize as to your concern. It is good to have mothers. He will do fine as I stated it only will make him a safer driver because that is what experience is all about.

Thanks for letting me know how things turned out.

Happy trails to you and your son.

Dick Lower
www.worldoftruckdriver.com

--Dick Lower
<mailto:dicklower@comcast.net>

Hello dick I want to know what is the right rpm to sift my gears in a semi tuck
--big E
<mailto:andron4christ@hotmail.com>

Hello Big E,

What is the right rpm to shift gears in a semi truck??

I can't answer your question..

It depends on engine and transmission you are running...

Happy trails,

Dick Lower
--Dick Lower
<http://www.worldoftruckdriver.com>