Profile For Jim R.

I am a new driver, three months now on my own as a solo driver. This past week I was dispatched on a load going across I 80 to Salt Lake City then north on I 84 to northern Oregon. That part of the country was hit by a huge winter storm. I have little driving experience in winter conditions and zero experience driving in mountains with snow and ice. I went as far as Laramie Wyoming, then told my FM that I didn't feel safe going any further. I was not only fearful for my own safety but the safety of others as well due to my inexperience. I also told my FM that I wanted to get some training on driving in winter conditions, especially in the mountains. In my mind going down several miles of 6% grade hills snow covered isn't the time to wonder if a particular driving technique is the right one if things start to go south. Long story short, my FM did get my load re powered and I got out of there. My question is, did I over react, or make the right call ? I'm sitting home now at my FM's direction waiting on him to get me with someone for the additional training I asked for. In talking to my FM this morning, my gut is telling me that I may have messed in my nest. I'm really at his mercy now, my tractor is back at the company yard and I'm home.

I drove for a Foodservice company which is now US Foods 25 years ago. I pulled everything we had, 28 ft, 42 ft and doubles for five years. I quit driving just before the CDL became mandatory. I've came back to driving and I'm working for a major carrier based out of Missouri running OTR, I have all my endorsements including hazmat. My question is, can I use my prior experience combined with my current experience should I decide to talk to a carrier that runs either local, regional or dedicated. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks

I haven't driven for 25 years, and now I'm really considering starting a new driving career. I'm going to have to start all over with school and licensing, that's no big deal. I'm looking at starting with Swift after school, getting a couple three yrs of OTR experience. Now, having said that. I would appreciate any advice or insight from the veterans on beginning driving career all over.