02 August 2016

Topic 15542 | Page 1

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The Captain's Comment
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This date marks, what I consider, a major event in my life. Classes are finished, and it's time for me to test for my CDLs. I've always wanted to drive a truck and see the country. I have always wanted to leave my home and head in one direction to see where I ended up when my fuel tank finally ran dry. This is my way to finally be free. Yeah, I will probably make a lot more money than what I'm making right now, and probably more than I've ever made, but I'm not really doing it for the money. I'm only 35 and I'm ready for the downhill part of my life. I'm ready for my "semi" retirement. You might think that I'm a little young for that, but it's the truth. I'm tired of petty drama in the workplace. A lot has taken place in my life the last 6 years. I've lost quite a bit. I've lost those closest to me. I'm still in the process of losing someone close to me. I'm tired of feeling trapped where I am. I think about these things that I've just typed out, and it seems to me that I'm just trying to run away, but I really don't have anything to run away from anymore. I have nothing to tie me down anymore, and I can finally stretch my wings and go. I finally get the chance to see and experience all of the things that I've wanted to experience my entire life.

"If" I pass my CDLs, I will start my orientation with Comcar (CT Transportation) driving flatbeds that following Monday. The 8th. I love driving this truck. From the moment that I got into the driver's seat, 8 weeks ago, I fell in love with the feeling of controlling this awesome piece of machinery. It feels natural to me and when I'm not driving, I feel a pull to get back into the truck as soon as possible. I am terribly excited to get out there. Experience the very same things that you all have posted on this site. The good AND the bad.

I would just like to say thank you. To all of the experienced, and rookie drivers who have taken the time to fill my head with wonder these last several months. All the knowledge that I have taken from you has allowed me to even help my fellow classmates from time to time. I've listened to them talk about which companies are better. Who should they apply to? Who pays better? Which type of trucks do they want to drive? I really could care less. I'm getting out there on the road. I'm making money, however much it may be. I'm going to get to sweat a little, given that I'm going into flatbed. Again, thank you all for your input on this site. I love the unbiased approach to this industry. I love the good ole boy vibe that you guys put out here. Good luck to you all, and drive safe.

CDL:

Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:

  • Any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, providing the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.
  • Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing another not in excess of 10,000 pounds.
  • Any vehicle, regardless of size, designed to transport 16 or more persons, including the driver.
  • Any vehicle required by federal regulations to be placarded while transporting hazardous materials.

HOS:

Hours Of Service

HOS refers to the logbook hours of service regulations.

OWI:

Operating While Intoxicated

ChickieMonster's Comment
member avatar

Best of luck to you! Remember to breathe, you've got this!

This is by far the coolest job I've ever had, as well as the hardest. I remember questioning all thru school if I was really going to like doing this. Now that I'm out here living the gypsy life, I can't even imagine going back to dead end factory jobs. Matter of fact, I can't imagine doing ANYTHING else!

And kudos to you for going flatbed! It's definitely not for the faint of heart! It'll be the best workout you'll ever get, and it adds a little extra challenge with the load securement.

The Captain's Comment
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Thanks Chickie. I totally agree with the dead end factory jobs. As far as the flatbeds, I'm not afraid of heights, and I'm definitely not afraid of hard work. I like to sweat :P If I fail, it will probably be the pre-trip. I'm pretty sure that I got it down, but from day one, I hated getting out there and doing that. All I wanted to do was drive that truck lol. However, I do realize the importance of it. Can't keep moving if my truck keeps breaking down. And I'm definitely not in the business of causing accidents. Maybe we'll cross paths one day. You can show me all the good eating spots. Good luck out there and be careful

Navy Vet's Comment
member avatar

Congrats man, let us all know how it goes. I am interested in more info on Comcar too!

Jaguwar's Comment
member avatar

Hey man

THE Captain? Really? That's cute! (and I mean that with a grin, just joshin' ya) Seriously though, I feel ya. While you can't run away from your troubles, sometimes going away is the way back to yourself. I hope you find what you need. And yeah, you're young, but there's a certain maturity in realizing nothing is guaranteed, or forever. Best of luck and happy trails.

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