Question
Ok. I know I'm gonna receive alot of flack from this post, but I need to make it.
I made a huge mistake while I was on vacation back in July, and tested positive for marijuana in August. I was promptly let go from swift for this, and was told I could never rehire with them.
I have gone thru a 12 session program thru swifts EAP. I am very serious about returning to trucking, and am also very concerned about what I will be facing when I start applying for jobs.
I worked for swift for a little over two years, and was regarded in my home terminal as one of the harder runners.
I know that there are alot of drivers out there that have had worse problems in their past and are still driving. My feeling (which doesn't make a differance to anyone but me) is that if a person is willing to help themselves and recognize they have problem, should be given the benefit of the doubt. I did not use when I was working or even (except for that time on vacation this year) while I was employed by swift. I love this job, and cannot see myself giving it up. My intention is to stay clean and sober, just so y'all know.
I hope that I can get some positive feedback on this.
Answer
While I could read you the riot act for your "mistake" I shall refrain and just say that I sincerely hope you learned your lesson.
As far as what you need to do and can expect.
1. You need to be up front about your drug history. Swift will be reporting your positive results to any and all potential employers so there is no point in trying to hide it. Be sure to tell anyone you talk to about completing a substanc eabuse program and be prepared to send copies of your completion paperwork or contact info so they can verify your attendence and completion.
2. Expect many doors to be shut to you even though you attended the program. You can find a job though it may not be exactly what you want. All you can do is start putting in applications. Just do not make matters worse and run for some outlaw company.
3. When you do return to work expect to be under a microscope. Any and every mistake you may make will be scrutinized. Do your best to avoid any accidents, log book /HOS violations, traffic violations, etc. Also fully expect to be taking lots of drug tests.
4. Keep your nose totally clean for the next several years and you can pretty much put this totally behind you, but it will take time and a lot of effort on your part. If you ever test positive again for drugs or alcohol you can pretty much kiss driving good-bye.
Answer
Thanks for your reply uturn.
First want to say that I fully intend to be truthful and that agree with all you said. I am planning on looking into some of the major carriers, such as Sunstate, Knight, LCT etc. What chance do you think I have with companies such as these?
Answer
It is hard to say what your overall chances are with any company as they all have a slightly different view on such things.
Answer
Weekknees;
Your positive drug test will also be on your DAC! I would recomend that you contact DAC Services and submitt your rehab records for attachment to your report, along with a very sincer letter from you stating your remorse for your actions.
You are allowed to attach statments and records to your DAC report. You might just get a chance in a million to dirve a truck again.
Catch you on the flip!
Answer
I smoked some pot once but I did not inhale.