The snow is flying, the roads are icy and you think it is too unsafe to drive. Your company wants that load delivered yesterday. What can you do? Regulations say that you should not operate a commercial motor vehicle if it is unsafe for you to do so. That could mean you are too tired, the vehicle itself is unsafe or the conditions are unsafe. What can happen if you refuse? Can you be fired? Technically, no but in reality maybe. Keep in mind that any company that would want you to drive if you think it is unsafe is no place I would want to work. To their credit, most places I hear about leave that decision up to the driver. Anytime you are parking because of weather you should document this in writing. If you send a message on your device in the truck take a picture of the message. Keep all records. You know what kind of company you work for. If you are fired or any action is taken against you then you should immediately call HR at your company. Also, file for unemployment and file a complaint with OSHA. This is where all your documentation comes in handy. You will be able to prove what what said at the time. You can also get the historic weather conditions online. Remember, always get everything in writing. Your job may depend on it.
See you on the road!
1 Comment
Jared F
1/23/2019 07:09:17 pm
You can absolutely refuse to move in unsafe weather. If the company says you have to start driving politely explain that you dont feel safe doing so, and record and document any phone calls and messages sent to you, while working your way up the chain of command until you get the answer you want.
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AuthorHi! Welcome. I'm Mark and I've been a professional truck driver for over 33 years, the last 19 years at the same company. It is time that drivers got paid for every minute that we work and we are treated like the licensed professionals we are. Archives
February 2022
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