The honeymoon is over!

My dispatcher finally pissed me off!  Every day since my last home time, I have spent more time sitting than driving, Two days ago he tried to get me to do a back to back sleeper break and I took my 34 instead as you all know and today......it was either his way or I turn in my truck; oh hell no!

Let me get you updated.  I ended my 34 restart and was sent to Louisville, KY, a few hours away from my current location.  I arrived at 9 AM, was backed into the dock at 10 AM.  This load was suppose to be ready at 11 as it was going to Delaware, OH, due at 5 PM.  This run is 250 miles and driving 55 miles per hour, I need to be on the road ASAP.  I was not loaded until 1:30!  I am already late.......augh!

I arrived at 7 PM and was told that since I missed my appointment, I would have to sit until they had a door for me.......and they sure did, at 7 AM this morning!  I didn't get out of there until 10:30.  I was instructed to hit the Flying J for a swap, the driver arriving at 6 PM and due at the receiver at 6 AM, 400 miles away. WHAT!  I sent in a message stating that I could not safely deliver the load as I have been awake for only three hours and could not sleep for another 8.  I have hours now, let me run with something!

He came back with.......take it or turn in your truck!

I was on the phone in seconds!  I called my recruiter, who transferred me to Safety, who transferred me to the dispatcher's supervisor.  All three men agreed that it would not be a safe trip as I would be awake 24 hours and the supervisor told the dispatcher to see if we would find me another load since I still had time on my clock.  The midnight run was pulled, I was given a better load with an additional 100 miles that is due tomorrow at 1 AM.  Contacted the client, I can arrive early and stop my clock early for hopes of an early load the AM.

Now my virtual truckers, I am contemplating asking for a new dispatcher, my first time ever.  I don't know if going over his head will help me or hurt me but no one threatens me with dismissal if I don't feel safe driving.  Not only that, all my loads have been on time (except those few that were out of my hands), I have no violations, and a good safety record.......plus got my MPG up!  You just don't toss a good driver like that out the door.

I will talk to my recruiter about it tomorrow...