I agree - this should have never been tossed out there 'trashing' Panther. Heck, I worked with them, had some problems and some good things, worked for other companies on here to and the same goes for them - that is the way this and most industries are.
However, if you started working for someone, driving in this case, without a contract that is your fault your mistake and anything that happens to you - well, you are to blame.
Sorry if that is cold - BUT IT IS THE FACT!
I am a company driver and I have everything in writing that I am suppose to be paid for, not be paid for, etc etc.....and ALL drivers should have the same thing. It protect you and the owner of the truck - and in my case it protects me and the company.
LEARN - admit your error, learn from it. It doesn't pay the bills, but, sitting on here blaming others for the biggest mistake (no contract) and not getting paid isn't paying the bills either.