Expert Insights on DOT Compliance
In-depth analysis, regulatory updates, and practical compliance guidance from transportation attorneys and industry experts.
DOT Compliance for Small vs. Large Fleets
In the U.S. trucking industry, fleet managers, regardless of fleet size, face a myriad of challenges to ensure their business remains compliant with USDOT regulations. However, the scope and scale of these challenges can differ significantly depending on the size and complexity of the fleet. In this article, we'll explore the key differences in DOT compliance between small and large fleets, identify common challenges, and provide practical strategies for each to stay compliant. The Basics of DOT
Brandon Wiseman
What You Need to Know About the Clearinghouse II Roll Out by FMCSA
In an effort to close gaps in federal drug & alcohol testing regulations, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will soon roll out Clearinghouse Phase II—a significant change to the manner in which driver drug & alcohol violation data is accessed and utilized by State Driver's Licensing Agencies (SDLAs). BIG changes in store for the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse!Effective November 18, 2024, FMCSA, the federal agency charged with regulating the operation of commercial drivers an
Brandon Wiseman
Trucksafe joins CCJ to discuss impact of marijuana rescheduling for trucking
Trucksafe’s Brandon Wiseman recently joined CCJ’s 10-44 podcast to discuss how the Drug Enforcement Administration’s proposal to reschedule marijuana as a Schedule III drug could impact DOT drug testing. Check out the article here or the video below!
Trucksafe's Brandon Wiseman featured by FleetOwner in article on 2024 regulatory outlook
Trucksafe's president Brandon Wiseman joined FleetOwner magazine for a two-part series on upcoming rulemaking activities likely to impact regulated fleets in 2024. In the article, Wiseman highlights the following issues and how they could affect motor carriers this year: • Revisions to Safety Measurement System (CSA scores) • Changes to safety rating methodology • Expansion of Crash Preventability Determination Program • DataQs independent appeals board • New entrant knowledge exam • Oral fluid
2023 regulatory year-in-review & 2024 outlook
2023 was a big year for trucking and a fairly busy one for regulators. We saw a lot of new proposed rule changes from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Adminstration (FMCSA), particularly around their various enforcement mechanisms like safety ratings and CSA scores. With 2023 coming to a close, we're taking a look back at the most significant DOT-related regulatory initiaves from the past year and looking forward to what's in store for next year. 2023 Year In ReviewAs noted, the FMCSA was fairly
Brandon Wiseman
5 things fleets can do today to significantly reduce risk
In addition to operational concerns, regulated trucking companies are tasked with navigating a complex web of responsibilities, with the safety of their drivers, cargo, and the motoring public firmly at the core. And it's no secret that fleets have a big target on their back when things go sideways. The consequences of non-compliance and unsafe operations are severe, with fleet-wide shutdowns and multi-million dollar jury verdicts becoming increasingly common. Fortunately, there are ways to sign
Brandon Wiseman
Controlling driver log falsifications
In a recent episode of our Trucksafe LIVE! podcast, we tackled the issue of commercial driver log falsification. What exactly are false logs? Log falsification is a misrepresentation of a commercial driver's duty status or driving time on their daily record of duty status. False logs can be deliberate or unintentional. Attempts to conceal substantive hours-of-service violations by mis-logging time are frequent contributors to log falsifications. Misuse of personal conveyance status, mischaracter
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA to enhance DataQs appeal process
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has plans to overhaul its DataQs system to accommodate deeper levels of appeal, according to a recent notice from the agency. "Stakeholders from industry, CMV drivers, and the public have expressed concerns regarding the transparency and uniformity of addressing Requests for Data Review (RDRs), and specifically, RDR Reconsiderations. Stakeholders note that program offices do not have a uniform process for initial RDR reviews or for handling
Brandon Wiseman
Understanding roadside inspection reports
If you or your commercial driver have been stopped for a roadside inspection, it’s likely you’ve received a Driver/Vehicle Examination Report (DVER), also known as a roadside inspection report. These DVERs are standardized reports prepared by law enforcement following a commercial vehicle and/or driver inspection, which detail the level of inspection performed and any violations discovered. The reports are important for many reasons, so we will break them down line by line in this article. Downl
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