Expert Insights on DOT Compliance
In-depth analysis, regulatory updates, and practical compliance guidance from transportation attorneys and industry experts.
Is your fleet audit ready?
For trucking companies, regulatory compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about ensuring the safety of drivers, protecting the public, and maintaining the ability to operate efficiently. One of the most significant regulatory hurdles a motor carrier can face is an FMCSA compliance review. Whether it’s a new entrant safety audit, a focused review, or a full-scale compliance investigation, being prepared is crucial to keeping your fleet on the road and in good standing with regulators.Und
Brandon Wiseman
Adrienne Camire appointed as new FMCSA Acting Administrator
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has appointed Adrienne Camire as the new Deputy Administrator and Acting Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). In this role, Ms. Camire will oversee FMCSA’s mission to enhance commercial motor vehicle safety, improve the efficiency of the nation’s freight and passenger transportation systems, and implement regulatory oversight.Unlike a Senate-confirmed Administrator, an Acting Administrator serves in a temporary ca
Brandon Wiseman
Dispelling 5 common DOT compliance myths
Achieving DOT compliance can be tricky. Even seasoned safety professionals occasionally fall prey to some regulatory assumptions that aren’t quite true. Unfortunately, these misconceptions can lead to costly violations, increased exposure, and unnecessary headaches for trucking companies and their drivers.At Trucksafe, we help motor carriers navigate the complex web of federal and state safety regulations. In this article, we’ll debunk five of the most common DOT compliance myths to help you sta
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA pushing forward with Safety Measurement System (SMS) changes in light of public comments
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has released its latest plans to update the Safety Measurement System (SMS) as part of its ongoing efforts to refine how motor carriers are prioritized for safety interventions. Following its latest public comment period after releasing its original February 2023 proposal, the agency's updates reflect significant enhancements and stakeholder contributions. This article summarizes the changes and their implications for motor carriers going f
Brandon Wiseman
What should fleets expect with a Republican Administration in 2025?
As the U.S. heads toward a presidential transition from a Democrat to a Republican administration in January 2025, fleet managers and industry leaders are preparing yet again for potential shifts in regulatory focus. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), in particular, plays a crucial role in shaping the trucking industry, affecting compliance, safety, and operational standards for motor carriers nationwide. And like other federal agencies, the FMCSA and its policies are heavi
Brandon Wiseman
Understanding FMCSA Changes and Compliance Trends: Insights from Jack Van Steenburg
In Episode 43 of the Trucksafe LIVE! podcast, host Brandon Wiseman discussed major FMCSA updates, the agency's operational focus, and regulatory outlook with special guest Jack Van Steenburg, former Chief Safety Officer for the FMCSA and an expert in commercial motor vehicle safety compliance. This episode provided a deep dive into upcoming changes impacting fleet operations and the trucking industry as a whole, especially in light of the 2024 U.S. election, which may lead to significant shifts
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
How drivers return to duty following a drug or alcohol violation
As of February 2024, there are over 163,000 CDL drivers in so-called “prohibited status” in the FMCSA’s Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse, meaning they are prohibited from operating commercial vehicles due to a drug or alcohol violation. Of those 163,000+ drivers, 76% have not even started the regulatory process through which they could get back to driving. That process, known as return-to-duty (RTD), is meant to rehabilitate drivers through evaluation, education, and follow-up testing. It’s what we’
Brandon Wiseman
Trucksafe's Wiseman discusses rule changes at FreightWaves event
Trucksafe's president Brandon Wiseman recently presented at FreightWave's Small Fleet & Owner Operator Summit on upcoming FMCSA rulemaking initiatives and what they could mean for fleets and drivers. Topics discussed: • Speed limiters • Safety ratings • CSA scores • FMCSA staffingCatch the replay below! About Trucksafe Consulting, LLC: Trucksafe Consulting is a full-service DOT regulatory compliance consulting and training service. We help carriers develop, implement, and improve their safety p
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