Expert Insights on DOT Compliance
In-depth analysis, regulatory updates, and practical compliance guidance from transportation attorneys and industry experts.
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
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
FMCSA proposes revisions to various CDL processes
FMCSA is proposing several changes to its commercial driver's license (CDL) program to "enhance the flexibility and efficiency of the CDL program," according to a notice published in the Federal Register. The agency says it plans to remove "certain regulatory restrictions to allow applicants to obtain a CDL and be productively employed as a CMV driver in less time than it currently takes, without compromising safety." FMCSA believes the proposal will "further address CMV driver shortages, enhanc
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA proposing to remove over 15,000 medical examiners from National Registry
FMCSA is proposing to remove over 15,000 medical examiners from its National Registry of Medical Examiners, according to a notice to be published in the Federal Register soon.In its notice, the FMCSA explains these examiners have not set up accounts through login.gov, the government-run multi-factor authentication site, and therefore are unable to "fulfill regulatory requirements such as reporting results of physical qualification examinations performed on commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers,
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA Administrator to resign Jan. 26th
FMCSA Administrator Robin Hutcheson will be resigning from her post effective January 26, 2024. The reasons for her departure are not clear. Sue Lawless, FMCSA's recently appointed Chief Safety Officer and Assistant Administrator, is likely to serve as the agency's Acting Administrator.In a statement, Hutcheson said, “It has been the most profound honor to serve in the Biden-Harris Administration, and I am grateful to President Biden for appointing me to these roles. I thank Secretary Buttigieg
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