Expert Insights on DOT Compliance
In-depth analysis, regulatory updates, and practical compliance guidance from transportation attorneys and industry experts.
SCOTUS opens the door for truckers to sue over mislabeled CBD products
On April 2, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a 5-4 decision in Medical Marijuana, Inc. v. Horn, an important case with implications for regulated trucking. The Court ruled that a commercial truck driver could seek treble damages under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) for financial losses (i.e., being out of a job) resulting from a mislabeled CBD product that led to a positive drug test and his termination.NEW Supreme Court ruling on CBD & truckers | What drivers n
Brandon Wiseman
Changes in store for CDL medical examiner certification process
Learn how FMCSA’s Medical Examiner’s Certification Integration Rule will impact fleets, drivers, and compliance procedures when it takes eff
Brandon Wiseman
Trump nominates Derek Barrs as FMCSA Administrator
Just a few short weeks after announcing the appointment of Adrienne Camire as FMCSA's Acting Administrator, the Trump Administration has just announced the nomination of Derek Barrs to head the agency. Barrs formerly served as the Chief of the Florida Highway Patrol and was more recently appointed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to the Flagler County School Board. Barrs is also a member of the American Trucking Associations' Law Enforcement Advisory Board as well as the Florida Trucking Associa
Brandon Wiseman
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
Compliance Myth: "Not for hire" means not regulated
One of the more common misunderstandings in the trucking industry is the belief that displaying “Not for Hire” on a truck somehow exempts it from federal or state motor carrier safety regulations. This myth has led many private carriers—those that transport their own goods rather than hauling freight for others—to operate under the false assumption they are not subject to regulatory oversight. The truth, however, is that the applicability of the vast majority of FMCSA and related state regulatio
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
Navigating the Overlap: Federal vs. State Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
I. IntroductionThe regulation of motor carriers in the United States is a complex system involving both federal and state oversight. While the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) establish nationwide safety standards for commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) operating in interstate commerce, individual states have the authority to regulate intrastate motor carriers within their borders. This dual regulatory structure often creates challenges for carriers trying to maintain compliance ac
Brandon Wiseman
Top 5 Legal Issues Impacting Fleets in 2025: Insights from Trucksafe LIVE! Ep. 45
The trucking industry will face significant legal and regulatory challenges in 2025, with developments that could reshape the landscape for motor carriers, brokers, and owner-operators. In the latest episode of Trucksafe LIVE!, hosts Brandon Wiseman and Jerad Childress sat down with Tyler Biddle, an attorney with Childress Law, to discuss the five most pressing legal issues impacting fleets this year. Catch the replay below or keep reading for a breakdown of the episode!Trucksafe LIVE! | Ep. 45
FMCSA Regulatory Update: Key Takeaways from the Florida Trucking Association Safety Summit
On February 20, 2025, Trucksafe president Brandon Wiseman presented an FMCSA Regulatory Update at the Florida Trucking Association’s Safety Summit in Tampa. The presentation provided an overview of recent and upcoming regulatory developments, enforcement trends, and compliance considerations for the trucking industry. Below is a summary of the key topics discussed.Download the slides from Brandon's presentation below:FMCSA Enforcement SummaryFMCSA enforcement activity remains robust, with 2.9 mi
Never Miss an Update
Get in-depth DOT compliance articles and breaking regulatory news delivered right to your inbox
Join thousands of safety professionals staying informed on DOT compliance