Expert Insights on DOT Compliance
In-depth analysis, regulatory updates, and practical compliance guidance from transportation attorneys and industry experts.
Understanding FMCSA's Oilfield Exemptions
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) under 49 CFR 395.1(d) provide specific exemptions tailored for oilfield operations, commonly referred to as the "oilfield exemptions." These exemptions recognize the unique demands of the oil and gas industry and offer flexibility to drivers engaged in particular oilfield activities. This article delves into the two primary exemptions, detailing their applicability, offering practical usage tips, and highlighting potential pitfalls to avoid.U
Brandon Wiseman
Drug & alcohol testing for student drivers
The first foray into trucking for many commercial drivers is some type of truck driving or CDL school. These institutions provide a valuable service and mission-critical training to these prospective drivers, helping to ensure they are equipped with the foundational knowledge and skills to safely operate large trucks and buses. CDL schools took on an even more prominent role in the industry with the Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) rules that took effect in 2022. One question you'll occasional
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA again declines to tackle double brokerage
In a notice to be published in the Federal Register in the next couple of days, the FMCSA issued its "final guidance" on its regulatory definitions of the terms "broker" and "bona fide agent." This final guidance comes on the heels of the agency's "interim guidance" on this same topic, which it published in November of 2022 and which we discussed in detail in this article. The FMCSA's brokerage guidance is a response to Congress' mandate in its Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Spec
Brandon Wiseman
Applicability of federal motor carrier regulations to passenger operations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the federal agency charged with regulating the interstate operation of commercial motor vehicles. It does so through its promulgation and enforcement of its Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) in title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 390-399. The manner in which the FMCSA regulates property carriers differs from the way it regulates passenger carriers. As addressed in a prior article, the applicability of the F
Brandon WisemanNever Miss an Update
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