A motor carrier is responsible for operating CMVs that transport hazardous materials, property, or passengers and is also involved in transportation commerce projects.

The trucking industry is generally regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). Thanks to its regulations, it can promote a safer driving environment for everyone on the road.

If you’re a motor carrier, you must prioritize safety compliance to ensure you meet passenger, property, and hazardous materials regulations. This not only promotes a safer experience for the drivers but also protects the integrity of your trucking company as a whole.

Learn how to ensure compliance as a motor carrier through proper vehicle maintenance and inspections below!

About the Regulations Set by the FMCSA and the CVSA

You must consider two main resources if you want to maintain compliance: Regulations set by the FMCSA and the CVSA. The FMCSA compliance manual, for example, gives you enough resources to ensure the improvement of your fleet at any time.

On the other hand, we have the CVSA, which gave us the “Compliance, Safety, Accountability” (CSA) program.

Failing to comply with these regulations can lead to the suspension of your operating authority.

Some of the common motor carrier compliance safety issues include:

  • Hours of Service (HOS)
  • Driver Files
  • Audits of Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs)
  • Audits of Driver HOS
  • Maintenance Records
  • Compliance with Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs
  • Compliance with Other FMCSA Regulations
  • Training

Why Ensuring Compliance Is Crucial for Your Business

Whether you’re responsible for transporting passengers, goods, or hazardous materials across the country, you must ensure the safety of the entire operation.

Considering the long driving times and types of cargo you may have to transport, many things can go wrong. If you were to get a surprise inspection, and the law enforcement agent found any non-compliance problems, your business would be at risk.

However, that’s only one problem. When you don’t properly inspect your vehicles, you’re exposing yourself to potential accidents on the road.

The slightest problem with your truck can lead to a serious problem that can affect others. Not only is that fatal for your business, but it will also cause many financial losses.

You must address all your compliance needs as soon as possible. To make things easier, consider getting inspection software. It’ll promote the well-being of your drivers, your trucks, and everyone else on the road.

Must Read: Truck Inspection Checklists and Apps for Compliance and Efficiency

Bottom Line – Ensure Proper Safety When Operating Commercial Vehicles

Compliance can be a tough topic to cover, especially for commercial motor vehicles. Maintaining compliance requires accurate record-keeping, thorough inspections, and proactive measures.

Not only is compliance essential to meet legal requirements, but it’s also the best measure you can take to ensure all your vehicles are safe to drive and that you’re working with trained drivers.

Record360 can help you demonstrate compliance through its accurate reporting features. You can easily keep your vehicle maintenance records in a safe and easy-to-navigate platform, allowing you to keep track of pending issues, driver qualifications, and more.

Ensure DOT compliance with the right tools, and discover the peace of mind that comes with it. Contact Record360 today.