The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) enforces strict regulations to ensure safety on the roads. Non-compliance can lead to costly fines, operational disruptions, and an increased risk of accidents. Understanding the most common DOT violations is key to maintaining compliance and keeping your fleet running efficiently.
HOS regulations, set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), govern how long drivers can operate a commercial vehicle before taking mandatory breaks. Common violations include:
Exceeding daily driving limits
Failing to take required rest breaks
Not using or improperly using an electronic logging device (ELD)
To stay compliant, carriers should ensure all drivers use FMCSA-approved ELDs and regularly review their logs. More information on HOS regulations can be found on the FMCSA website.
DOT requires regular inspections and proper maintenance of commercial vehicles. Frequent violations include:
Faulty brakes
Defective lights
Worn-out tires
Oil and fluid leaks
Routine inspections and preventive maintenance programs can reduce the risk of these violations. Carriers should adhere to the DOT’s Periodic Inspection Standards to ensure compliance. Learn more about maintenance requirements from the DOT guidelines.
A significant portion of violations come from improper driver documentation and hiring practices, including:
Incomplete driver qualification files
Expired commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs)
Failing drug and alcohol testing requirements
Regularly auditing driver qualification files and ensuring compliance with FMCSA regulations can help avoid these violations. Check out the FMCSA’s Driver Qualification Requirements for more details.
Improperly secured cargo can lead to accidents, rollovers, and costly citations. Some common cargo-related violations are:
Failing to use proper tie-downs
Overloading or unbalanced loads
Not following hazardous material (HAZMAT) securement rules
Reviewing FMCSA’s Cargo Securement Rules and training drivers on proper loading techniques can prevent such violations.
DOT requires strict compliance with drug and alcohol testing for commercial drivers. Frequent violations include:
Failure to conduct pre-employment drug testing
Not maintaining random testing programs
Allowing drivers to operate after a failed drug test
For more information, review the DOT’s Drug & Alcohol Testing Program.
Accurate recordkeeping is essential for DOT compliance. Common mistakes include:
Incomplete or missing logs
Falsified records
Not maintaining supporting documents
Implementing a robust compliance management system and conducting routine audits can help minimize these violations.
Drivers must maintain an up-to-date medical certificate to operate commercial vehicles. Common issues include:
Expired medical certificates
Not reporting medical conditions that affect driving
Failure to carry proper documentation
Visit the FMCSA’s Medical Requirements Page for the latest guidelines on medical certification.
Staying ahead of DOT regulations requires a proactive approach, including:
Regular driver training
Frequent vehicle inspections
Comprehensive compliance audits
Investing in compliance management technology
Understanding and preventing common DOT violations can save your company thousands of dollars in fines, protect your reputation, and enhance road safety. If your organization needs help navigating DOT compliance, Sentry Road offers expert solutions to keep your operations running smoothly. Contact us today to learn how we can assist with regulatory compliance, training, and more.