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Preparing for a DOT Compliance Audit
A DOT audit can be a major milestone for any trucking company since federal and state transportation agencies may check safety documents, driver credentials, vehicle maintenance, hours-of-service paperwork, drug and alcohol test results, accidents, and other elements of compliance. Being prepared will help you detect the lack of documentation before you incur any violation. It…
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How Long Should Truck Drivers Keep Compliance Records?
Compliance Record Keeping is an essential task within the trucking business sector. Truck drivers and owner operators as well as motor carriers are supposed to maintain certain records that will show that the relevant regulations regarding safety, taxes, hours of service, inspection of vehicles, and operation have been adhered to. The period for which the…
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What Records Should Owner-Operators Keep?
Owner-operators need to have proper record keeping in order to effectively manage a compliant and profitable business venture. The records that one should maintain are important in showing compliance to the FMCSA rules, tax liabilities, cost of operation, vehicle maintenance, driver performance, and income earned from the business. Good documentation will also ensure that the…
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Cargo Securement Rules Every Driver Should Know
The proper securing of the cargo in a freight trailer is one of the most vital roles in commercial trucking. It means that besides loading the trailer correctly, the freight must be properly restrained, immobilized, and secured to prevent movement, spillage, blowing off, or falling from the trailer while being transported. In the case of…
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Lighting and Reflector Compliance Guide
Proper lighting and reflector compliance is an important aspect of commercial vehicle safety. Commercial vehicles such as trucks, trailers, buses, and other commercial motor vehicles operate under varying visibility circumstances, meaning that proper lamps and reflectors are vital for the visibility of these vehicles on highways. The federal government has set standards regarding the placement,…
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Brake Inspection Requirements Explained
Being able to stop safely is as essential as how quickly the vehicle can accelerate. It does not matter whether you drive a private car or handle a fleet, it is imperative that you are knowledgeable regarding the standards for conducting a brake check. The following discussion provides all the details that you have to…
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Tire Safety Compliance for Commercial Trucks
It takes more than simply having mapped routes and skilled drivers in order to keep the fleet on the road and profitable. Tire safety compliance is always at the very core of any effective transportation business. Fleet managers and owner-operators can get into trouble by disregarding DOT and FMCSA tire regulations, as OOS notices, large…
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What Equipment Is Required by DOT?
It seems that keeping up with DOT and FMCSA guidelines is akin to shooting a moving target. Whether you are dealing with an expanding commercial vehicle fleet or work independently as an owner operator, passing a roadside inspection begins by ensuring you have the right safety equipment. According to 49 CFR 393.95, CMVs are required…